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Whether you’re moving, renovating, swapping out your seasonal wardrobe, traveling, or just decluttering the home, sometimes you just need a reliable and secure spot to stash the stuff of yours.
That said, whatever your reason, picking the right storage unit is key.
And in order to help you sort through the options and avoid any regrets, here’s our detailed guide on what to look for.
Figuring Out What You’ll Actually Need: Where to Start?
Before you even start looking at places, get a clear picture of what you’re storing and for how long. This will make all your other choices way easier. Consider the following:
- Type of stuff. Is it furniture, clothes, sports gear, important documents, or electronics?
- How much space you might need. Make a rough guess of how many boxes you’ll have and the size of any big items – like couches or dressers. For a detailed breakdown of standard box sizes and how many you can fit, you can check this: https://getspacestorage.com/boxes-and-prices/.
- How long are you planning to store things. Is this for a quick week, a month, half a year, or more of an open-ended thing? Get a clear and proper picture of what you’re planning to do.
Doing this homework first will save you a ton of time and money by instantly crossing off options that don’t fit the bill.
Security: Your Top Priority
You want your belongings to be safe and sound. So look for a place with a solid security system:
- On-site guards. A facility with 24/7 security personnel is a huge plus. Even a must, mayhaps.
- Video surveillance. The whole property (perimeter, loading zones, and hallways) should be covered by CCTV that actually records. Don’t be shy to ask if it runs all the time and how long they keep the footage.
Climate Control
This’s a big thing for keeping your things in good shape. A standard, non-climate-controlled unit is really only good for stuff like materials or super sturdy furniture you don’t care much about. Climate-controlled units keep a steady temperature (usually between 50F and 70F) and humidity level (around 40-60%).
So, this is a must-have for:
- Clothes, shoes, and furs (to stop moisture and nasty mold).
- Wood furniture (to keep it from warping or cracking).
- Important papers, books, and anything paper-based.
- Electronics and musical instruments (they hate humidity).
- Wine collections or other valuables.
Size, Dimensions
Companies do usually have units in all sizes – from small lockers for a few boxes to giant ones that can fit a whole house. The golden rule is, however, to always get a unit a little bigger than you think you need.
You’ve probably underestimated how much stuff you have, and it’s a huge pain to rent a second tiny unit later. Just be careful about that one.
If you’re looking for a variety of unit sizes to find that exact perfect fit, many facilities offer a wide selection of storage units in Dubai designed for different needs.
Location and Getting There
A conveniently located spot saves you time and hassle, especially if you plan to visit a lot:
- By car. Is it an easy drive? Is there good parking for unloading without a headache?
- By public transport. If you don’t drive, check the bus or train routes.
- Operating hours. Do they offer 24/7 access? This is key if you have a crazy schedule and can only swing by at night.
Rental Terms and Flexibility
Read the rental agreement carefully. Yeah, it’s boring, but do it:
- Lease Term. Do they do month-to-month, or is there a minimum stay? What are the rules for renewing?
- Payment. Is it monthly or do you pay quarterly? Any discounts for long-term rentals?
- Insurance. Is insurance included for theft or damage? If not, can you buy it and what does it cover?
What’s the Real Cost?
Lastly, don’t just jump at the cheapest price. A super low rate often means they’re cutting corners on security, climate, or staff. That said, make sure you know what the advertised price actually includes:
- Any hidden fees (like admin fees or access charges)?
- Is insurance part of the deal?
- Do they provide moving carts or packing supplies?
- Is there a deposit for a key or access card?
Calculate the total cost for the time you plan to stay, including all the add-ons you need.
That’s pretty much all of it.
