Differences Between Long-Term Storage and Short-Term Storage
An article provided by Simply Self Storage
There are two types of mini storage facilities available to choose from: long-term storage and short-term storage. Long-term storage is better for people who are moving away temporarily, have household furniture that cannot fit in their current home, or have antiques or vehicles to store for a long period of time. Short-term storage gives the renter more flexibility and access to their items, but with less amenities and security. Length of contract may be a factor in deciding which is best for you as long-term facilities generally require a fixed lease commitment where a short-term storage unit can be rented on a monthly basis.
Short-term self storage facilities are the most common and most flexible, with these locations renting individual units and allowing the renter to provide their own lock. The renter is generally the only person with access to the contents of the unit, unless the manager has to enter to prevent a hazardous situation. Access is granted at will, with no additional charges, during the mini storage company's open business hours.
Most short-term storage companies offer a few different sizes of rental unit, allowing the renter to only pay for the amount of space they need. You can also choose a pre-set contract length ahead of time or pay monthly as you go. The longer contract terms usually give a significant discount over the month-to-month arrangements, so consider how long you will really need your storage before signing up. If you need more or less space, most self storage facilities will let you adjust the contract accordingly without a penalty. If you are on a monthly agreement, you can usually cancel with only a 30 day notice to the facility manager, making short-term storage a good option for those who move frequently and need flexibility.
If you are moving away for a long period of time or simply have items you know you will not need for a year or more, a long-term storage rental may be a better option. These types of storage facilities generally limit access to the rental units and provide better security for valuable items. The facility manager has more access to the contents of each unit than a short-term storage manager would. This allows them to keep an eye on your belongings while you are away for extended periods of time. Renters who wish to retrieve their items must request authorization from the manager.
Long-term storage facilities may also provide for moving and packing services, organizing and securing your items in the storage unit for you. This allows the facility employees to ensure that everything is adequately protected for long-term storage. Some long-term storage companies offer the option of climate controlled storage units to keep temperature-sensitive items safe. There are a number of factors that can determine whether or not you should pay the extra for climate controlled storage unit, such as the temperature range and humidity in your area, the time of year you will be storing your items, and the length of time the items will be in the storage unit.
Obviously, long-term storage gives you less flexibility than a short-term unit, so the rental contracts will generally require a fixed term of 6 months or more. Longer lease terms will usually give you a discounted rate, so sign up for the longest possible contract if you know you will not need your items sooner.
Some common uses for long-term storage facilities include antique storage or storing household items while away at school. Many facilities also offer long-term boat storage, vehicle storage, or RV storage, so you can park your vehicles there while you are in-between yearly vacations. Often, a long-term mini storage is cheaper than paying parking fees for your extra car, so it pays to look into these vehicle storage options. Many storage facilities require current registration tags or insurance for any vehicles stored on the premises.
Before signing up for any storage rental contract, be sure to thoroughly consider your individual needs. Think about what you will be storing and if there are any special requirements, such as climate control or added security. If your living situation is in flux and unpredictable, flexibility in the contract may be an important factor. For others who are more settled, the amount of security personnel on the premises may be the deciding factor. Both long-term storage and short-term storage have plenty of benefits to offer. The key is figuring out which type of storage is right for you.
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