Self-storage Costs.

Your actual rental costs for self-storage will vary from provider to provider and, as you might expect, costs will rise according to the volume of space you need. Self-storage is a blooming industry and as more companies enter the market, you'll find that costs become more competitive and there will be more special offers and discounts available to you.

The majority of self-storage providers will require a deposit before you can rent space from them. This deposit should be refundable when you leave, although you will forfeit part or all of it if you do not meet the exit conditions. Basic rental costs cover the space you hire and associated costs such as rates, lighting, basic environmental controls, insurance and security. If you have unusual or non-standard needs, you might find that you'll incur extra costs for these services, some examples of which follow:

Insurance
Your chosen self-storage facility may have basic insurance cover or may not have any cover that can be applied to your goods. Some will insist that you take out policies with them or their chosen suppliers or that you give proof of insurance before you rent. If your standard home contents insurance policy doesn't cover self-storage, you'll have to look at either extending it or taking an additional policy elsewhere to insure your goods adequately.

Climate control
If you're looking to store goods or documents that need climate control then you'll probably pay more to secure this option.

Transport and manpower
Although many self-storage providers offer free vehicles to help you move, some do not and you may have to factor in vehicle hire costs to your budget. Most free offers have time constraints and, if you exceed the time set, you'll be liable for mileage and time costs. If you need help with your move, expect to be charged labour costs.

Padlocks
Even if your self-storage provider offers padlocks, you'll have to pay for them. Some companies also insist that you only use the padlocks they provide - although these are more expensive than standard padlocks they are a good option as they offer extra security measures.

You'll probably be offered a variety of ways of paying for your self-storage facility. These can include cash, credit and debit cards, checks, direct debit and pre-payment options. Many self-storage companies prefer a regular direct debit agreement as it guarantees that your payment will be made at a regular date.

Site Map Guide to Self Storage

Last updated: 15 August 2006