When it comes to choosing your storage, you must first determine which option is the best choice for you for storing your goods.  We have provided some general information on outdoor storage units, indoor storage units, and drive up storage units so you can figure out which best suits your needs.

OUTDOOR STORAGE UNIT:

• Usually the cheapest option for storage.
• Generally the size of a parking space.
• This is generally used to store RV’s, work trucks, boats, seasonal items.
• There may be electrical hookups for recreational vehicles available, as well as sanitary stations for toilets.
• Only good if your items are not temperature sensitive, and don’t need to be stored in a climate controlled storage facility.
• Security is minimal, fences, gates, but anyone inside the storage can have access to your items.

INDOOR STORAGE UNIT:

• Generally the most expensive option, but you do get the highest level of service with this option.
• Stored inside a building structure, so not outdoor storage unit.
• Sometimes are inside elevator units if not all on main level.
• Can be climate controlled storage unit, or non-climate controlled storage unit.
• Usually a variety of sizes to choose from, can range from 10x5x8, 10x10x8, 10x15x8, 10x20x8, or 10x30x8 is generally standard size units.
• Usually need dollies for easiest access inside and outside of unit (most storage facilities will have carts to use).
• Good for electronics, antiques, artwork, furniture, other household goods, etc.
• Most secure option, and well lit up areas to access units.
• May have restrictions on access-hours, and days depending on facility.

DRIVE UP STORAGE UNIT:

• Usually mid range on pricing, not the cheapest, not the most expensive option to choose from.
• Most feature roll up door.
• Can pull the vehicle right up to, this is very convenient for loading and unloading vehicles.
• Can come with climate controlled storage options depending on the storage facility.
• Most commonly used amongst customers.
• Can store equipment, cars, household goods, tools, appliances, supplies, business stock or inventory, etc.
• Companies that need stock but have no warehouse can utilize this type of storage and expand and contract as needed (flexible).

Remember when choosing your storage facility, there are a few options you can choose from, depending on what your needs are.  Check with your facility, see what their legal terms are, access times in and out, security measures, insurance options, and liability of the facility.  Get everything in writing, and if you’re not sure if an item should or should not be stored, don’t forget to check with the United States Department of Transportation, Hazardous Material Information Center (HMIX) at 1-800-467-4922.