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Self-storage (the shorthand term for "self-service storage") or "mini storage" is an industry where storage space (such as rooms, lockers, containers, and/or outdoor space) or "storage unit" is rented to tenants, usually on a short-term basis (often monthly). Both individuals and businesses hire self-storage service. Initially, it was a US-based industry but now it exists all around the world. It is estimated that more than 50,000 self-storage facilities exist in the US alone.

The type of storage facility you choose should depend on the type of items you want to store. Choosing the most suitable facility for your items means getting an appropriate level of protection for them at the best price.

Choosing the wrong facility may end up wasting your money without the proper protection for your items and also end up causing damage to the items you might love and cherish.

In this article, we'll share all the ins and outs you need to know when renting a storage unit.

The following are the most common types of storage units available in storage facilities:

Climate-Controlled Self-Storage

Climate-controlled storage has units where the humidity and temperature are monitored and controlled by the storage facility.

The storage company determines the specific degree of the temperature in the units and all the space is enclosed in a structure or building. This facility is suitable for storing items that are affected or damaged by weather conditions.

External weather, either hot or cold cannot affect items in the self-storage unit or determine the temperature inside the unit.

Most climate-controlled facilities only give access to few authorized individuals for the smooth running of the facility. Depending on the facility you opt for, you may have access to your items 24 hours or less in a day.

Non-Climate Controlled Self-Storage

The storage facility does not control or monitor the humidity and temperature of the non-climate-controlled storage space, whereas they are affected by the natural prevailing weather.

The facility can either be cold or warm based on the temperature outside. The quote for this storage facility will be more pocket-friendly as compared to the one for a climate-controlled storage unit. You can hire one such storage facility for items that won't be impacted by the weather conditions.

Portable Container Storage

Moving container companies such as PODS are known for providing portable container storage services. The company delivers your preferred container size in the location you want, your home or business.

After loading the container with items, you contact the company to pick it up and transport it to their warehouse where it is stored. This storage is suitable for items that don't require repeated access and are not affected by climate. For a portable container storage facility, the quote raised by a company will also be cheaper than a normal storage facility.

Information Management Service

This type of storage company collects files at your location (either home or office) and moves them to their climate-controlled facility. These companies only collect and store paper files. Once you request any of your files, the company will deliver them to you.

Information management service companies aren't as common as others. Several businesses now operate a "paperless" system. Such companies prefer cloud storage (digital storage system on the internet) and no longer require the services of paper file storage companies.

The storage size you need depends upon the number of items you want to store. A 2-bedroom's worth of items will require more storage space than a studio's worth of items.

Most storage facilities provide various storage sizes for rent. If you are fine with the storage facility quote, you can choose whatever storage size you want.

Here are 6 of the most common storage sizes to choose from:

• 5x5 (25 ft. 2) - mostly suitable for storing seasonal items
• 5x10 (50 ft2) - suitable for storing a studio or a 1-bedroom's worth of items
• 10x10 (100 ft2) - suitable for storing 2 bedroom's worth of items
• 10x15 (150 ft2) - suitable for storing 3 bedroom's worth of items
• 10x20 (200 ft2) - suitable for storing 4 - 5 bedroom's worth of items
• 10x30 (300 ft2) - suitable for storing 5 - 7 bedroom's worth of items

You can use this storage units size guide to determine the right storage size you need for your home or office items.

In a climate-controlled storage, the temperature and humidity of the entire space is controlled and enclosed within a building. The unit is not exposed to external weather, temperature or moisture triggered by humidity. So, whether it is sunny or snowing outside, the temperature and humidity of the storage is not affected.

Unlike other storage, access to climate-controlled storage is limited to authorized individuals. The entire storage building is often secured and placed under strict monitoring. Climate-controlled storage is mostly suitable for items that are affected by temperature, humidity, and the weather.

Here are some of the key items you should store in a climate-controlled storage:

• Wine
• Antiques
• Collectibles
• Media related items
• Artwork
• Clothing
• Important documents
• Medical supplies and medications
• Photographs
• Musical instruments
• Makeup and toiletries
• Household appliances
• Sports equipment
• Furniture, and
• Electronics etc.

This depends on the storage facility you choose. Some companies operate a 24-hour access, while others operate a 12-hour access or less. Before you opt for any storage company, ask about the hours you can have access to your personal storage unit.

Yes! Storage companies thrive on their ability to secure your items and keep them in good conditions. Most storage companies have security experts, use surveillance cameras, adequate lighting in all surroundings, password access gates, digital surveillance system, password access storage units, and fences etc. to keep intruders away.

Items are also stored in a well-maintained facility to avoid the least dust and debris to keep your items in good conditions always.

Yes! Storage facilities offer insurance. But it's not mandatory to buy from them. You can shop around and buy your insurance from any third-party.

Self-storage insurance protects your items against theft or damage while they are kept in a storage unit at a storage facility. Depending on who your insurer is, the policy you get may cover the transit of your items from the storage facility.

Regardless of who you buy storage insurance from, ask about what the policy covers and excludes before buying.

Are you already covered under your homeowner or renter insurance? Then it won't cost you anything extra. But if you are separating purchasing storage tenant insurance, it may cost $8-10 price range per month, which is typical for a $2,000 policy. And if you need a high coverage limit as extra protection, you need to pay a little higher.

Many self-storage facilities use the NFPA 25 guideline for inspecting their smoke alarms and sprinkler systems. Various parts of the sprinkler system are inspected at various intervals. As required, inspections are done weekly, monthly, quarterly, annually and once in every five years.

The smoke alarm system is also inspected at various regular intervals depending on the part of the system involved. This includes weekly visual inspections, monthly and semiannual visual inspection, and annual visual inspection.

All storage facilities are not exactly the same. This is why shopping around and comparing facilities can help you choose the right one. Here are the key things you have to consider before renting any storage unit:

• Accessibility
• Security
• Pricing
• Availability
• Location
• Reviews
• After-hour access and assistance
• Facility maintenance
• Insurance coverage
• Physical Condition of the Storage Facility
• Is the Storage Facility Climate Controlled?