What to Consider Before Renting a Storage Unit in Fort McMurray
If you’re running out of space at home or office and might be looking for a solution to store extra belongings, then renting a storage unit in Fort McMurray could be the perfect answer for you. Using storage units not only helps you in clearing the space but you also get to store your valuable items in a safe and secure environment.
Whether you’re moving, decluttering, or just want to transform space, don’t’ be hasty and consider before signing up for a storage unit. Let’s break down few important things you should consider and make the right choice.
What Do You Need to Store?
- The first thing you should consider is what you’re planning to store. Are you looking to store seasonal items like winter gear or holiday decorations? Or you want to store your old furniture, boxes or even vehicles? Doing this is important as it will help you to choose the right size and type of storage unit.
- As you know, storage unit in Fort McMurray comes in many sizes, from small lockers for a few boxes to larger spaces that can hold a car or boat. Some companies also provide parking spaces for like RV storage, motorcycles etc. so knowing what items you want to store and how much space you’ll need is important. It’s good idea to get a unit that’s a little bigger than too small- this way, you can avoid stuffing your storage units.
How Much Does It Costs?
- Another reason you should be clear about what item you want to store is also because of the cost. It is one of the biggest factors when renting a storage unit in Fort McMurray as it can vary depending on the size of the unit, location, and even the time of year. Typically going for larger units will cost more, so make sure you compare different options before deciding.
- Different storage facilities have their own offers like some offer monthly rentals, while others might give you discounts if you rent for a longer period. Don’t forget to check if there are any extra fees, like a deposit, insurance, or access charges. Make sure you have a clear understanding of the total cost before you sign any documents.
Location and Accessibility
- Deciding about the location to choose a storage unit in Fort McMurray is crucial too. Choosing one that is close to your home or workplace is important if you’ll need to access your belongings often. It is a big place and some areas may be further than others, so think about how often you’ll need to visit the unit. If you need to access more often it is better to choose the near area where you can visit easily.
- You should also consider the hours of access. Some storage units are accessible 24/7, while others might only allow access during certain hours. If you need to get to your things outside of normal business hours, make sure the facility you choose offers round-the-clock access.
Security and Safety
- Storing your items doesn’t mean you don’t have any use of them that is why it is important to choose the storage unit in Fort McMurray that also provide safety and security. It is something you should never overlook. Check if the storage facility has features like CCTV’s, bright lighting, and secure gates or fences. Some places even have on-site staff that can monitor who is entering and leaving.
- You can also ask if the units have locks provided, or if you need to bring your own. Some facilities may offer extra security features, like individual alarms on your unit, for an additional cost.
Customer Service and Reviews
- In this digitalized era, before renting or deciding anything about it, it’s always a good idea to check reviews online or ask people you know if they’ve used a certain facility and may give you recommendations. The company you decide also should have good customer service, it can make a big difference. If you ever have a question or problem, you’ll want to know that the staff is friendly, helpful, and available to assist you.
- When you visit a storage unit in Fort McMurray, take note of how the staff treats you. Are the approachable and informative? Do they answer your questions clearly? It is important to choose a facility with good reviews and customer service for longer run.
Terms and Conditions
- Before signing papers, make sure you have a clear understanding about the terms and conditions of renting a storage unit in Fort McMurray. If you are not sure, don’t feel shy and ask questions regarding the confusion. Some places require minimum rental period, while others offer month-to-month rentals. Read the fine print so there are no surprises in the future.
- Don’t forget to ask about what happens if you need to move your item out early. Is there a penalty for leaving before the end of the rental period? It is necessary if you want to avoid extra hassle down the road.
Consider Insurance
- Though most of the storage facilities take good care of their properties, future is uncertain and accidents can happen. To avoid such uncertainties, you should consider getting insurance for your stored items, especially if they’re valuable.
- Some companies may offer insurance as an add-on, or you may be able to get it through your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. Check thoroughly about these things. It is always better to be safe than sorry while storing important items.
Seasonal Storage Considerations in Fort McMurray
If you’ve lived or are living in Fort McMurray, you’ll know very well that the weather can get extreme here: cold in winter is freezing, and hot and humid during the summer. These seasonal changes can be tough on the items in your storage.
That is why climate-controlled units are not just for luxurious items, but they are actually really useful. They protect your belongings from extreme heat, extreme cold, and moisture. Whether it is your wooden, or antique furniture, electronics, or even old photo albums, a climate-controlled storage unit in Fort McMurray ensures everything stays in good shape, no matter the weather outside.
Why Climate-Controlled Units Matter
Climate-controlled units maintain a stable temperature and humidity level to keep your items safe from damage in extreme conditions. This is especially the case in Fort McMurray where temperatures can fluctuate dramatically from season to season.
What Items Benefit from Climate Control:
- Electronics: Items such as computers, TVs, and audio equipment can suffer from condensation and malfunction if not stored properly.
- Antiques & Artwork: Furniture and paintings made of wood can warp, crack, or dry out even more when exposed to fluctuating temperatures and humidity.
- Musical Instruments: Instruments like pianos and guitars also react to changes in temperature and humidity which can affect their sound quality and shape.
Storage Unit in Fort McMurray (Size Guide)
Selecting the appropriate storage unit size is crucial for efficiently storing your belongings. Here’s a guide to help you choose the right unit:
| Unit Size | What It Fits | Ideal For |
| 5′ x 5′ (25 sq ft) | Small items, boxes, seasonal decorations, sports gear | A few personal items, closet overflow, or student dorm room essentials |
| 5′ x 10′ (50 sq ft) | Mattress set, dresser, boxes, small appliances | Studio apartment or a walk-in closet worth of belongings |
| 10′ x 10′ (100 sq ft) | Bed set, couch, dining table, several boxes | One-bedroom apartment or extra household storage |
| 10′ x 15′ (150 sq ft) | Large furniture, appliances, boxes | A two-bedroom apartment or downsizing from a house, contents of multi-room office |
| 10′ x 20′ (200 sq ft) | Full home furnishings, garage items, appliances | Three-bedroom house or major renovations, vehicle storage |
| 10′ x 30′ (300 sq ft) | Everything from a 4-bedroom home, including garage and outdoor items | Full house moves, long-term storage, or storing a vehicle |
FAQ’s
Q How do I determine the size of the storage unit I need?
First, it’s a good idea to take some time to see what you are storing. Take a moment to see what you have, what items take up the most space, and what’s the size of those larger appliance items or furniture you need to store.
If you need to, take measurements of the items before you go to see the storage unit in Fort McMurray. Next, you may want to think about possibly arranging what you are going to have in the unit in a way that makes sense and optimizes space as much as possible.
Lastly, if you are still unsure of the size of the self-storage unit, select the larger size so that you will have enough room to get to your items again later on.
Q Are climate-controlled units expensive?
Yes, climate-controlled storage unit in Fort McMurray are a little more pricey, simply because they provide temperature and humidity controls. But, if you are storing anything that could be damaged by extreme heat, cold, or moisture, like papers, antiques, and electronics, then it is worth spending the additional money to protect your belongings.
Q Are there items that I cannot store in the unit?
Yes, generally, there are some restrictions. Most facilities will not allow you to store items like flammable goods, perishable or illegal items. You may want to check with the facility you select and obtain a confirmed list of what items you cannot store to avoid any future issues.
Q Do I need insurance for the items I store?
You are not required to have insurance, but it is highly encouraged that you insure your items. Some facilities provide their own insurance, while you can consider personal one. Either way, insurance ensures that your items are protected in the storage unit in Fort McMurray from any potential unwanted situations.
Q Can I change to a different unit size if my needs change?
Many facilities will allow you to change units if the need arises. You may want to ask if there will be any charges or procedures involved in making any change to your unit so you know what to expect.
Conclusion
When you are short on space of your home or office or want to clear some stuffs, renting a storage unit in Fort McMurray can be a great way to solve such problems. But it is also important to take your time and think about your needs, instead of jumping right onto renting one. By considering what you’re storing, how much space you need, cost, location, security, reviews and customer service, you’ll be able to find perfect storage unit according to your situation. Take the time and keep your item safe and sure.
