Blog

Why You Shouldn’t Waste Your Money on Mini-Storage

If you’re preparing for a big move, you’ve probably considered self-storage at some point. A study released by the Self Storage Association showed that self-storage units are rented by 1 in 10 U.S. households. That number represents thousands of families and individuals storing some of their most valuable belongings in units that may not be properly secured, have strict lease and space limitations, and cost more out of pocket each year than they’re worth. So why should you say no to a self-storage solution?

In this blog, we’ll take a look at some of the common reasons why customers choose to use self-storage and why mini-storage is a waste of money.

Hidden costs

The average self-storage unit ranges anywhere from 5’ x 5’ to 20’ by 20’ and most owners offer various amenities and features you can choose to have included — for a price. According to Consumer Reports, an average self-storage unit can cost the customer nearly $2,000 per year. That price increases dramatically if you live in a large city.

A downside of this investment over a year is the limited space. Month-to-month or leased storage agreements come with very specific dimension restrictions and a long list of rules that, if broken, can result in yet another large charge when you go to end your contract.

Other unexpected costs can often add up to a larger than planned investment in the end. These are often hidden in the fine print, like required insurance, maintenance fees or an upsold storage space that may have easier access or better locks.

Storing instead of purging

One of the most common reasons for self-storage is simply not having a place for all of your belongings! Moves can be cumbersome, especially if you’re planning every little detail by yourself. With an experienced team to help take care of all the little details, properly dispose of any unwanted items and keep your valuable items safe and secure, you can focus on enjoying your new home faster.

Armstrong Relocation – Houston has professional services to donate, recycle or dispose of your unwanted items. Instead of just tossing everything you no longer have the space for, our team takes the time to donate or recycle every item possible. Having one less item on your plate to take care of during a move is part of how we keep our customers stress-free by going the extra mile.

Inconvenience of access

You may be planning on storing items that you will eventually want in your new home in a rented unit. Unfortunately, you will not only have to do it under the unit’s specific office hours, but it will also be entirely up to you to move them into storage and your new home.

With a full-service mover like Armstrong Relocation – Houston, you don’t have to worry about moving your items back-and-forth. We can store your items at any of our storage facilities across the country, then deliver them to you when you’re ready for them. With over 2.9 million sq. ft. of warehouse space nationwide, the possibilities are endless.

Theft and damage

Your average self-storage company cannot guarantee that your items will never be damaged or broken into, hence likely requirements to carry your own storage rental insurance. The safety of your prized possessions can be affected by a multitude of details like where the units are located, whether they have hired security, if there are enough cameras, how high the gates are, how clean and well-kept the facility is, and more.

Choosing a reputable, secure storage option is crucial for the safety of items that hold significance to you. One thing Armstrong Relocation – Houston offers through our storage solutions is peace of mind. In fact, all of our nationwide storage facilities are equipped with 24/7, state-of-the-art security, alarms, after-hours security personnel, fire suppression systems, ventilation, and vaulted storage. Shipments are also padded and containerized for further protection. No matter your need — short-term or long-term — we can store your belongings safely.

Storing your valuable items doesn’t have to cost more than your storage is worth. Instead of paying hidden fees and complex lease agreements, choose storage with a team that cares about your peace of mind and can help you every step of the way. With decades of experience moving and storing customers’ belongings, Armstrong Relocation – Houston makes moving simple and stress-free by ensuring customers’ items are always in the safest hands.

Want to learn more about moving stress-free with Armstrong? Contact us today via phone at 281.897.1118 or request your free quote online.

Return to Main Blog