Need Storage?
Get A Quote
There are so many benefits that come with using a storage facility. The real trick, of course, is finding the right provider. Partner with a reliable facility and everything will proceed smoothly. Make a hasty decision and you might run into some trouble down the track.
A good storage facility should make storing your belongings feel secure, straightforward, convenient and stress-free. The question is, how can you tell one from another? That’s exactly what we’re going to answer today.
In this guide, we’ll take you through a 10-point checklist on how to choose a storage facility in Sydney.
Keep reading for our expert advice, tips, and tricks!
1. Check the Location
Storage is a lot more convenient when it isn’t a super long journey just to get there.
Think about how often you’ll need to visit and what you’ll be transporting. If you’re storing business stock or equipment, you may need to make regular trips. If you’re storing furniture during a renovation, convenient vehicle access can make moving everything in and out much easier.
StorageWorks is located on Pacific Highway in Artarmon, and our facility is accessible from suburbs across Northern Sydney, including Chatswood, Lane Cove, Crows Nest, St Leonards, Neutral Bay, Mosman, and other surrounding areas.
2. Look at the Storage Sizes Available
Not every storage requirement is the same, so why should every storage unit be?
A good facility has an array of sizes and styles on offer. This way, you’re much more likely to find a unit that actually suits your overall requirements, and not something that’s either too small or large.
Did you know that some Sydney based facilities have over 50 different storage sizes and shapes to choose from?
3. Find Out How Secure It Is
You’re entrusting a storage facility with your valuables and belongings, so you’ll definitely want to choose a facility with proper security measures in place.
A reputable facility will have controlled access, CCTV monitoring, alarms and restricted areas. Other common measures include alarmed units, PIN-controlled security gates and 24/7 CCTV monitoring and recording.
Customers also have their own PIN for facility access, while the storage space itself is secured with the customer’s own lock and key.
Of course, security doesn’t mean your belongings are automatically insured. StorageWorks recommends checking your existing household or business insurance and notes that goods are stored at the customer’s own risk.
4. Ask What You Can Actually Store
Before signing up or paying for anything, make sure the facility is able to accommodate the type of belongings you have.
Household furniture is one thing. Business inventory, archive documents, equipment, vehicles and large commercial goods can have very different requirements.
At StorageWorks, we offer everything from personal to business, warehouse and vehicle storage, including mini warehouses and larger commercial spaces. Shipping containers can also be received, with forklifts and pallet jacks available onsite for suitable requirements.
5. Think About How Often You’ll Need Access
This one is easy to overlook.
A storage space that works perfectly for long-term storage might not be the best choice if you’re visiting several times a week.
Think about what you’re storing and how frequently you’ll need to get to it. StorageWorks specifically recommends considering accessibility when choosing your space, particularly if you’ll need frequent access.
StorageWorks provides storer access at its Artarmon facilities during set hours, with 269 and 279 Pacific Highway open to storers during office hours and 9 Campbell Street available seven days a week from 6am to 8pm.
6. Compare the Price Properly
A cheap-looking storage unit isn’t necessarily the cheapest option in the long-run. That’s not to say a budget-friendly option can’t work, but it’s still a good idea to do some research.
Check exactly what is included in the quoted price and ask about deposits, administration fees, rent increases and special offers. It can also be worth comparing the price of a smaller unit against a larger one if you’re close to needing more space.
After verifying the rest of the points above, you can keep an eye out for special offers and discounts. It’s definitely worth asking what is currently available rather than assuming the advertised rate is your only option.
7. Find Out How the Storage Process Works
Moving your belongings into storage is enough work without dealing with a complicated sign-up process.
Before choosing a facility, find out what you need to do to get started, what identification or paperwork is required and how you’ll receive access.
A good storage provider keeps things simple and straightforward. You can call or drive in with your requirements, the team helps estimate the appropriate size and pricing, you sign up and move in, and you’re issued a PIN for storage access. You’ll then secure your storage space with your own lock.
8. Check What Help Is Available
Sometimes you don’t just need somewhere to store things. You need a little help getting them there.
This is particularly relevant when it comes to getting things from point A to B, or if you’re a business that’s moving stock, receiving deliveries or storing large and heavy items.
Even smaller conveniences can make a difference, particularly if you’re moving a lot of belongings at once. That’s why it never hurts to reach out and see what professional assistance is on offer.
9. Don’t Forget About Insurance
Security and insurance are two different things.
Even a well-secured storage facility can’t remove every possible risk. Your belongings aren’t automatically insured simply because they’re inside a secure storage building.
At StorageWorks, we recommend checking whether your existing household or business insurance covers belongings that are placed in storage. This is why it’s a good idea to read further information about insurance and the associated product disclosure conditions.
If you’re storing valuable furniture, equipment, stock or personal belongings, it’s worth understanding exactly what protection you have before moving everything in.
10. Talk to the Storage Team
Sometimes the easiest way to work out if a storage facility is right for you is to simply ask some questions.
Tell the team what you’re storing, roughly how much you have, how often you’ll need access and whether you have any specific requirements. They should be able to explain your options rather than simply pointing you towards the biggest available unit.
We have a free Storage Space Estimator, as well as more than 50 different storage sizes and shapes, and its team can help customers determine an appropriate size and price.
You can also request a quote with an estimate of the space required, a list of items you’re storing and any special requirements. StorageWorks can then provide suitable sizes, prices and any applicable special offers.
StorageWorks: Making Your Life Easier
Choosing a storage facility isn’t just about finding four walls and a lock.
You want somewhere that’s convenient to get to, has the right amount of space, gives you suitable access and provides the security your belongings need.
Need more information about our storage options? You’re more than welcome to call us on 02 9901 3200 or send an email to artarmon@storageworks.com.au. We have one of the largest storage facilities in Sydney, and take pride in making the process easier than ever for our customers.
