Choosing the right storage facility in Central Texas involves much more than simply finding the lowest monthly price. Whether you need storage for moving house, downsizing, renovations, military relocations, or freeing up space at home, the right storage unit will make the process as stress-free as possible. Keep reading as we share the top ten things to look for before you rent a storage unit.
1. Choose the Right Storage Unit Size
To choose the right storage unit size, estimate how much space your belongings actually require before you start looking at storage unit sizes. Common sizes that we offer include 5×10, 10×10, and 10×15, and these are often enough space for anyone emptying an apartment or home. Check out our storage unit size guide to find the best size for your needs.
2. Consider Temperature-Controlled Storage
Extreme Central Texas temperatures can affect furniture, electronics, photographs, documents, collectibles, and other sensitive belongings when left in storage for an extended period. Temperature-controlled storage is worth upgrading to when you are storing these types of items, especially during the summer months when Texas heat and humidity reach their peak.
3. Look at the Facility’s Security Features
Security features should be a top consideration when comparing storage facilities, as you want peace of mind when leaving items in storage for an extended period. Look for gated or controlled access, security cameras, good interior and exterior lighting, and other measures designed to protect your stored belongings.
4. Consider Location and Convenience
When selecting a storage facility, make sure it is convenient to your home, workplace, or moving route. You don’t need to be driving far out of your way just to access belongings, especially if you need regular access to items in storage for work or personal use. Here at Amy’s Attic Self Storage, we offer locations in Belton, Harker Heights, Killeen, Salado, Temple, Waco, and surrounding Central Texas communities. Our newest location will be opening in Jarrell, Texas in 2027.
5. Check Access Hours
Knowing how often you need to access your storage unit, and when, can help you choose a unit based on its access hours. Ask the customer service team when customers can enter the property and decide whether those hours work with your schedule. Many storage facilities advertise both office hours and storage access hours. Office hours are the times of day when a team member will be on site, but the storage access hours are often extended or even 24/7 and allow you to access your belongings at a time that’s convenient to you.
6. Compare Pricing — Not Just the Advertised Rate
The advertised rate for a storage unit may not tell the full story. Ask ahead of time about administrative fees, insurance requirements, deposits, locks, and other potential charges. This will allow you to compare the overall value with competing facilities and decide whether the unit is within your budget.
7. Ask About Rental Terms and Flexibility
While you may have an idea of how long you need to store your items, keep in mind that plans often change when moving home, renovating your property, or deploying. Determine ahead of time whether month-to-month rentals are available for more flexibility if you don’t have a clear timeline for your storage needs. Compare short-term versus long-term options to make a final decision about whether a facility’s rental terms suit the plans you have in mind for the upcoming months.
8. Inspect the Cleanliness and Condition of the Facility
We always recommend touring a storage facility in person before committing to a rental contract. When you first approach a location, inspect the facility’s cleanliness and condition. Look for clean units, hallways, grounds, and common areas, which show a team’s commitment to maintaining the facility. Check for signs of water intrusion, pests, or poor maintenance. If you notice these, don’t hesitate to raise your concerns, as they could damage your personal belongings in storage.
9. Consider Vehicle, RV, or Specialty Storage Needs
In addition to storing items from your home, you may need storage for an RV, camper, vehicle, motorcycle, or other oversized property. If you are storing these types of vehicles or larger items, consider the space dimensions, accessibility, and security needs, which may be greater than those of standard storage units. Our team will be happy to discuss any unusual requests or larger items you want to store and share the options available.
10. Evaluate Customer Service and Reputation
While it’s essential to compare the facilities available at any storage location you are considering, it’s also important to evaluate a company’s customer service and reputation within the community. Perform a quick Google search to read customer reviews. Look for recurring themes to understand what previous customers have experienced, as you can usually get a good idea of what to expect from any trends that come up. We recommend choosing a locally established storage provider that understands the needs of Central Texas residents, especially when storing personal belongings in the state’s high temperatures and humidity.
By looking for these ten things in a storage facility, you can ensure you find a suitable place to store your personal belongings. Peace of mind from good security features is one of the top considerations when choosing a storage facility. Still, you’ll also want to ensure they offer a range of unit sizes and great customer service. Contact our team today at Amy’s Attic Self Storage for more information about our storage facilities in Central Texas.
