All About Self Storage
What is self storage?
- Self storage provides an individual with a flexible option to store their belongings in a place that is outside their home. The storage unit, the space being rented by the customer, is typically rented on a month-to-month basis. Though many utilize self storage for short-term purposes, there is no limit to the duration you rent a storage unit if you adhere to the agreement you signed.
- Self storage provides more convenience and access to your belongs than other storage services. While long-term, full-service storage solutions are responsible for storing and caring for your items, they also offer little access and flexibility. Self storage, on the other hand, allows you the flexibility of accessing your unit and your stored items as often as you need during the posted access hours.
What are self storage units for?
Self storage is used for many different purposes. Some may utilize self storage for a short period of time, while others have found it to offer a great solution for an extended period. No matter the reason, a self storage unit can offer you the convenience and flexibility you need no matter the reason.
Typical uses for a self storage unit include, but are not limited to, the following:
Moving
Moving can be extremely stressful. Especially when down-sizing, a self storage unit can offer you the extra space you and your family needs. Many also utilize self storage when relocating to a new city. There are times when you are ready to move, but your new home isn’t quite ready for you. It’s times like these that self storage offers a better storage solution for you and your family.
Life Transition
Life can be quite the journey and along the way there are many points of transition we all face. Whether you’re combining households, preparing for a new baby, welcoming an aging loved one to stay with you, or getting divorced, life happens. At Shield Storage, we recognize that life’s transitions can also bring several different emotions and stress which is why we look to help by providing you enough space to fit the need of the transition you’re going through.
Decluttering
In the last year or so many of us have spent more time at home than we really every have before. Thus, we have all come to realize that we need to declutter our space and get more out of the space we have in our homes and garages.
This doesn’t mean you have to completely get rid of everything you own, but moving items from the basement or garage to a self storage unit can help free up space while also allowing you the ability to keep the items you love that have sentimental value.
Storing a Vehicle
Many don’t realize that you can store your vehicle at a self storage facility. Some locations have covered and/or uncovered parking for your boats, RVs, or trailers. Others have larger units (10×20 or larger) that offer enough space to store your car or even a work truck.
Learn more. (Here we can link to the “All About Vehicle Storage” page)
Home Renovations
Renovating your home can take weeks, if not months, and having to stack and shift your furniture around to constantly make it work can be exhausting. If you are renovating your home or office and need a place to store your furniture, appliances, or other materials, then a self storage unit offers you the best storage solution.
Business Storage
Self storage offers businesses a better storage solution. From document storage to extended space for inventory, a self storage unit can provide business customers with a cost-effective storage solution that can grow as your business grows. Many business owners will shift units as they grow and their space requirements grow as well. Our flexible, month-to-month agreements make this a great solution for many local business owners.
College Storage
College brings several different challenges for parents and students alike. One of those challenges is storing your student’s items while they are away at college. You love them, we all know that, but housing their things while they are away can be cumbersome. Self storage can provide a better storage solution for your college student’s personal belongings that they aren’t able to take with them to college.
Another challenge faced when you have a child in college is summer break. Your student has their dorm room items and essentials that they need each year while away, but they aren’t able to keep those things in their dorm room over summer break. Self Storage can also provide you with the space that is needed to store their dorm room essentials while they are home over the summer.
Military Living
Much like college, when you join the military you move away from home and live in the barracks until you reach a certain rank or become married. Thus, you need to find a place to store most of your personal items. A self storage unit can provide you a storage option nearby so you don’t have to get rid of your belongings.
As many know, there is also a lot of travel that goes along with being in the military. This is another case where your local self storage facility can offer you a space to hold your things while you’re away. Whether your deployed for 3 months or a year, Shield Storage is here to help as you serve.
Also, please note that all our Shield Storage locations offer a discount to all Active Military members. Thank you for your service.
How do you choose the right storage unit?
Location
Location is everything, but what that means will vary for each customer. You may look to store items that you will want to access regularly, utilizing your self storage as an extension of your home so to speak. Others, on the other hand, may be looking for something that will store camping gear or other items that they will take with them on a getaway. In this case, easy access to a highway may be the best options.
If you are looking for a storage location for your business, you may prefer to have a storage facility that is located between your home and office. It is important that no matter the location you choose, you find a location that fits your specific needs.
Security Features
Ensuring your property is safe and secure is one of our highest priorities at Shield Storage. We strive to provide a safe location for you to store you items by offering multiple security features at our properties. Though some features may vary from store to store, you will can count on each of our facilities having:
– Fully enclosed facilities
– Access via personal access code
– Protection plans available for all customers
– Digital surveillance systems
Price
Pricing for your self storage unit will vary based on multiple variables. Location, storage unit size, and amenities such as climate control play a role in the pricing of the storage unit you choose to rent. At Shield Storage, you will find some locations offer move-in specials to limit your initial cost when moving into your unit. No matter what your budget may be, you will never pay a deposit or reservation fee.
Upkeep
When looking for the right storage solution for you, you will want to take the cleanliness and upkeep of the facility and units into consideration. The best way to do this is to visit a storage facility nearby to look at the storage unit you are interested in renting. Storage facilities that keep their storage units and facility grounds clean show that they care.
Caring and Friendly Customer Service
It is important to the Shield Storage family that each of our customers is treated with respect and care. We understand that many of the situations that cause one to utilize self storage are stressful. Thus, we want to do our best to assist you with all your storage needs.
Our staff our kind and friendly and will always do their best to serve you and be there to answer your questions. Many of our locations have onsite store managers who are dedicated to ensuring all staff meet the Shield Storage customer service standards.
What types of access can a self storage unit have?
The Basics
As each storage facility varies in size and set-up, your availability for different types of access varies as well. Some facilities are fully indoor and your access will vary by floor. Others, on the other hand, will offer outdoor access only. Some storage facilities offer a mixture of the two depending on the building.
Having a better understanding of what access types there are and how they can impact your ability to utilize your self storage unit will help you ensure you make the right choice when choosing your unit.
Outdoor, Drive-up Access
Storage units with outdoor access are located so that you can drive your vehicle right up to your storage unit to load and unload your items. These units are very convenient, especially for items such as camping gear, jet skis, and furniture. On the other hand, most storage units with drive-up access are not climate controlled.
Indoor Access
Storage units with indoor access can be on the ground floor, in a basement, or located in a multiple storied building. In these cases, access via elevator is required. Some facilities offer indoor storage units that are accessible via a simple hallway making access rather convenient.
You can find air controlled or climate controlled storage units at facilities that have indoor storage units. It is important to remember, however, that if your storage unit does have indoor access, it does not guarantee that it will be climate controlled. Be sure to talk contact your closest Shield Storage location to learn more about the storage unit access types available.
Why does the size of a storage unit matter?
Choosing a storage unit that is the right size for the items you want to store is vital. The last thing you want to do is pack your storage unit and suddenly realize you don’t have enough space. On the other hand, you don’t want to pay for more space than you need unless you know you will grow into it.
To learn more about finding the right size storage unit for the items you need to store, visit our Storage Unit Size Guide.
What should you know about self storage?
Gate Access Codes
Every Shield Storage customer is provided a personal gate access code. This code is specific for each unit to allow us to track who is always on the property or in the facility.
Having a gate access code provides an extra layer of protection for our customers in case something may happen at the facility such as a fire, break-in, or other unforeseen event.
Extended Access Hours
Many of our field storage locations offer extended access hours to allow our customers to get to their unit when it is most convenient for them.
We understand that you may need to access your business storage before you go to the office or that you want to get your camping gear early on a Saturday morning or late Friday night.
To accommodate all your access needs, we do the best we can to offer access hours that fit the needs of the community around each Shield Storage location.
Climate Controlled Storage
Climate-controlled storage units provide a controlled environment for many of your belongings that can be damaged by the high heat or increase in humidity.
Learn more about climate-controlled storage units in the “All About Climate-controlled Storage” section.
Vehicle Storage
Self storage facilities can offer many different options for vehicle storage. You can park your RV or boat at locations with covered or uncovered parking. Or you can park a vehicle inside one of our larger storage units that are available at some Shield Storage locations.
Learn more about climate-controlled storage units in the “All About Vehicle Storage” section.
Wine Storage and Other Specialty Storage Units
Some storage locations offer specialty units such as wine storage units for rent. Our Millbrae, CA location offers wine storage units that allow wine collectors to expand their wine collection without taking up more room in their home.
These units built and maintained specifically for wine, and offer a better storage solution for the local wine collector.
Self Storage Insurance and Protection Plans
To ensure your items are covered in the event of a loss, we require that all customers either cover their stored items with their own renters’ insurance or that they purchase one of our protection plans.
As we have said before, the safety of your property is our priority which is why we require that all customers follow this company policy prior to renting one of our self storage units.
Packing and Storage Supplies
For added convenience, many of our store locations offer storage and packing supplies that can be purchased in the office.
We want to make sure that you have everything you need to have a successful storage experience which is why we have boxes, tape, and other packing materials available for sale during office hours.
What can be stored in your self storage unit?
There are a wide variety of things that can be stored in a self storage unit. Though the list below provides examples of what you can store in your storage unit, this is not a complete list. If you have any questions, please contact us today.
– Furniture
– Collectibles
– Electronics
– Camping gear
– Sports equipment
– Vehicles
– Books
– Yard tools
– Documents
– Appliances
– Clothes
What can NOT be storage in your self storage unit?
Though there is an extensive list of items that can be stored in a self storage unit, there are also items that can NOT be stored in a self storage unit. The list below is not an extensive list of all exclusions.
- Flammable chemicals
- Drugs
- Food
- Vehicles that do not run
It is also important to remember that it is not safe, or legal, to live inside any self storage unit.
Please contact us today with any questions you may have about the items you would like to store.
Are contactless rentals available?
Contactless move-ins are available at all our facilities for your convenience and safety. Contact your Shield Storage facility today with further questions about contactless rentals.
Where can I find a convenient storage unit near me?
To find a self storage location nearby, click here.
How do I pay my bill each month?
At Shield Storage, we offer our customers the convenience of auto-pay through your credit or debit card.
Do I have to sign a long-term contract?
We understand that your storage needs may change from month to month which is why we offer our Shield Storage customers the convenience of month to month agreements.
What self storage promotions do you offer?
Promotions at our facility will vary. Please be sure to contact our facility today for the most up to date promotions being offered.
All About Climate Controlled Storage
What is Climate-Control Storage?
- Climate-controlled storage units are units that are kept at a specific temperature.
- These units are typically indoors and provide a consistent environment for your stored items. Extreme temperatures and humidity can wreak havoc on your items which is why having a climate-control unit can be so beneficial.
- These units, also known as temperature-controlled units, are maintained by utilizing heating or cooling systems to maintain the desired temperature inside the storage building.
- Just as extreme heat and humidity can cause problems for some stored materials, the cold can be harmful as well.
How Extreme Temperatures and Humidity Cause Damage?
- Extreme temperatures and humidity can cause damage to many different items which is why having access to a climate-controlled storage unit is beneficial to some storage customers.
- Depending on the location and the local climate, the need for heat or cooling will differ.
- Many factors can come into play when determining whether to provide climate-controlled unit at a storage facility. The overall need of the local customers provides a great starting point.
- Some environments don’t require as much temperature control as others. On the other hand, there are locatde an affordable climate-controlled storage solution.
- Though many may think that moving into an inside unit may be difficult, our locations provide carts that make moving easier and more convenient.
How does Climate-Controlled Storage Work?
What Temperature are Climate-Controlled Storage Units Maintained?
- The storage industry sets a standard for facilities to maintain climate-controlled storage units between 55- and 80-degrees Fahrenheit.
- At Shield Storage we make it a priority to maintain this standard at every location where climate-controlled storage units are available.
- How do Climate-Controlled Storage Units Work Against Excessive Heat?
- When the heat becomes to excessive for too long, it can take a toll on your belongings. Records, photographs, and electronics can be ruined if they are left in the heat for too long.
- Furniture made of wood can be affected by the heat and even ruined as wood naturally expands in the heat which can cause warping.
- Having a climate-controlled storage unit that is kept within the required temperate range will keep your items safe and in good condition.
How do Climate-Controlled Storage Units Work Against Excessive Cold?
- Many don’t realize by the extreme cold can cause damage to your items as well.
- Furniture shrinks in the cold and can crack with extended exposure.
- Other items that can retain water can freeze, crack, and endure lasting damage.
- Extreme cold can cause damage to stored vehicles, electronics, vinyl records, and other types of media.
How do Climate-Controlled Storage Units Work Against Humidity?
- Humidity can cause mold, mildew, warping, and other damage to your items.
- Fabrics, collectibles, wood furniture, photos, and many other items can suffer irreparable damage by extreme, lasting humidity.
Heated/Cooled Storage Units
- Most storage units are climate-controlled using both heating and cooling systems to maintain the required temperature.
- This is especially true in areas where there is extreme humidity year-round and/or have a climate that fluctuates between extremely hot summers and cold winters.
Air-Cooled Storage Units
- In some parts of the country, you may find air-cooled storage units.
- These units typically are only air conditioned as the area they are located primarily experience high temperatures in the summer but are milder during the winter.
- Typically, the requirement is that these areas experience very few extreme cold temperatures (long periods colder than 50°F).
Heated Units
- Heated storage units are found in areas that experience extremely cold weather for extended periods of time but have mild summers (few extended periods warmer than 85°F).
- This requires that the climate-controlled storage units units in this area are heated in the winter but aren’t required to be cooled during the summer months.
What Should be Stored in Climate-Controlled Units?
Records, CDs, and other Media
- Extreme temperatures can damage your vinyl records, CDs, and other media you may choose to store.
- The heat can cause to your records warping while the cold can cause them to become brittle and break.
- This is also true for CDs, DVDs, and other forms of media that you may choose to store in your storage unit.
Climate Control FAQs
Should my furniture be stored in a climate-controlled storage unit?
At Shield Storage, we recommend that you keep your furniture, especially if made of wood, in a climate-controlled storage unit. This is particularly true if you live in an area where there is high humidity or extreme temperatures during the summer or winter months.
Will a climate-controlled storage unit be more expensive?
Typically speaking, climate-controlled storage units are more expensive than a traditional storage unit. This price difference is due to the cost of maintaining the required temperature within climate-controlled storage units.
Can non-climate-controlled self storage units really get hot enough to damage my things?
Yes. Traditional, non-climate-controlled storage units can get hot enough to cause damage to your stored items especially in some regions of the U.S. where summer temperatures are sustained above 85 degrees for extended periods of time.
Can I move to a climate-controlled storage unit if I am currently renting a non-climate-controlled unit at the same property?
Absolutely. If there are climate-controlled units available at the facility you are currently storing, you can talk to the store manager onsite about moving to a climate-controlled unit.
What types of things don't need to be stored in a climate-controlled storage unit?
Typically speaking, you don’t have to store the following items in climate-controlled storage units:
- Work Vehicles
- Boats
- RVs
- Cars or Trucks (exception: antique vehicles)
- Tools
- Lawn equipment (including tractors, mowers, and weed whackers)
- Dishes
- Plastic outdoor furniture
- Metal furniture
Can I get a climate-controlled unit with drive-up access?
Some facilities may offer a few drive-up climate-controlled storage units but be sure to contact your nearest Shield Storage location prior to reserving your unit to be sure they can accommodate this request and any others you may have.
