Self-storage is a straightforward business but this does not stop the self storage myths. Self-storage units are a storage space that is rented out by a storage company for a select period of time by a customer. There has been an increase in popularity of the last few years as they are often used during house moves or by business to store stock and equipment. Even with this increased popularity, there remain many misconceptions around self-storage. 

In this article we are going to debunk many of the self-storage myths. 

Self-Storage Units are Only for Long-Term Use

Many people believe the self storage myth that storage units are for long-term use only. This means that storage units should only be used by people who need them for long periods of time, 3+ months.

This is not remotely the case. Storage units are available for short-term use too and, at Cinch Self Storage, we are happy to rent our units for short-term periods. In fact, this is why all our rental contracts are flexible as it allows the storage unit to work with the customers needs. 

There are many benefits to using self storage for a short-term period. Many people use units for a short period of time such as when they are redecorating their home or when someone is coming to stay for a few weeks and they need to make room.

Self-Storage is Expensive

Another self storage myth is that self storage is expensive and unaffordable for many people. 

This is a myth because in all professional self-storage facilities you will find a variety of different sized units which range in price, with the price going up as the unit size increases. Storage facilities do this because we want to cater to different people, with different needs and different budgets. 

If you are wanting advice for the best unit to rent on your budget, give your local storage facility a call. They will happily talk you through your options and you may find that they have a promotion that they can offer you. 

Self Storage In Unsecure

There is also a self storage myth that self storage units are not secure and that any belongings you store within your unit will be at risk of people breaking in and stealing all your precious belongings. 

All professional self-storage companies take immense measures to make sure that their facilities are completely safe and secure. Within our own storage facilities, we have intruder alarms on every unit, 24/7 CCTV surveillance around every facility and we have a pin-code system to ensure convenient access to your own unit whilst keeping everyone else’s safe and secure. 

Self-Storage Facilities Offer Limited Access to Your Belongings

There is also a misconception that when you use self storage you have limited access. In many storage facilities you will find extended opening hours via pin-code or key-controlled access systems. 

Within some of our stores we have extended opening hours of 6am to 11pm, Monday to Sunday. Please check our website to see if your local store offers extended opening hours. 

Contracts are Binding and Inflexible

Many people believe that storage rental contracts are not only available for long-term use but also that there is no flexibility. The self storage myth is that once you sign your rental contract you are trapped within that contract whether your needs change or not. 

In reality, there is a great deal of flexibility within a self-storage rental contract. You are free to rent a unit for a long-term period or a short-term period and there is a great deal of flexibility when it comes to altering your unit selection.

Within our self storage facilities we are happy to upgrade or downgrade your unit as your needs change. You are also free to leave your unit before your rental contract has expired. We just need 14 days notice. 

You Can’t Work From a Storage Unit

The final myth we are debunking today is that you cannot work from a storage unit. 

Some of our customers have used their unit as a workshop or as a space in which they can sort and pack orders. We are very happy for people to work within their units.

We do also have offices available to rent in some of our stores. These are, obviously, available to be used as offices but we are also happy for you to make them work for your business. This is what Kristie has done when she set up her beauty salon in one of our offices.

If you would like to know more about our offices, check out our website.  

Self Storage Myths Debunked

We hope that now we have bust some of the self storage myths you feel more able to make an informed decision when it comes to using self storage. It is still important that you do your research before choosing which self-storage facility to use as each one is different.

If you would like to know more about our self storage option, please head to our website to find your local store.