Storage Tips

1) Storage Basics

2) Security

The best thing you can do to get the proper facility is research. Think about what it is you want from a storage facility, maybe its radiant heating, or perhaps higher security. Whatever it is make sure you get it! Don't settle for the first unit you call that has a good deal, usually you can get what you want for nearly the same price. Its also important to remember that a few extra dollars now can save you thousands in damage and countless headaches later!

We live in a World where security is ever more difficult and keeping your belongings safe is a MUST! Being in the storage business myself Ive learned many of the ways and techniques that are helpful. First and foremost is research! That is the single best way to find a storage facility that will meet your needs. Take your time and look for the following things:

1) Fenced and Gated Facility
These days its hard to find a facility without this simple security measure, however, there are some. It is the easiest way to deter a would be thief from breaking in. Basically, a fenced facility weeds out the "passer by" criminals. It causes a situation where someone has to plan the break in. Already you have eliminated 50% of your thieves.

2) Video Surveillance (VISIBLE)
Most storage units have some sort of video surveillance as well, however, there are a few things to look for regarding this. Make sure there are monitors within public view with footage of real-time footage. This is a HUGE deterrent for someone looking to break in. The knowledge that they may be caught on film is enough to keep many people out. Many thieves will try to get a tour of the facility during normal business hours, or they will be a current renter. Having multiple monitors cycling through footage scares away many would be criminals.

3) Security Access System
Many newer facilities feature a system where every customer is given their own personalized security code that works ONLY on their unit. For example, you rent unit 532. They then have you choose a four digit code to go along with this. Those combined seven digits will be unique to your unit alone. This code is then entered upon entering and exiting the gate where it does two things. First, it opens the gate for access, secondly it removes the alarm from your door. If the code were not typed when you opened the door a facility alarm should be tripped.
This alarm is extremely useful because most thieves will hear it and immediately flee form the scene leaving your belongings basically untouched. Not only this but it should notify a security company who will then investigate. When choosing a storage facility this is a must, however, be sure to ask them if the building alarm is associated with a security company and who is required to respond to the call.

4) Locks
Locks are probably the biggest problem I found with security. Many people are tricked by companies that market the "biggest and baddest" lock. Bigger does NOT mean that it is any more secure, it is all about design. The classic style steel body locks with a shackle as large as 1/2 inch can be cut in less than 30 seconds. A 1/2 inch shackle is a very large lock and "looks" secure. Again, it is not about size but design. Shielded padlocks (the round high security locks) are slightly better as it will most likely take someone with a pair of bolt cutters 2+ minutes to cut. This may be a surprise as they are marketed as high security because you "can't" use bolt cutters on them. Unfortunately, this is actually false and someone who knows what they are doing will have no trouble cutting them. The best lock I have found is the cylinder lock.
This lock can only be used at a facility that is designed for it. They must have a small hole underneath the latch on the door. Inserted into it is a circular lock which truly CANNOT be cut with bolt cutters. These must be drilled out which take sometimes up to ten minutes! The truth is that ANY lock can be overcome. It is simple a matter of difficulty. The harder the lock, the less likely someone will be to mess with it. My recommendation is put multiple locks on for the highest security. A cylinder and shielded lock on the same unit will stop most people from even attempting to get in. Put yourself in a thieves shoes, if you see a unit with multiple locks that will take you up to 15 minutes to cut and drill, then you see one right next to it with only a small traditional lock that would take you 30 seconds to cut, which would you go for?