Daisy Santiago
February 18, 2020

The True Costs of Self Storage: How to Avoid the Traps

The self-storage industry is booming, especially in our fast-paced modern era. In today's world where convenience and cost come hand in hand, it's vital that you get every penny worth when it comes to subscribing or purchasing something.

Renting a self-storage unit will cost you a lot of money, especially if you're choosing a unit that meets all your standards you're looking for. And mind you, there are lots of storage companies that offer discounts and promos, all trying to get your money and attention. Always take necessary precautions before spending your money for storage units as many of them have enticing promotions but in the end, they are actually "traps." Traps that you sometimes forget to scrutinise because you're too eager to get the promos and discounts, thinking you'd be able to save as much on your storage costs. So, let's get down to the real deal here and read all the possible red flags.

1. Security deposit

A security deposit is a must in any renting business. Its purpose is to cover expenses incurred if the storage facility needs to do extra work for arranging or cleaning a storage unit after you move out. Since this is one of the things you're expected to pay, make sure that it is refundable. Also, please be aware of the terms in refunding so there will be no conflicts once you decide to take away your items.

2. Admin fees

Check if the storage facility is charging admin fees. These fees are basically to compensate the storage facility's personnel for doing the initial paperwork. It covers the time and works it takes for the personnel to set up your account, give your gate access, arranging extra security features, and so on. Take note, admin fees are usually non-refundable.

3. Extra service charge

Clarify with the storage facility representative if they are charging customers for every extra service being asked from them. For example, if the customer asks the personnel to make rounds and check for his unit or if the customer requests for assistance during his visit.

So these are just a few red flags that you should check and be aware of. One key note, too avoid these traps is to thoroughly read the contract. Patiently reading it will help you from falling into the trap. Lastly, there's no harm in asking questions, if in doubt, always opt to contact the storage company to get a direct answer.

Daisy Santiago

Daisy is our superstar blogger. With a marketing background and passion for writing, she loves to explore and research topics & put them into writing. Outside of work her hobbies include blogging, writing, blogging, writing. (We keep telling her to get out more)

Want to learn about how we can help you with storage?

Looking for cheap self storage solutions?

Take a look below to pick your preferred booking method
Call 0800 061 4091

Speak with one of our storage consultants for best advice about your storage needs

Call us today
Book Online

Book your storage online in a few clicks. We've made that easy too! (10% discount)

Book online
Contact us

Have a question? Need a quote? click the button to fill out our contact form

Contact us
easyStorage Hiring

Our storage packages have the added benefit of free removal of your items, saving you up to £1,000. All you need to do is pack your items (or we can pack for you, supplying boxes and packing material) and we’ll pick-up your items and store them in our safe and secure easyStorage facility. Then when you are ready, we’ll deliver them wherever you need us to. You just need to give us two working days’ notice. Perfect if you are moving house, running out of space, or just need somewhere to store your stuff.  

Our storage plans provide you with a cost-effective alternative to renting your own lock-up storage space as we’ll only charge you for the storage space you need, making it cheaper for you.

We're here to help, 24/7