How To Choose A Self Storage Company
Shipping Container News
We are often asked what should not be kept inside a container, the simple answer is not much. Private individuals will often store the majority of household effects, including furniture. Cars are another popular item. Collectors with classic cars, they use rarely, often require storage if they do not have room in the garage indoors, or require something more secure. London can be a busy city, garages and off street parking are often a luxury that can leave valuable vehicles open to theft or vandalism.
Companies also need storage. Mountains of paperwork and files required to be kept by law for long periods of time are often archived. With land costs and property prices being so high in Essex and London many businesses prefer to operate their companies from as small a base as possible keeping overheads low. Rather than tying up much needed capital by purchasing freehold offices and warehouses, or by signing long leases the option of flexible short term self storage can be the answer.
Most companies will prohibit the storage of explosives, ammunition, illegal substances, highly flammable products and livestock. Food is another item that is perhaps less obviously prohibited from most places unless kept in cold storage. The main issue here is one of regulation and the possible attraction of vermin.
When looking for a store choose one that is local and which has good access. Ideally your unit should be at ground level and enable you to back your vehicle right up to the doors for ease of loading and unloading. Security is another factor to take into consideration. Is the site manned, quite often container store parks will be in the middle of nowhere and at best secured by a gate with a combination padlock or key entry system. Unfortunately this will not offer much deterrent and premises with a permanent staff presence are much more secure. The unit itself should be in good order and free from leaks or odours, nothing is worse than coming back to collect your household effects after a few months in storage only to find them water damaged or smelly.