Tips for Choosing the Right Storage Facility in Tacoma, WA

If you find yourself searching for Tacoma storage ideas, you are sure to find an abundance of options. It can be difficult to weed through all the jargon and determine which option is best for you.

Between pricing, security and offered services, the right option is definitely out there for you. Luckily for you, Apex Moving and Storage has picked up a few tips and tricks along the way.

Seattle-Tacoma Storage Options

It wasn’t long ago that the only places you could store belongings was your local self-storage facility. While those are still highly prevalent, there are now different services that each bring their own value.

Self Storage: Self storage has been the longstanding leader in the storage industry. It offers affordable storage and some flexibility in storage unit sizes. Customers can load and unload whenever they would like. Most facilities will have security cameras and latches on each unit to put a lock on. However, not all are monitored 24/7.

Warehouse Storage: Part storage, part distribution center – these storage facilities come with many extra services and storage options. Most local moving companies offer warehouse storage, which means you have professional movers handling your belongings.

Another benefit of warehouse storage is you often aren’t responsible for any of the heavy lifting. Your items are either stored in a vault or on specialty racks and rooms for bigger items. The facility will bring your items right to the parking lot when you’re ready to pick them up.

Many companies will even offer storage pickup and delivery as part of their service. You can sit back and relax while your items are delivered right to your door.

Portable Storage: One of the newer storage services is portable storage containers in Tacoma, WA. Companies such as PODS or SMARTBOX will deliver a storage container that you can keep right on your property! The containers come in varying sizes and also have the option of being hauled away to a local warehouse.

How to Choose a Storage Unit in Tacoma

1. 1. Create an Inventory of What You Are Storing
      The first key step in picking a storage service is determining what exactly you need to be stored. If you only need to store boxes and paperwork, you can pick a smaller unit with fewer amenities. However, if you need to store antiques and furniture, you might need extra space storage with easy drive up access.
   2. Compare Prices
      The best way to find the best option is to research as many options as possible. Start gathering free quotes from companies and get a feel for what services they offer. We don’t recommend going with the cheapest option. There’s normally a good reason for it. Price should definitely be a factor when choosing a Tacoma storage facility, but it should never be the only factor.

1. Special Features
   Depending on what you are storing, you might need a facility that offers climate-controlled units or delivery service. Not all facilities offer such features, so it’s best to find out early in the process whether you can safely store your items somewhere.
2. Scout the Facility
   The last thing you want is to show up with all your belongings and realize it’s the last place you want them being stored. Once you think you have narrowed it down to a few options, go check out the facility. Do they have perimeter fencing? Surveillance cameras? Do they have a main gate with computerized access? Is the facility clean? Any sign of trash, leakage or mold should be a clear indicator of what kind of facility it is.
   You should also keep in mind how often you will need access to your storage. If you don’t need regular access to your items, you’ll have the luxury of choosing a facility further away from the city (which means less expensive).
3. Verify Payment Policy
   When looking for long term storage in Tacoma, you need to be careful about what exactly you’re signing up for. Read over the contract thoroughly to make sure you’re not at risk for being taken advantage of. Some facilities seize your items if you miss a payment while others will raise your rental fee. By ensuring you know exactly what you’re signing up for, you can be safe from scams.
4. Insurance Coverage
   It’s always a good idea to call your homeowner’s insurance provider to see if your items are insured in a storage facility. Some might require you to choose a public storage unit with certain security features or a climate-controlled unit. Some providers might not offer any insurance when you use a storage facility. In cases like this, insurance can usually be purchased through the Tacoma storage company.

Executive Summary

Choosing the right Tacoma storage company does require your due diligence. While it might seem like it, no two storage facilities are the same. From the level of customer service and security to the pricing, finding the right fit takes some research.

It might seem like you can just wing it. What’s the worst that could happen, right? You’d be surprised at some of the horror stories that we’ve heard.

The right storage company will allow you to keep your items out of sight and out of mind. The wrong storage company will cause you endless headaches and a small fortune.