Understanding Storage Concerns

Tips For Securing A Storage Unit For A College Student

27 January 2021

Letitia Lucas

If you have a child that attends college in another state, in essence, they have a home away from home. As such, it is not exactly practical to transport their school belongings back home during the summer. Investing in a self-storage unit can be especially helpful in this scenario. To ensure that security, convenience, and cost-effectiveness remain at the forefront, learn what you should look for in a self-storage facility.

Around-The-Clock Access

It is important to look for a storage facility that offers twenty-four-seven access. Due to security concerns, there are some storage units that limit access to their facility to certain hours of the day. The problem with this sort of setup is that your schedule when you pick up or drop off your student may not fit this limited window. A facility that allows you to access the storage unit any time of day is a more convenient option. 

Climate Control

On the frontend, it does seem like a climate-controlled unit is a greater investment. However, on the backend, these units can be more cost-effective. From electronics to paper to furniture, storing your child's belongings in a unit that is exposed to the elements comes with a greater risk of damage. While it might be less expensive to choose an outdoor unit, once you replace the damaged items, you may not have saved as much as you thought. 

Early Rate Lock-In

Many storage facilities are forced to fluctuate their unit rates based on demand. As you might imagine, in a college town, the demand for storage units increases in late spring. A great way to get ahead of this cost increase is to pair with a facility that allows you to lock your rate in early. In many instances, facilities will offer this deal in exchange for prepayment of the full contract price. 

Joint Tenant Options

If your student has met a close friend while away at school, they may be interested in securing a storage unit together, especially if they are roommates. In this situation, by sharing their unit, you and the other family can save money and even make the move-in and out processes easier. However, some facilities only authorize access to a single tenant. If you are interested in this idea, be sure to ask beforehand if they allow for joint-tenant units. 

Make sure you keep these tips in mind as you search for a storage unit near your child's campus. 

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