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July 5, 2024

Why Self Storage is Better Than Portable Storage

If you’re looking to get storage for your valuables, whether that’s furniture or other precious belongings, you’ll come across several options. The most popular options are self storage and portable storage. It can be daunting to figure out which you should get, but we’ve got you covered. Ultimately, while they both have benefits, we will show you why self storage is a much better option. Read on below to find out more. 

Portable Storage

Portable storage has plenty of benefits. It’s perfect for a move and a short-term storage option. If you’re remodeling, you can park it in your backyard and let it stay for the duration of the move or home improvement project.  However, it isn’t ideal for a long-term solution. They usually aren’t temperature-controlled, so some of your temperature-sensitive items will need to be stored elsewhere, especially during cold winter or hot summer months. In contrast, you can get a storage unit year-round. If you have a lot that you need stored, you’ll likely need a more permanent solution eventually, and in this case, a self storage facility is ideal. 

Self Storage

Self storage is the long-term storage of your items at a facility of your choice. There are a number of reasons why you might want to choose self storage over portable storage. First, you generally have more space to store than a portable container. While portable storage is mobile, you’ll find that you’ll be able to offload more things in your home to make space. Your couch might not fit in a portable container, but it likely will at a facility!  Additionally, many units are outfitted with temperature control settings. If you have items that are sensitive to heat or cold, you’ll be able to keep them at room temperature so that they don’t damage.  Furthermore, most in the industry keep up with technology. There are cameras in most storage facilities, and while you can always get a lock, facility owners are starting to embrace the wonders of technology. Keyless locks enable Bluetooth® connectivity, making touchless technology the way of the future.  Storing your belongings onsite is the best option when it comes to affordability and its flexibility is unmatched. You can switch out unit sizes, making it the most versatile of the two.  Portable storage tends to be much smaller, so it’ll be difficult to get a lot of items inside them. Self storage units can be huge, and you have a variety of options to choose from. This is a game-changer for most people and the reason why they’re so popular.  You can also get them statewide. This makes them easily accessible no matter what state or city you’re in. 

So, Which is Best?

Between the two, it’s clear that self storage comes out on top. With its flexibility and ability to store a vast array of items long term, its temperature controls, and rental options, it certainly comes out on top in the storage industry.  How to Prepare for Storing Your Items? If you’re going to choose one, you need to know how to prepare to store your items. Here are a few tips to prepare you:
  • Check your facility’s reputation. If you note few reviews–or many bad ones–and very few testimonials, you should reconsider that facility. 
  • Work out how much access you’ll need. If you know you’ll be going consistently, you might want to consider drive-up access in-house so it’s more accessible for you. 
  • Clean your belongings. Store your items in plastic containers. Since they aren’t biodegradable and protect your items from dust and rodents, it’s a good idea to invest in them. 
If you’re interested in renting a storage unit, ClickandStor® Online Rental Suite is a premier software solution providing an online storage rental experience like no other. Using our software, you can search for the right unit for you, filter by size and type, and rent online with ease. Learn more on our website!