Kangaroo Self Storage

Glasgow Storage expert gives you 5 more easy ways to save money on the cost of self storage. Use these tips and you could dramatically cut the costs of your storage.

1.     Check The Cost Of The Deposit

All self storage companies usually charge a deposit. Some companies reduce this cost if you pay by direct debit or credit card.

Recommendation. Check the deposit amount and period. Do they reduce the deposit for direct debit or credit card payments?

2.     Check The Payment Terms

All storage companies usually charge for self storage in advance. Most companies will refund any unused days when you move out providing you comply with their notice period. Some don’t.

Recommendation. Check what the notice period is and whether any unused storage days are refunded.

3.     Is Access Free Or Are You Charged To Visit?

Some storage companies operate from custom built facilities. Many operate from a converted building which may not be easy to access.

• There’s nothing worse than having to move your belongings to a storage unit at the back of a building with poor lighting and no lift.
• Some self storage companies charge to access your belongings. For example some Glasgow storage companies charge £50 to access your belongings.
• Not all companies are open 7 days a week, so find out if you need regular access. Some companies offer 24 hour access. Expect to pay a premium for this service

Recommendation. If you can, always visit the building in advance. Check if access to your belongings is free.

4.     Self Storage Companies Charge For The Floor Space You Use

The more floor space you take the more you pay. The secrets to saving money are:

• Use the full height of the room. Usually the rooms are 7-8 feet high, so make sure you use this space.
• Use boxes so you can stack them easily. Many people make the mistake of using bin bags – they don’t stack well and the items inside get squashed.
• Completely fill the room. If you don’t need to get at your belongings don’t leave any wasted space. Store any items you might need last so they are by the door
• Prepare a list of your large items. The staff will help you to book the right sized room – make their job easier by having a list of the larger items you need to store. Check you can change to a smaller or larger room if you need more or less space.

Recommendation. Check the height of the room and use boxes to make the most of your space

5.     Is It Safe and Secure?

Always check whether the company offers storage units inside a secure building. Some companies offer old shipping containers that are stored outside.

• Storage containers may be cheaper, but they can be damp and prone to condensation. Containers are much less secure. Being outside with no extra protection they can be broken into quite easily by thieves. Your belongings may not be covered by insurance policies if stored in a container.                              

Recommendation. Store your belongings in units inside a secure self storage building. Only store low value items that will not rot, rust or be damaged in damp conditions, in a container.

About Kangaroo Self Storage:
Kangaroo Self Storage provides Glasgow storage and Dundee storage, and is currently the fastest growing company in Scotland. They provide space for businesses, householders and students.

Glasgow Storage Expert gives you 5 easy ways to save money on the cost of storage units. Use these tips and you could dramatically cut the costs of your storage.

 1.     Get The Best Price

The price of storage rooms varies by quite a lot.

Recommendation. Get a few quotes. Some companies quote high prices and then reduce their price if they know you’re shopping around. This can be a ploy to get you to move in. So don’t say you’re shopping around and see what prices you’re offered.

2.     Special Offers Will Save You Money

Self storage has become more competitive. For example nearly all Glasgow storage companies have special offers. Here are some:

• FREE Storage periods depending on how long you stay. If you intend to store for at least 8 weeks you can expect to get 2 to 4 weeks FREE.
• Half Price Storage periods, or a £1 for the first month                                
• Pre-Payment Discounts. Most companies give a discount of 5% if you pre-pay for 26 weeks. This rises to 10% for 52 weeks. Some offer even higher discounts.
• Student Discounts. Students can expect a 10% discount.
• Military Discounts. Armed Forces personnel should get a 10% discount.

Recommendation. Ask about special offers, especially if you intend to stay for more than 4 weeks.

3.     Customer Service: Trained Staff Can Save You Money

Good, trained staff will advise you on the size of room you need and how to make the best use of your space. They will also suggest offers and savings to save you money.

Recommendation. Consider customer service as part of your decision making process.

4.     How To Save Money When You Move In

Self storage companies just store your belongings. It is your responsibility to both move in and out. Hiring a van or arranging your own removals can be expensive. Always check if your self storage company will help you to move in – this could save you a lot of money. Here’s how they can help:

• Some will collect your belongings as part of their service. This usually involves a large trailer that can be parked outside your house. You are responsible for loading the trailer which is then driven by the storage staff to the storage centre. You then unload your belongings into your own room.
• “Free Van Hire” This saves you the cost of hiring your own van. Always carefully check the charges you will pay for – fuel and insurance. The insurance excess can be £250 to £500, so don’t have an accident!
• Local Removal Companies. All storage companies deal with local removal companies. They know the good ones, so get them to recommend a remover if you need one.

Recommendation. Check if the mini-storage company will help you to move in. If they will, you may save a lot of money on moving expenses.

5.     Save Money On Insurance

Your belongings will need to be insured when they are in storage. If you have a home insurance policy check with your insurer if your belongings are covered by their policy when in storage. If not, the storage company can provide insurance for you. Check the cost of this insurance.

Recommendation. Check if your home insurance covers your belongings in storage. If not check the storage company’s insurance costs and cover.

About Kangaroo Self Storage:
Kangaroo Self Storage provides Glasgow storage and Dundee storage, and is currently the fastest growing company in Scotland. They provide space for businesses, householders and students.