Do I Need Climate-Controlled Storage for My Winter Move?
October 27, 2021 | Storage Tips
Preparing for a winter move is a little more challenging than moving during the spring or summer months. As a result, you’ll want to take into account a few extra considerations for properly packing and preparing your household belongings for winter storage.
In many cases, deciding to rent a climate-controlled storage unit for your winter move can save you a lot of preparation headaches and maybe even save you money in the long run. If you’re wondering if the extra cost for climate-controlled storage is the right choice, read on to learn more about this feature and its benefits.
What is Climate Controlled Storage?
By definition, climate-controlled storage units prevent severe temperature swings. Depending on where you live, climate-controlled storage can include air-cooled storage, heated storage, and humidity-controlled storage. Though climate-controlled units are the most common and even preferred option, it’s important to speak with your storage facility’s team to understand what they offer.
Choosing a newer facility or one that is well-maintained and conveniently located will help alleviate some of the challenges that come with much older facilities. Metro Self Storage builds new storage facilities with climate-controlled storage units placed inside buildings with sealed and insulated roofs and walls.
These newer, state-of-the-art storage facilities offer some great benefits and are 100% climate controlled with large interior loading bays designed with your comfort in mind on move-in day. Metro storage facilities offer contact-free storage rentals, easy online reservations, online bill-pay options, excellent reviews, and friendly storage teams dedicated to customer satisfaction at all locations.
Imagine moving on a wintry or rainy day and having peace of mind knowing your belongings won’t have to be exposed to the elements when loading your unit. Other state-of-the-art features that our storage customers truly appreciate include industry-leading security systems with 24-hour video surveillance. And our spacious interior loading areas, motion-sensor lighting, and storage to office communication speakers all work together to create a less stressful moving and storage experience.
The Benefits of Climate Controlled Storage During Winter
There are more advantages to choosing a climate-controlled storage unit over a traditional unit during a winter move. First, regardless of what happens with the weather, your items will stay in a temperature-controlled space between 55-80 degrees.
Even so, how do you know if you need climate-controlled storage? The answer depends on why you need to rent a storage unit. Suppose you only need winter household storage for a few weeks to a couple of months. In that case, a non-climate-controlled storage unit might be okay if you live in a state that enjoys a Mediterranean climate.
If you’re feeling unsure or are on the fence about the benefits of climate control or whether or not it’s a suitable fit for your winter move, check with your local storage team.
Another way to determine if you need climate-controlled storage during winter is to identify the things you wouldn’t worry about storing in your basement, attic, or garage. Items that are more delicate and sensitive to humidity and temperature should be stored in a climate-control unit.
Keep in mind that climate-controlled storage units are specifically designed to prevent severe temperature swings to protect your valuables throughout the year. Climate-controlled storage is ideal for the following items:
- Personal Storage: Clothing, family photo albums, and musical instruments.
- Household Storage: Wooden furniture, leather furniture, artwork, and appliances.
- Electronics Storage: Audio and video equipment, cameras, and computers.
- Business Storage: Important records and files, computers, office furniture, and tax documents.
It’s worth noting that nothing is less pleasant than moving in the rain. Even a little bit of damp on moving boxes can eventually wreak havoc on your belongings. When cardboard boxes are exposed to rain and moisture, there is a high risk of mold. Choose a storage facility with large covered interior loading bays to avoid loading your items during rainy weather.
How Much Does Climate-Controlled Storage Cost?
The cost of renting a storage unit with climate control depends on various factors. Monthly rent for a climate-controlled unit can range anywhere from 20 percent and higher than non-climate-controlled units. Even so, storage companies frequently offer move-in promotions—i.e., Get the first month for one dollar! Or other types of web specials when you book your unit online.
While storage costs vary throughout the country, the age and location of the facility are the most significant factors that determine the monthly leasing fee. If you live in or near a large metropolitan area like Chicago, prices will be higher than in a small suburb. Other factors, in most cases, include the facility’s age, storage unit size, available features, and demand for storage in that area.
Paying a bit more for storage is advisable if you’re storing high-value items and live in a region of the country that experiences extreme temperatures like high humidity, sub-zero temperatures, or both.
For your added peace of mind, look for industry-leading features like 24-hour video security systems, keypad access gates, perimeter fencing, motion lights, easy online rentals, mobile-optimized websites, climate-controlled units, free package and delivery acceptance, and large elevators.
Winter Storage with Metro
Whether you live in a city that experiences tons of snow or several inches of rain every year, moving during winter can present some unique challenges. But Metro Self Storage is here to help.
Our storage facilities offer contact-free storage rentals, easy online reservations, online bill-pay options, extended customer service hours, and friendly, professionally trained storage teams at all locations. Our retail storage offices are chock full of all the moving boxes and packing supplies, so you can experience the convenience of one-stop shopping to make your move in style.
We’ll answer all your questions and help you determine the best storage solution to meet your needs. Give us a call or reserve your unit online today!
