Back in the early 1960s lived a man somewhere in Texas who had a darn good idea. It was a simple idea, really. He owned a large metal garage that was situated on his land, and it seemed that the space just sat empty most of the time. So one day, a friend of his offered to pay the man some money if he could keep some of his equipment and possibly a vehicle or two inside of the empty garage. The prudent Texan agreed to the deal. After all, why not make a few bucks without having to actually do anything? Well, apparently he was a little more business savvy than he may have let on, because before too long, he ended up building a couple more metal garages and again renting them out to other local folks who needed the extra space. If it worked once, it could work again, right?

We do not know the name of that money minded Texan, but his idea planted the seed that took root and branched out to every state in the USA. He inadvertently began what would eventually become a multi billion dollar industry that is still growing today, with over 52,000 self storage unit locations throughout the United States. According to a top Association in the industry, there is more than two billion square feet of space expressly devoted to self storage unit locations in the United States alone. New Yorks Manhattan Island could fit into that amount of space not once, but three times. It is estimated that just in the US self storage unit locations generate over twenty billion dollars worth of revenue each year, and that number continues to climb. There is a lot of money floating around in empty spaces, apparently. Though, it seems, self storage unit locations do not stay empty for long.

In rural areas, self storage unit locations usually consist of rows of single story corrugated steel buildings. This is the traditional look of self storage unit locations , and what you see is what you get. These units are older, and generally do not offer or provide a climate controlled environment, nor do they feature high tech alarms and security systems. These are simple spaces reminiscent of long rows of small garages. You access the unit by driving your vehicle right up to the roll up garage like door, which you then secure with your own padlock once you have nestled your belongings safely inside. Storing your things this way is easy and very affordable, without all of the bells and whistles that the newer generation of modern self storage unit locations offer.

In large cities and more urbanized areas of the United States, however, sleek and beautiful facilities are popping up that look more like nice hotels or loft apartments than self storage unit locations . These facilities look nothing at all like traditional self storage unit locations . The buildings are new multi storied beauties, and are quickly gaining acceptance as the new industry standard. Access to the rental spaces on the upper floors is typically gained through the use of big commercial sized industrial elevators that take your belongings up to the appropriate level.

Since the spaces are all accessed internally rather than from the outside, many of these buildings have big, bright windows lining the corridors, allowing natural light and views of the surrounding city to greet you as you store away your belongings. To be clear, however, the windows do not look into the units themselves, but rather they open to the hallways that run in front of the units. Within your rented space, your privacy is always assured at these modern self storage unit locations as there is no way for anyone but you to view the valuables that you may have stored there. Walking the corridors, however, it is not quite so private. There are security cameras and alarm systems, keyless gated entry systems and closed circuit television to insure the safety of the customers and all of the items being stored. Most of these newer self storage unit locations offer climate controlled spaces, as well as wine and fur, wine and other specialty rooms available for your valuable possessions.

With so much buying and spending going on in our economy today, we are accumulating quite a bit more material goods than in years past. People are ready for a safer, cleaner way to store their excess belongings, as organizing and saving space have become an industry in itself. So who are the clients of these self storage unit locations ? About one in every ten of us, according to statistics. You heard it right, 1 in 10 American families rent space from one of these facilities. There are a host of reasons why someone would choose to rent space from self storage unit locations .

The pendulum of our economy is swinging back and forth. During a good year, money is there, and we spoil ourselves and enjoy what we have. But a year later as money becomes tight, we find ourselves having to refinance our house or sell it and move to a smaller home all together. When families have to downsize it can be a difficult transition. It is a comfort for them to know that even though they have to uproot their families, self storage unit locations are available to house the furniture and items that will not fit into their new space.

Transitions of all kinds mark a need for something different. When a loved one passes away, grief and sadness are expected and experienced by friends, and family members. Even though the grieving process has only just begun, once the funeral is over comes the unpleasant task of going through what they left behind and distributing it accordingly. This process can take some time, either tied up in court proceedings or just because emotions are demanding that the task be put off until later. Storing these belongings away for a while gives people the time that they require to get their emotions in check and take on the task with a sense of determination and honor for the person who has passed on.

Auctions are a popular way to make money these days, whether they are estate auctions or online auctions. Housing large scale items like antiques and furniture can take up more space than ones garage or spare bedroom has to offer. It is so much easier to keep all of your inventory in one clean, organized place, and preferably near a post office for conveniently shipping your sold items to their buyers. Self storage unit locations are everywhere, and they provide ease of access and affordability when your business demands that your inventory be consolidated.

An empty nest is the slang term used for a house where all the kids have grown and gone. The parents are alone once more, but it has been so long! This changes so many things in their household. They may not need or want all of the accumulated stuff that their adult children became accustomed to seeing when they were younger. Maybe they want to remodel, or clear out one of the kids bedrooms to make a craft studio or home theater. The later adult years can be some of the most exciting and rewarding of our lives if we continue to grow and learn new things. Why not take that old and outdated stuff to one of the many local self storage unit locations and start fulfilling a dream that you may have had for twenty years or more.

Just as empty nesters are trying to de-clutter their lives to make room for a new beginning, so, too do young, newly married couples find themselves in the same spot. They are in the awkward position of attempting to consolidate two homes into one shared, mutual space. Decisions are made as to what stays and what goes into their new house or apartment, which, for a first residence, is usually too small to hold all of their things. Self storage unit locations are a perfect temporary housing solution while they are growing their new family.

There are a multitude of situations that demand the usage of empty space for storing things. Landscaping companies can use self storage unit locations for housing their lawn care equipment, including mowers, trimmers and trailers. In addition, recreational vehicles, boats and extra automobiles can be stored as well. Even college students enjoy and utilize self storage unit locations to house their belongings when it is time to leave the dorm for the summer. They may not need as much space, but with the range of sizes available to rent, they will certainly find the right size unit for their needs.

Self storage unit locations vary according to size, price location and amenities. Though there are several large scale companies that have facilities across the country, even within those companies themselves, the facilities differ. In a small rural town, you may have more traditional businesses, and the small town greeting that you receive when you walk into the lobby puts a smile on your face. The owner of the facility might be the pastor of the local church or your barbers brother. Small town charm is present in these areas of the country, no matter what your business is.

Variations in size and function of the spaces are evident. For example, not all self storage unit locations offer amenities for storing wine or priceless furs. Those that do are usually found in the larger metropolitan cities. Unit sizes vary according to each facility, but the industry standard suggests that typical sized units, such as 5x10 and 10x10 are offered at most facilities.

Price is also a variant and is usually dependent upon what area of the country the facility is located in. Most self storage unit locations will try to stay current on their competitors rates, within reason. Many facilities offer free or low cost moving trucks, referral bonuses and other money and time saving opportunities in order to garner your trusted business. It is possible to go online and do a comparison search for the best deal in your area. In this way you are sure to get the services that you need at the price that best suits your budget.

Doing business with a reputable company is important, especially when your personal belongings are on the line. There are bad apples on every tree and in every industry. Be wise, and take a tour of the establishment before you commit to signing a rental agreement. There are several specific things that you want to look for while touring the facility. Take a look at the overall cleanliness of the lobby and corridors. If you see any sign of cobwebs, spiders, insects or rodent traps, take heed. This may signify that the place is rarely cleaned or that more stringent pest control methods need to be used. While touring, notice if there is any condensation or moisture in the air, or on the walls of the facility. The last thing you want is to open up your unit to reveal mold, mildew or insect infestation, and while it is rare and highly unpleasant, it does happen. Do your due diligence to insure that you have chosen a location that is clean and free of pests and well ventilated.

Some other questions you may want to ask are Does the neighborhood seem safe? Are adequate security measures being taken to insure the safety of my stored items as well as the safety of customers who are entering and leaving the property? Are the staff friendly and accommodating? Do I feel like my business is appreciated? and Can I afford this commitment and make sure that I pay on time every month?

Follow your intuition. You know what feels good. If something feels sketchy or you are uncertain about making a decision to store there, then chances are you should take your business elsewhere. Good, honest companies have reputations that precede them. Recommendations by friends, co-workers or family members are good places to start when seeking out self storage unit locations to rent.

If you walk into the lobby of a facility and the manager immediately greets you with a smile and a handshake, note that as you begin the getting to know you phase of your potential business relationship. Perhaps the manager offers you a cup of coffee or a glass of water. If so, feel good that this person is going the extra mile to accommodate you and make you comfortable. When you ask about the sizes and features of the unit, does the person explain clearly and answer your questions, making certain that you understand? Or does he rattle off a bunch of numbers and stare blankly at you? What does the place smell like? If it smells like mold and mildew it does not necessarily matter how nice the manager is. I'm sure he or she would still be nice as you pulled your ruined contents from the unit. All of the pieces of the puzzle have to fit together nicely before you decide to rent.

Some self storage unit locations will have you sign a contract before renting that states that they are not responsible or liable for any loss or theft from your space. As a tenant, it is your responsibility to make sure that your belongings are well packed, protected and stored properly. It is best to have your belongings insured, especially if they mean enough to you to hold on to them for a while. Do not take chances. Insure your belongings.

Most self storage unit locations prohibit storing any hazardous materials of any kind, such as gasoline, hazardous materials and other flammables, such as turpentine or fireworks. Perishable food items should never be stored in the unit in order to keep insect and rodent populations to a minimum. When you decide on a facility, the manager should give you a full explanation and copy of the rules and regulations of the premises. Do not be afraid to ask questions if you are not clear on some of the terms. Chances are they have heard it before and they have an answer, but you will not know if you do not ask.

When all signs point to a particular facility as the most affordable, convenient and well staffed place to take your business, it is time to start packing. Once you have moved your belongings into a unit, drop in and check on your things once a month or so. It brings peace of mind to know that your belongings are all in order and every thing is in its place. You may get to know the manager of the establishment so well with your periodic visits that you end up recommending the facility to others that you know. Who knows, you may get a referral bonus or a free months rent for your patronage!