Whether it’s your first time renting self-storage or you had a bad first experience and want things to go more smoothly this time around, there are 10 questions to ask when renting a storage unit to ensure everything goes off without a hitch.
Key Takeaways
- Not every self-storage provider in Saudi Arabia works the same way, and it’s important that you weigh your options.
- Delivery, access, security, climate control, and contract terms are the most important things to ask about.
- WheeKeep delivers portable storage to Jeddah, Riyadh, Makkah, Medina, and AlUla. You pack at your pace, and then we can haul the unit away (or leave it on your property).
- Choose from dry, temperature-controlled, and cold storage solutions.
10 Questions to Ask When Renting a Storage Unit
We always recommend having a conversation with the storage provider you choose before you sign any contract. These are the most important questions to ask when renting a storage unit.
1. Do you deliver, or do I come to you?
You’re probably familiar with the traditional storage process, where you load up your car, take everything to a storage facility, and unpack it there. Huge hassle. Some providers will bring portable storage units to your home or business and let you pack it at your own pace. Then, they’ll take it back to their facility to keep your goods safe and sound.
2. What sizes do you offer?
Not just small, medium, and large containers. Keep prodding for a better answer - because these things can mean different sizes to any given storage provider. Get sizes in meters - or better yet, ask if they have a storage space calculator!
3. Is climate control available?
Now, it’s not essential for every type of good being stored. But it’s still nice to know you have access to it! Heat can warp or degrade electronics, leather, artwork, and paper documents. These types of things need a climate-controlled storage unit.
Ambient storage units can hold temperatures between 18-28°C for sensitive items. There are also fridge storage units that stay between 0-20°C for perishables, event catering, or anything that needs to stay cold!
4. Who has access to my unit?
Some facilities give staff master keys, and all use the same locks. That’s sketchy. You want to choose a provider that lets you provide your own lock and doesn’t ask for a copy of the key. That’s how you enjoy peace of mind.
5. Am I locked into a contract?
Pretty much any storage provider in Saudi Arabia is going to ask you to commit to a contract. It’s the length of that contract that you should ask about. You want flexibility, so ask about month-to-month rental terms.
6. Can someone help me pack?
Whether you’re physically unable or just don’t want to, the best Saudi Arabian storage providers will let you hire them to handle all the packing of your goods! This is the way to go.
7. Will you move my storage unit to my new address?
Moving storage units are super convenient when you’re between addresses but need to get all your belongings out of your old home in the meantime. You can pack the unit at your existing address and have it delivered to your new address.
8. What am I not allowed to store?
This will likely be the same across all Saudi Arabian providers, but it’s still one of the more important questions to ask when renting a storage unit to be sure.
Hazardous materials like chemicals, gasoline, and pressurized containers are banned across the board. However, some providers will go as far as to restrict the storage of batteries, paint, or anything flammable.
9. How do I get a better deal?
Everything is negotiable in life! You can probably sign up for 6-month or 12-month contracts to get a discount if you just ask.
10. How do I get my stuff back when I need it?
Some providers require you to visit during business hours and sort through your unit on-site. Others deliver the entire unit back to your door for a fee. Find out how to access your storage unit so you’re not caught off guard when you need something.
More Things to Think About Before Picking a Storage Unit
There are just a couple other caveats to keep in mind after vetting a potential provider.
- Insurance: Ask whether the provider offers coverage for stored items in case of damage, or if you need a separate storage policy.
- Payment methods: Confirm the billing policy in advance so there are no surprises.
- Cancellation policy: Know the cutoff. Some charge if you cancel less than 24 hours before a scheduled delivery.
- Commercial use: Ask about business storage units and whether bulk pricing applies for multiple units if you’re storing inventory, event equipment, or office furniture.
There’s obviously a lot to take into consideration, but that should pretty much cover all the questions to ask when renting a storage unit! All that’s left to do now is take the next step with WheeKeep.
Enjoy Peace of Mind Storing Your Goods With WheeKeep!
You’ll find positive answers to EVERY question on this list when you work with WheeKeep. We help you pick the perfect size and type of storage unit for your needs, and then we’ll bring it to your location to be packed at your leisure (or, we can pack it for you).
Then you decide if you want us to keep your goods in our secure, CCTV-monitored storage facility or if you’d rather have access to them on your property. We can always re-deliver your goods to you if needed (SAR 99, excluding VAT, round trip).
So, what are you waiting for? Experience self-storage as it was intended with WheeKeep!
Frequently asked questions
How to tell if a storage unit facility is safe?
Confirm it has 24/7 CCTV, on-site security, and fire alarms. You should provide your own lock and be the only person who holds a key.
What should I not keep in a storage unit?
Chemicals, gasoline, propane, pressurized containers, anything flammable or corrosive.
What are common storage unit mistakes?
Renting too small because it's cheaper. Skipping climate control for items that need it. Not labeling boxes. Signing a long-term contract for a short-term need. These are the types of things that can be avoided when you know the right questions to ask when renting a storage unit!
What hidden fees do storage units have?
Access fees for visiting your stored unit. Late charges on missed payments. Admin fees at signup. Mandatory insurance requirements you didn't budget for. Again, ask about this stuff upfront and get on the same page as your provider for a smooth relationship!
