Choosing the best self-storage space provider isn’t all about comparing prices and options. There are important quality checks you should be doing before renting storage in Singapore, too. Someone who knows all about these key factors is Helen Ng; she’s the CEO of General Storage Company (Lock+Store Singapore and Malaysia, and The Store House Hong Kong) as well as the Chair of Self-Storage Association Asia. Here are six things she says everyone should have on their self-storage checklist.
#1 Self-Storage Security
Checking the security levels at self-storage locations is an obvious one, but it’s not just about your belongings. Personal safety is a factor too. Since most self-storage operators offer 24/7 access, the facility you choose should also offer security for you. Lock+Store, for example, has CCTV monitoring 24/7 and secure keycard access.
#2 Cleanliness and adequate lighting
A lack of good lighting or an unclean space can be frustrating and potentially dangerous. When you have full hands while you move your belongings, dim lights can be a recipe for dropping things or injuring yourself. So make sure before renting storage that the facility you choose is well maintained, regularly cleaned and brightly lit.
#3 Pest control management
The last thing you want is an unwelcome visitor amongst your belongings. Check that the self-storage operators carry out regular pest control – not only for public health reasons but also to prevent your stored items from being damaged by pests such as rats. Lock+Store is one operator that carries out regular pest control at its facilities.
#4 Space to manoeuvre items
You’ve gone to the effort of choosing your storage provider and packing your things – all that’s left is move day. You discover, however, that the loading bay isn’t easily accessible and the corridors are too narrow. This kind of oversight can turn a well organised move into a stressful and inconvenient experience.
Lock+Store facilities have accessible loading bays, and wide, spacious corridors to ensure convenient passage of trolleys to all storage spaces. It also offers customers free use of trolleys, ladders and pallet jacks. There’s also free or paid parking options for convenient access to your unit or locker.
#5 Flexible storage space options and terms
Everyone has different needs when it comes to renting storage. Ideally, there should be a wide range of air-conditioned and non-air-conditioned options, and different sizes from a locker to a unit to choose from.
Storage units at Lock+Store range in height from 2.3 to 2.6m (7.5 to 8.5ft), while lockers are 1.1 to 1.3m (3.6 to 4.2ft). There’s also an online size estimator to help with your storage space decision. If you’re worried you’ll need more space, the company offers flexible storage terms from one month to a year (renewable) so you can scale your inventory up and down.
#6 Self Storage Association Asia (SSAA)
Check if your self storage operator is an SSAA member like Lock+Store Singapore. SSAA observes benchmark standards in public and fire safety as well as good business practices
Special EL offer for renting storage!
There are 13 Lock+Store locations in Singapore. The storage site in Tanjong Pagar is currently offering 50 percent off non-air-conditioned lockers and storage units for Expat Living readers who store for a minimum period of three months, and the Ayer Rajah and Telok Blangah branches are offering 25 percent off, also for a three-months minimum.
Find out more at lockandstore.com.
If you’re renting storage space and have a bit more room at home as a result, read our fab guide to the best online furniture and homewares stores.