First Time Guide
At I-45 Self Storage in Huntsville, TX, we offer a wide variety of amenities and storage options. If you’re new to self storage or it’s your first time renting a storage unit, all of these choices could seem a little intimidating! We pride ourselves on providing good, old-fashioned customer service, and we want your storage experience to be easy and convenient. That’s why we’ve put together this handy guide for first time storage renters. We hope it answers some of our most common new renter questions to make your storage project simple. Check it out below to learn about self storage, storage amenities, selecting the right unit size, and more!
What is a self storage?
Self storage (short for “self-service storage” and also known as “mini storage”) is an American-born industry. At self storage facilities, storage space (like storage units, parking spaces, lockers, and portable containers) is rented to tenants on a short-term basis. Tenants (who could be individuals or businesses) can lease one or more storage spaces indefinitely as long as they pay the rent that is due on-time.
What do most people use storage units for?
All kinds of things! Many people rent store space while moving or downsizing their home or office, or to temporarily store a family member’s items after a death or property sale. Many tenants rent storage space to house their classic car, boat, camper, or RV, while others simply use storage space as a way to declutter their garage. We even know some clever parents who rent small storage units around the holidays every year as a secret hiding spot for Christmas presents. There are a variety of reasons that someone might need a storage unit, and many of us end up needing a storage space during various transitional periods in life.
How do I know what size storage unit I need?
Instead of measuring all of your items by hand, check out our easy online storage calculator! It’s easy and free to use, and it provides an instant estimate of the storage unit size you’ll need for your various items.
How long am I locked into my storage unit in a lease?
Our rentals are month-to-month. After you sign your lease, you’ll pay for a minimum of one month rental, with no deposit fee. Of course, you are free to rent for as many months (or as few months!) as you’d like, depending on your storage needs.
Do I need a lock for my storage unit?
Yes. You can buy a lock right in our office, or find one at stores like Home Depot, WalMart, Lowes, or Amazon. We highly recommend disc padlocks - they’re durable, easy to use, and tough for unwanted visitors to crack.
How do I get my stuff to my storage unit?
Load up your items and bring them on over to the facility during our access hours. If your items are heavy or hard to carry, you can use one of our dollies or handcarts to make moving it easier. Our units are drive-up accessible, so you’ll be able to drive your vehicle, trailer, or truck right up to the front door of your unit, making unloading your stuff easy. Our resident manager is always happy to lend a hand on your move-in day.
What is a climate controlled storage unit?
Climate controlled storage units provide an even temperature and controlled level of humidity to your storage unit. This helps protect your items from fluctuating temperatures and extreme heat or cold. Climate controlled storage is perfect for clothes, electronics, furniture, documents, wine, and more! We highly recommend climate control to protect your items from the Texas heat.
What is drive-up access?
Drive-up accessible units are units that allow the renter to drive right up to the front door of the unit, making loading and unloading easy. Instead of hauling items across a parking lot, up stairs, or in an elevator, you’ll be able to drive up to and park right in front of your unit while unloading your items. Drive-up access is ideal for heavy furniture or hard-to-carry items like bedroom sets, couches, and more.
Are office hours different from access hours?
Yes, office hours are the hours during the day when our manager will be in our on-site office to help customers, process new move-ins, and answer any questions you may have. Access hours are the hours during the day when current tenants can access their unit and be on the property.Our office hours are Monday through Friday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. We are closed on Saturdays and Sundays, but can be available by appointment.Our access hours are 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Tenants can simply enter their code and access their unit, any time of day or night that works best for them.
What is keypad code access?
To get into our facility and access your storage unit, you’ll notice you have to drive through a gate and enter a code at our keypad. This keypad code access allows us to track and monitor all of the comings and goings at our facility. Once you rent a unit, you’ll be able to select a personal gate code. Just like the pin number for your debit card, you should keep this number private and be careful about writing it down where someone else could find it. Our strong perimeter fence, digital security cameras, and keypad gate access all work together to help prevent unwanted visitors from accessing the facility, keeping your items safe and protected.