September 30, 2022

Getting Started

Before you decide to rent out a storage unit, there are a few things you should know. The purpose of this blog is to help you in making the right decision when choosing the right storage unit for your possessions.

What Should I Look For?

When choosing a self storage unit, the first thing you should consider is how safe and secure the facility is. A few other self storage factors to look for are:

Accessibility

At Hanlon Park Storage, our facilities are accessible 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. You are able to access your items and possessions whenever you need them and at any time.

Security 

Our facilities at Hanlon Park Storage are equipped with 24/7 video surveillance, a security gate, alarm system and on-site staff who perform daily checks around the entire facility to ensure that your items are safe and sound.

  • Security Gate: Only current customers with an individualized code can enter the facility.
  • Video Surveillance: 24/7 video surveillance with over 60 on-site cameras.
  • On-Site Staff: Our team will ensure that your items are protected while housed in our convenient accessible storage units with daily facility checks.

Do I Need To Buy A Lock For My Storage Unit?

Secure locks are available to purchase from our office or you can provide your own. We suggest utilizing disc locks. Disc locks were specifically designed to secure self-storage lockers. Overtime they have proven to be the most secure locks to use.

What Do You Need To Rent A Storage Unit?

In order to book a storage unit with Hanlon Park Storage, you must provide a valid, government-issued form of ID to rent your storage unit. Here are your options below:

  • Drivers Licence
  • Passport
  • Ontario Photo Card 
  • Canadian Citizenship Card

Outdoor vs. Indoor Storage Units

When it comes to renting a self storage unit, there are two main types of self storage units, outdoor and indoor. In order to finalize your decision on what type of self storage unit to proceed with, please carefully consider the descriptions below to get a better idea of which storage unit is best suited for you.

Outdoor Storage

One thing to consider with outdoor units is whether your items will be affected by the cold winter climate or hot summer conditions. Or if you require a heated unit that is heated in the winter only. Many people that work in their unit choose this option. Another factor to consider is that outdoor units are also drive-up units. Drive up units make it very easy for you to pull right up to your unit and unload straight out of your car. We normally label our outdoor non-heated units as a garage. If you are comfortable storing certain belongings in your garage, then you should be comfortable storing them in our outdoor unit. Regular non-heated units are less expensive than our indoor storage units. If you are storing temperature-sensitive items, we recommend proceeding with an indoor climate-controlled storage unit.

Indoor Storage

A distinctive advantage with our indoor units is that they are climate-controlled. Along with the added climate control feature, indoor units provide an extra level of protection for your belongings. If you are storing valuable possessions or temperature-sensitive items, indoor units may be the best option for you. Basically, if you think of a home that is air conditioned in the summer and heated in the winter, this best describes our climate-controlled units.

Climate-Controlled Storage Unit

It is important to note that if you’re storing items that are sensitive to temperature or humidity, it should be in your best interest to choose a storage unit with a climate control feature. This will most likely be an indoor climate-controlled self storage unit. Below we’ve gone ahead and listed some common everyday items that need climate-controlled storage units. If you’re unaware whether your item will need a climate-controlled storage unit, get in contact with our team and we will be happy to answer any questions or concerns you may have. See our list below:

  • Electronics: Laptops, computers, monitors, smartphones, tablets, audio systems, TVs, & other electronics can be damaged by extreme heat or cold conditions.
  • Furniture: Wood furniture can crack, warp or decay in extreme temperatures.
  • Photographs: Extreme temperatures and moisture can damage film photographs.
  • Musical Instruments: String instruments can go out of tune in extreme conditions.