A self storage unit can be a real blessing when you're in a pinch and need space in a hurry. It's a great place to stash your stuff for a short period of time while you're moving from one location to another, or, just don't have the room. However, self storage spaces can be the stuff of nightmares when the contract is pending expiration and you don't have the time and/or want, to clean it out or renew. Most will opt to renew, simply because it's the least frustrating choice, even though it costs more in the long run.
What to Do When Self Storage Unit Contract Expires
Of course, at some point, you'll want to rid yourself of paying a monthly fee for a space that largely storage things you don't use and probably don't want any longer. Timing is everything when it comes to moving your possessions out of a storage unit, so, you've got to be prepared in-advance. Read over your contract carefully to see when the next renewal period will actually occur, not just when the "final" rent payment is due.
Some self-storage contracts spell out terms in plain language while others might leave you utterly confused. It’s smart to brush up on lease agreements before you sign on the dotted line. --SpareFoot.com
The reason that this is important is because there are different dates in the contract: the date you must give notice of leaving, the date the final rent payment is due, and, the date of the next renewal period to avoid paying a late fee. Once you know the safe date of giving notice to get out of your contract, plan to be moved-out of the unit completely at least a few days before. After all, it's better to forfeit a little money to save much more. When you are certain about the time to move your stuff out, then do the following before your self storage unit contract expires:
- Take an inventory of what's inside your storage unit. Even if you've only rented the storage unit a couple of months, it's likely that you won't remember precisely what's inside it and all the various boxes. Go through everything and take an inventory of what's inside so you are in-the-know rather than in the dark.
- Organize and separate all items into categories. Now that you know what you have in the unit, it's time to get organized to make your exit go smoothly. Divide your things into three categories: stuff to keep, things to give away and donate to charity, and, items to throw away.
- Formulate a plan to pare down on possessions. Don't believe that stuff you are willing to part ways with will just disappear. Contact and go to local charitable organizations to see which are open to accepting what you have on-hand. Some charities will actually pickup what you're donating right from your storage unit.
- Remove everything you want to keep. At least a few days to a week before your contract expires after you've given notice, move all the stuff out you want to keep.
Now, it's time to get rid of what's left in the unit before it's too late. If you leave things in the unit too long, you're going to risk having to pay an expensive fee. Call AAA Rousse Services, a local Florida junk hauling and removal service to pickup whatever is left inside.