This is true with all kinds of storage, but you can especially enjoy the benefits that self-storage has to offer by taking the time to find a solution that’s exactly right for you. After all, there are now many different self-storage options on the market, and they may have you asking what’s best – indoor or outdoor. 24-hour or not? And, as we’ll be discussing here, perhaps the main question when you’re first seeking storage Salisbury – short-term or long-term?

Short-term and long-term rentals offer something quite different, and choosing between the two might be harder than you’d think. Luckily, we’ve put together a handy guide to help you settle on either short or long-term storage at long last. 

The Differences Between Short-Term and Long-Term Storage

You may assume that you already know the difference between short and long-term storage, but there are far more differences than you might imagine.

Most obviously, of course, is the duration for which you can expect to store your belongings. Generally speaking, short-term storage tends to last for around one to three months. While it is sometimes possible to extend a short-term unit, there is a risk of losing your storage to a booking made by somebody else towards the end of your term. By comparison, long-term storage units tend to be rentable for an entire year, or more in some cases. 

Duration aside, other differences between short and long-term storage choices include – 

  • Cost: Short-term storage units tend to be priced monthly, and may cost proportionally more than long-term storage units, which are paid semi-annually or annually in advance, and tend to benefit from loyalty discounts. 
  • Contract flexibility: Short-term storage tends to offer higher levels of flexibility. If you’re uncertain how long you’ll need that unit, the option to extend your rental duration is especially useful, while monthly payments ensure you only pay for what you need. By comparison, long-term rentals are paid upfront, meaning that you may lose money if you don’t end up using your unit for the entirety of that paid period. 
  • Services offered: Long-term storage units tend to enjoy services that include regular cleaning, climate control, and 24/7 security, which you might not find with short-term units that have less need for them. However, short-term units do tend to benefit more from services like packaging and simplified removals that might not be necessary for something long-term. 

What to Consider When Choosing Between Short-Term Vs Long-Term Storage Salisbury

There are a range of factors to consider when choosing between short and long-term storage. With the differences already listed in mind, you’ll especially want to think about – 

The Length of Your Intended Rental

While it’s by no means the only factor, the duration for which you intend to use your storage unit should play some part in your decision. Remember, you can typically extend a short-term storage rental, so short-term options shouldn’t be completely off your list if you are looking for something a little longer-lasting. That said, if you know that you’ll be using a unit for just a few months, perhaps because you’re moving house or redecorating, it will typically make the most sense to opt for something short-term. Equally, with discounts available for longer-term rentals, these are often the most logical, cost-effective option if you know you want to store your things indefinitely. 

Your Storage Requirements

You should also consider your specific storage requirements. Let’s say, for instance, that you’re between properties and don’t know how long it will be until you move. Generally speaking, flexible short-term contracts could end up being the least stressful, most affordable option. By comparison, if you want somewhere to store your seasonal items for a long period, then long-term storage units will typically be the best choice. 

Your Payment Preferences

As mentioned, while monthly fees are typical with short-term storage, a long-term unit tends to require advanced payment in one fixed amount. As such, you’ll also want to think about which payment solution would work best for you. After all, even if you want to extend your short-term rental later on, you may still save money by paying upfront for a year that you potentially don’t need. Equally, you may find monthly payments easier to manage than a large sum in one go. 

The amenities you require

Admittedly, most short-term storage units now benefit from some great amenities, but it’s still worth thinking about this depending on what you want to store and for how long. For example, if you’re looking to store a car that you aren’t using right now, services like regular unit cleaning, climate control, and general maintenance, are preferable and most commonly available with long-term unit hires. By comparison, if you’re in the process of moving house and would benefit from packing and moving services, then you may find it easier to access these via a short-term storage company. 

The Items You’re Storing

While it may seem like a less obvious factor, it’s also worth sparing a thought for the items that you intend to store. For instance, some short-term units won’t have capacity for large-scale items like cars, while general long-term units might not be the best care option for, say, a collection of antiques. By doing your research, you can ensure that you choose the option that’s best able to cater for your belongings and keep them in prime condition for when you need them next. 

Trust Self Storage Australia With Your Storage Salisbury

We offer units to meet a wide range of needs here at Self Storage Australia, and we’re on hand to discuss exactly what you require from your storage Salisbury. No matter your budget, items, or duration, you’re certain to find your ideal storage across our impressive four storage centre locations.

So, don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss your short or long-term storage Salisbury requirements today.