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Storage box lease agreement to watch out for

14/10/2019 by Shane Kennedy

Storage box lease agreement to watch out for


Storage boxes for lease are easy to come by on the Gold Coast. More and more people are downsizing to townhouses or units but just can't part with the precious items they no longer have room for. It may even be more affordable to buy or rent a smaller home plus a storage box, rather than choosing a home that's big enough for all of your possessions. If you're in need of storage on the Gold Coast all you need to do is determine what you need from a leased box and know how to find the best agreement for you.

What do you need from a storage box


The price of storage on the Gold Coast will be determined by the size of the box you lease and the length of the lease. Therefore, to make sure you're not paying for storage and items in the lease agreement you don't need, consider:

- The volume of items you need to store.
- Whether you want to store your items short term while you move to a new house for example, or as a long-term solution.
- Whether you want to be able to access your storage box at any time, as not all lease agreements allow 24/7 access.
- How far away your storage box is, and whether it will be convenient for you to drive back and forth for access.
- Whether your items have special temperature requirements, for example, wine, musical instruments, paintings.
- Whether you want a climate-controlled storage box, to avoid the mould and mildew which can be common on the Gold Coast with the change of seasons.
- Whether your items are of significant value and therefore require onsite security, live video monitoring or specific insurance.

How to find the best storage box lease agreement


Leasing a storage box means entering into a contract with the owner of the storage facility. Therefore, you need to be clear on your rights, what you do and don't have access to, and who is responsible if something goes wrong. Therefore, check your storage box lease agreement for:

- Security, alarms and surveillance to ensure your items are safe in storage.
- Protection for your items such as weatherproofing, climate-control and pest control.
- The inclusions which may be covered under the storage facility's insurance.
- Whether you need to change the locks from the previous occupant, and if that is your own personal cost.
- Whether you can negotiate a discount if you are leasing for an extended period.
- Flexible payment options to suit your budget and your cash flow.
- Any early release fees if you want to cancel your lease agreement early.
- Any deposit required, and whether that is refundable if you change your mind, or at the end of the lease agreement.

Leasing a storage box is a great way to free up space in your home. However, while your items in storage are out of sight and out of mind, you still want to know they're safe. You can tell a lot about the safety, security and reputation of a storage facility by their lease agreement, so take the time to compare and enquire before you store your possessions.

3 Categories of people who need storage boxes!

03/10/2019 by Shane Kennedy
3 Categories of People Who Need Storage Boxes

Storage boxes are handy when it comes to storing equipment, office items, home supplies etc. Since all items come in a variety of different shapes and sizes, it can be hard to store and protect your items sufficiently from damage that can be caused by mishandling or bad weather conditions. Storage boxes help in storing your supplies in a location that is easy to access, as well as protecting objects from damage.

So, who could benefit most greatly from using storage boxes?

Event organisers

Planning for events such as festivals, fundraisers, fun-runs, weddings, and concerts can be chaotic. An average person can get confused with the number of equipment parts and supplies that make up a successful event. How can event organisers store equipment safely and in a manner that accommodates all supplies? This is where storage boxes come in handy, thanks to the space and organisation that they provide.

Portable storage boxes are even better because they help in ensuring that supplies, merchandise and equipment stay safe as they are transported from one event to another. Storage boxes help event organisers to focus their efforts on the success of an event, rather than wondering where the things they need are and if they're in good condition, because the safety of their equipment during storage and transit are assured by the storage boxes.

College students

Students tend to have a tough time during the end of the year when they are required to move from their dorms. Packing their furniture, mini-fridge, electronics and clothing can be quite a herculean task for both students and parents. At the same time, parents are often not over the moon with the number of items that will occupy their garage. So, what is the best solution for both instances? A portable storage box will help to pack a student's belongings from school, and also act as the storage unit for safekeeping the items. Once universities reopen, the same box can be used to deliver the items to the student's new dorm.

Homeowners

There are lots of opportunities for homeowners to undertake home renovations. During a kitchen renovation, portable storage boxes are perfect for storing small things, such as mugs, right up to larger kitchen accessories, such as blenders. Your kitchen appliances and items will have the safe storage space you need. It's easy to work around your home when you know that your home items are safely stored in a durable and convenient storage box.

Additionally, if it is hard to access your attic and you want a better way of storing your home items, you'll probably need a storage box. One of the major applications of storage boxes is that they give your home extra space. You don't have to clutter your house or garage with things like seasonal clothing, knowing your clothing is safely stored away. Storage boxes are great solutions for homeowners who like their home well-organised.

Self-storage Rental Agreement, What You Should Know

26/09/2019 by Shane Kennedy

Storage Made Easy

If you have never used self-storage before you may be unfamiliar with the process. At Big Box Self Storage, we like to keep things simple by being upfront about the services we provide and the prices we charge. 


Unfortunately, that is not the case with some of our competitors. That's why we always recommend reading the rental agreement before you sign up for space. That way you won't find any unexpected fees or nasty surprises when you come to pay.

Here are seven things you need to look out for: 

1. What's included with the price?


Always check what is included with the price of your unit. Some storage companies charge extra for access while others stipulate you must purchase their insurance. At Big Box, we are upfront about our pricing. We charge a $15 cleaning and fumigation fee before you move in and you will need to purchase a padlock. These are the only extras you have to pay. Our price includes 24-hour access and we don't stipulate you purchase our insurance, although we do provide it as an option. 

2. What can you store in your unit?


Always check what you are allowed to store in your unit. Some storage companies place restrictions on certain goods or charge extra for unusual items. At Big Box, we only prohibit products which give off noxious fumes and we don't allow perishables such as fruit and vegetables. Other than that you can store anything you like in your unit at no extra cost. 

3. Is the agreement flexible


Some storage company agreements include penalties which are charged if the agreement is terminated early. At Big Box, we don't charge early termination penalties, but we do ask that you provide us with 30 days notice. You can cancel your agreement at any time but if you fail to provide 30 days notice we reserve the right to not refund any unused days. We also allow you to increase or decrease the size of your unit at any time without suffering any financial penalty. 

4. What security is provided?


Your agreement should stipulate what security measures are provided as standard. Some companies charge extra for monitored alarms and CCTV. At Big Box, all our units are protected by CCTV 24 hours a day and we monitor access to the site at all times. The only extra security charge you will have to pay is for the personal padlock on your unit. 

5. Does the price include insurance?


Some storage company agreements stipulate you must purchase insurance for your unit. At Big Box, we don't stipulate you buy our insurance but we do recommend it for valuable goods and we do provide it as an option. This gives you the freedom of using a third-party insurance company or avoiding having to pay insurance for low-value items. 

6. The cost of extra services or equipment


Most self-storage companies provide a range of extra services. Such services include the use of forklift or pallet trucks, hired labour, delivery acceptance and packaging. The price of these extra services should be stipulated in the rental agreement. At Big Box, we make it clear what is included in the price of your unit and how much we charge for extra services. That way you won't get any nasty surprises when you receive your bill. 

7. What happens if you don't pay on time?


You should pay particular attention to the section about late payment. Some storage companies charge late payment fees, while others auction off your goods after only 7 days delay. At Big Box, we are upfront about what happens if you are late paying your fee. Your unit will be sealed and you won't be able to access it until payment is made. We will work with you to clear your debt and will only auction off your goods as a last resort.

If you would like more information about renting space from Big Box Self Storage take a look at our FAQs or give us a call on 07 5537-6633. Alternatively, you can complete the contact form <a href="http://www.bigboxselfstorage.com.au/contact-big-box">here</a>. We provide the lowest price self-storage on the Gold Coast and you won't have to pay any hidden fees or surcharges.

Affordable Self-storage Boxes in the Gold Coast

30/08/2019 by Shane Kennedy


Are you contemplating getting a self-storage box to store your valuables? 

People tend to hold on to items or furniture they can't bear to get rid of, which makes finding secure storage at and affordable price essential. 


Storage boxes are affordable alternatives and a perfect way of securing your possessions for a specified period. According to the Sydney Morning Herald, there is expected to be a 10 to 12 per cent increase in storage facilities, although occupancy has fallen by 2 per cent in the eastern seaboard. According to Ibisworld in 2017, the weighted average fee rate is AUS $318.9 per square metre in Australia.

Here are the five parameters of affordable storage boxes

Size of the storage unit

The cost you pay for a storage unit will depend on the size of the unit you choose. Therefore, you should ensure that you have taken a full inventory of your possessions beforehand to ascertain the number of items you need to store. Sizes range from 1 sq.mtr to 27 sq.mtr. 

Once you've decided on the size of the storage box you need, you can then research and check the options and rates that are charged by different facilities for this space. 

Period of storage

If you're simply looking for a temporary or short-term storage solution, most options on the market will be charged at an affordable rate. However, if you're searching for long-term storage space, it'll be prudent to choose storage units that have good monthly rates. Most importantly, make sure that your long-term storage doesn't attract more costs over time. 

Amenities

Another factor that may influence the prices charged at a facility is availability. For instance, a 24-hour storage facility may be more convenient if you'd like to access your items any time of the day or night, but this will likely cost you more. 
Additionally, well-lit storage facilities, CCTV surveillance, and cold storage for perishable items are also some of the amenities that you may need to consider. However, these will attract higher charges compared to standard storage boxes.

Location

Another factor you'll have to consider is the location of the storage facility from your home. Choosing a nearby facility will be more beneficial and convenient, which is especially the case if you want to check on your items regularly. It also costs less in terms of travelling and fuel costs to access your storage unit. 

Type of items to store

Above all, you should select a unit that will be practical for the kind of items you're going to store. For instance, you should choose a unit that is climate controlled if you're going to store delicate electrical appliances. If not appropriately stored, such items may wear down if left in storage for an extended period of time. Similarly, household items like boxes and furniture may only require standard storage, so don't pay for amenities you don't need. 

The bottom line

If you are searching for an affordable and secure facility to store your items, the Gold Coast region has numerous self-storage companies. Check out the facilities in the area and research their pocket-friendly rates for storing your home appliances, furniture, and other essential valuables.

Storage Box Top 5 Reasons Why Its Easy to Use and Maintain

16/08/2019 by Shane Kennedy

De-clutter your life!

Whether you own a business that needs additional space on a daily basis, or you have an overflow of furniture from moving house, or anything in between, a storage box is an easy, effective solution to help de-clutter your life. 

What most people don't realise is how effortless a storage box is to maintain; here are the top five reasons a storage box is the easiest item you will ever have!

1. Set and Forget

Once you have picked your ideal storage box, loaded it up with your furniture, boxes, stock or equipment, simply lock the door behind you and forget it is there. Storage boxes don't tend to attract dust, dirt or a lot of moisture, so you can simply organise the box to your desired layout, leave and know it will be exactly as you left it when you return. 

2. You Only Have to Come back When You Need To

If you have more stock to load, or need something from your box, these are the only times you actually need to visit. You are not obliged to check in on your storage box at any time, nor do you need to visit just for the sake of visiting. The flexibility of coming and going is completely yours!

3. There's more money in your pocket

Storage units are extremely cost-effective for the level of convenience you receive. While you can pay for your storage box monthly, the costs of running the unit (heating/cooling, staff, security) are taken care of by the storage facility. Moving machinery, like forklifts and trolleys, will also be available at the facility, which means you have access to expensive equipment with no additional cost. 

4. Someone else does the worrying for you

As we mentioned before, you don't need to come and visit your storage box every day, purely because security and monitoring systems are doing the security work for you. With locks on every individual box, coded gates, alarm codes specific to each individual, and security controlled lighting systems, CCTV,  you know your storage box is in capable hands. The access to your individual box is yours; the pin code or keys to your padlock belong to you, and you possess the choice as to who is given access to that specific lock. 

5. You can alter your space as your needs change

The storage box is available to you for as long as you need it. Your demands for storage can come and go; if you are using the space for business, stock inventory may inflate suddenly or diminish over time, for example. With the flexibility to alter your storage box whenever the need arises, it's easy for you to switch up your space when you need to. 

 When the time is right for you, you can browse the new storage options and choose a new box quickly. Moving from one box to another is a quick process, as you only need to move your items within the same storage facility using the trollies available at the centre. Simple!

Online Self Storage Booking Made Simple

10/06/2019 by Shane Kennedy

It's just so simple!

Say goodbye to the confusing, complex and lengthy self-storage booking process of old, and let Big Box Self Storage deliver the customer experience you deserve. 


We all love the easy, breezy feeling of having the products and services we need a mouse click away. With Big Box Self Storage, located on the sunny Gold Coast, securing your storage spot through online booking is a seamless end-to-end process. 

Book online with Big Box Self Storage

Browsing and booking your Gold Coast self storage solution shouldn't be an arduous task. After all, the stress of sorting and storing those belongings we love but don't have the space to stash is frustrating enough. 

Big Box Self Storage has designed an online booking system that eliminates the hassle other storage companies are synonymous with, and instead answers every question you have before, during and after storing your wares. 

Our online booking form is easy to fill out and quickly reserves the self storage solution you require. Simply fill out your personal information, the date you require your self-storage arrangement to commence, the size of the Gold Coast storage unit you need and whether you will be moving yourself or with the assistance of a professional removalist. There's even space to add any additional notes our team may need to make the process go as smoothly as possible. We'll take care of the rest!

Self storage solutions to fit your needs

Big Box Self Storage has a range of storage units in various sizes and dimensions to suit small to large storage requirements. Located in Labrador on the Gold Coast, Big Box Self Storage is monitored by 24/7 surveillance and fully fenced to ensure your belongings are safe and secure. 

You don't even need to visit our facility to browse the storage unit sizes we offer. Our expert team can supply you with a storage unit estimation and its cost [www.bigboxselfstorage.com.au/get-storage-quote] through our online Quote tool, or you can fill out our simple form to receive a call back. 

If you already know the storage unit size you require, simply select from the drop down box in our online booking form and submit your reservation. It's that easy!

Big Box Self Storage has unit sizes that range from our smallest solutions at 1.8 x 1.5 x 3.0m right through to our biggest boys that span 12.0 x 6.0 x 4.0m. Whether it's a few choice belongings you wish to keep safe, or an entire household of belongings that require safekeeping - we've got you covered. 

Our Box Shop  even sells everything a big move needs, be it storage boxes, furniture covers, wrapping materials or even locks. Order everything you need through our online store, and have them arrive to your home quickly and efficiently. 

Expert assistance, exceptional customer service

The team at Big Box Self Storage are the Gold Coast's trusted experts in the self-storage industry. Friendly, informed and efficient, we are here to answer any or all of your self storage questions. 

If you require the assistance of removalists to relocate your home or office space to our facility in Labrador, we have a list of removal companies we highly recommend here [www.bigboxselfstorage.com.au/what-is-self-storage/recommended-removalists]. 

We look forward to providing excellent service to you throughout your self storage experience!New Post

5 Reasons Why Self-storage Units are Easy to Use and maintain

08/05/2019 by Shane Kennedy


People rent self-storage spaces for a variety of reasons. 

Some people move houses and require a safe place to temporarily store their possessions during the transition, while others make use of self-storage units to store and organise bulk shipments of goods. Whether it's for personal or commercial purposes, if you're looking to rent a storage space and want to know if they're easy to use and maintain, read on to find out more:


1. Convenient and Low-maintenance

Self-storage facilities provide unparalleled convenience as they offer seven-day, 24-hour access to your storage space. Since access is free and unlimited, you can choose when you want to add or remove items from your storage unit at no extra cost. On-site forklifts ensure that pallet deliveries are received with ease, and drive-up roller door spaces make storage use quick and easy. Moreover, moving your goods and items around is made effortless with the convenience of pallet jacks and trolleys. Packing materials such as boxes, tape and wrapping paper for all your storage needs are also available for purchase on-site.

2. Cost-effective 

No yearly leases are required when you rent a self-storage space because you pay on a month-to-month basis, and you don't need to pay a large bond to rent a storage space. Rental rates for self-storage spaces are not only competitive with the cost of office space, but are also made more affordable with the discounts that you may receive when you pay for periods in advance. 

You won't have to employ someone to receive deliveries as you are given a free receipt and dispatch service. Some storage facilities will even offer free move-in services so you can save on truck hire fees, or will help you find a reliable removalist to help you with your moving. 

3. Flexible Terms


Self-storage units guarantee a large degree of flexibility when it comes to downsizing and up-scaling. As your business changes, you can easily alter the amount of storage space you require. Furthermore, you can store your goods and items month to month, and you can provide very short notice when you decide to vacate. 

4. Many options for all your storage requirements


No matter how big, small or oddly-shaped your possessions are, self-storage facilities will have a solution for you. Storage spaces include storage units and boxes. Cardboard storage boxes come in a range of sizes, and are ideal for moving or storing the contents of your house and your office facility. For big, bulky vehicles like caravans and boats that are inconvenient to move or store due to the large amount of space they occupy, purpose-built storage units are available for rent.

5. Secure

You don't have to worry about your possessions or look after them while they're stored in a self-storage facility. When you rent your own lock-up space, the keys for the storage space are yours for safekeeping. Reputable storage facilities deploy a range of security measures to prevent theft, burglary and any other illegal behaviour. 

At a minimum, storage facilities have on-site security personnel during business hours, 24-hour video surveillance cameras, interior and exterior security lighting, gated access to the premises, and unauthorised access alarms. Lockable containers for confidential and sensitive documents are also available for purchase. 

Overall, whether you decide to store your items on a short-term or long-term basis, self-storage facilities offer easy, convenient and secure storage solutions for homeowners and business owners alike.

Why Should You Book your Storage Unit with Us?

22/04/2019 by Shane Kennedy

Choosing the right Storage

Before choosing a self-storage company it is important that you consider what each company offers before signing on the dotted line. Not all storage companies are the same, and while many advertise low rates, this usually means they don't have adequate security or provide 24 hr access to your unit. So here are five reasons why you should choose BIG BOX Self Storage for your home or business storage.


1. Space

A lack of space is the reason why you are looking for a storage unit in the first place. But unlike other storage providers, we don't limit the size of your unit to a few square feet. BIG BOX has a wide range of storage options from small units for personal belongings to large secure warehouses capable of storing a caravan or boat. So no matter what you need to store, BIG BOX Self Storage can provide you with the space you need at a price you can afford. 

2. Security

Security is likely to be top of your agenda when choosing a self-storage company. At BIG BOX we make security a top priority. Our facility is protected by a perimeter fence which prevents unauthorised access to the building and grounds. Authorised users can access the premises 24 hrs a day using a secure PIN code. 

For added peace of mind, CCTV is in operation both inside and outside the building. This helps to monitor who accesses the site and when with all data recorded should a problem occur. The registration numbers of all vehicles accessing the site are also recorded and alarms are fitted to all storage units.

3. No long-term commitment

Unlike other storage companies on the Gold Coast, BIG BOX doesn't tie you down with long contracts. You simply pay month to month for the amount of space you need. There are no yearly contracts or early termination fees. Just sign-up for the space you need and move your stuff in.

4. Convenience and flexibility

Because BIG BOX doesn't have any long-term contracts it is easy to scale your storage up or down depending on your requirements. If you need more space, no problem, just contact us and we'll arrange it for you. We can even provide support to help you move storage units if necessary. 

For heavy or bulky items a forklift truck is available on site along with a range of pallet jacks and trolleys. Cardboard boxes are also available for purchase to help keep your goods organised. Further services are also available on request, so contact the store manager for more information. 

5. Value-added service

As a local company, BIG BOX Self Storage is able to provide a level of service which the big national chains find difficult to replicate. We work closely with a number of trusted local service providers to help provide a wide range of value-added services to our customers. 

So if you need help moving home, we can recommend a reputable removals company. If you need a package delivered urgently, we can arrange for same-day delivery using a local courier. If you need documents destroyed, we can arrange for secure document shredding on site. No matter what you need, we are here to help.

If you would like more information about our range of storage options or would like to arrange a tour of our facility, get in touch with us today on 1800 244 269 to discuss your requirements.

What is Caravan Storage?

26/03/2019 by Shane Kennedy


Caravan storage is where you keep your caravan between trips.

 It's the resting place for your caravan when you're not using it.

Caravan storage is the best option for caravan owners for multiple reasons. Let's run through the main ones.

1.Space

Caravans are large and they take up space. Not everyone has a garage, carport or driveway that's big enough to accommodate a caravan. And if you do store your caravan at home, it can be inconvenient to move it when you need to use the space it occupies. In contrast, a caravan storage is purposely designed for storing big, bulky vehicles such as caravans.

2.Security

A caravan storage facility keeps your caravan safe and secure. How? At Big Box Self Storage on the Gold Coast, we use the following top-level security measures:
  • Strong perimeter fencing to prevent unauthorised access to the premises
  • Closed-circuit television (CCTV) which operates 24/7 and is fully recorded
  • Excellent on-site security lighting 
  • PIN code access for clients.

3.Protection from the elements

The Gold Coast has a fantastic climate. However, if you leave your van exposed to the elements, there is a risk of damage. Rubber fittings, in particular, can be severely degraded and even destroyed by prolonged exposure to the sun. 
If you put a cover over your caravan, strong winds can loosen it and any flapping will scratch and damage the paintwork of your van.
If you park your van under a tree, there is potential for damage from falling tree branches. There is also the problem of bird droppings, which can be difficult to remove if they become hardened. When you keep your caravan in a secure caravan storage, you can avoid all of these nature-related problems.

4.Convenience and flexibility

It's important when you choose a caravan storage, that the storage options suit your particular needs, whether short, medium or long term. A good caravan storage will provide convenient and flexible storage solutions for your situation.

5.Peace of Mind

One of the biggest advantages of using a caravan storage facility is that it gives caravan owners peace of mind. When your van is in safe and trustworthy hands, you have one less thing to worry about.

Tips for Storage

If you have decided to use a caravan storage facility, then make sure you prepare your van appropriately. Here are some quick tips for storing your van.

  • Clean the fridge and cupboards

Remove all food items from your fridge and cupboards and clean them. To prevent mold, mildew and nasty odours, leave fridge and cupboard doors open. 

  • Clean the toilet
Empty and clean the caravan toilet. 
  • Empty the water tanks
Drain all water from the water tanks. Before going on the road again, use clean water to flush out the tank systems. 
  • Gas
Check the policy of your caravan storage provider - some places don't allow storage of gas bottles for safety reasons. 

Would you like to put your caravan to bed for a while? If you've got any questions about caravan storage, our friendly staff at Big Box Self Storage will help you. Call us today to find out more about our cost-effective, highly secure caravan storage options.

What is Boat Storage?

19/03/2019 by Shane Kennedy

For most people who own a boat, 

sailing is not an all-weather, all-year-round affair. 

During the more inclement months, boats are often left moored, or towed away to be stored in a shed or similar building. Unfortunately, both these options can have a number of disadvantages, which is why using secure, bespoke storage for boats is becoming increasingly popular. Take a look at the benefits which using purpose-built storage that shields your boat from the elements and theft can bring:

Protection from the Weather and the Water

Almost inevitably, a boat with a hull that's submerged for months at a time is going to need plenty of TLC to keep it in usable condition. The bottom of the boat will need to be scraped to remove weed or water life which has begun to grow on it whilst it has been stationary. In addition, prolonged contact with the water may have begun to weaken joins and joints, meaning that waterproofing and similar repairs will be required. Not only does this have a cost implication, it also requires additional inconvenience and time, as well as the need to potentially move your boat several times. In comparison, a boat in dry storage is protected from the vagaries of the water: if the hull is in good condition when the boat is stored, it will remain so until needed again.

No UV light!

Sunlight is well-known to accelerate the deterioration of a wide range of materials. From causing paint to chip and fade through to weakening wooden fixtures and causing ropes to degenerate, for boats, just like humans, unnecessary exposure to sunlight should be avoided. Indoor boat storage solves this problem, ensuring the boat is safe from UV damage when not in use.

Added Security

Boat storage consists of a suitably sized area that's protected from the elements. With enhanced security measures in place, the chances of anyone taking your boat when you're not around to look after it are very low. The boat storage we provide not only features lockable storage, but the facility is also protected by good external lighting, gating, on-site security personnel and CCTV monitoring. All these measures are designed to keep your boat safe. With protection far in excess of what most people are able to put in place, if you want your pride and joy in safe hands, storage is the way to go.

Flexible Terms and Easy Access to your Boat

When you use boat storage, you can come and go as you wish, removing your boat when you need it. We offer a selection of storage options, tailoring rental to suit your specific requirements. Whether you've got limited space at home to store your boat, are taking a break from sailing and want to make sure your boat is well looked after or are looking for a cost-effective boat storage solution that's also safe and weatherproof, our storage facility is an optimal solution. Suitable for boats of almost any size, please get in touch to find out more.

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