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 in the price?
Always check what is included in 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 that 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 that 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 here. We provide the lowest price self-storage on the Gold Coast and you won’t have to pay any hidden fees or surcharges.