When it comes to self storage, you have a lot of options with storage features. With so many types of storage units to choose from, it helps to know where to start. The most basic difference between various storage units is whether they’re interior or exterior units.
As opposed to exterior-access storage units, which are on the outskirts of a building and can be accessed via a single locked door, indoor storage units are only accessible through hallways inside a large building. Being located inside, interior storage units are better suited for many storage scenarios.
When you should use indoor storage
Indoor storage units certainly have some advantages over outdoor storage units, namely when it comes to security and temperature control. Because indoor storage units have more walls between your belongings and the outdoors, they’re generally more protective against theft and temperature-related damages. These characteristics make indoor self storage ideal for the following scenarios:
- Storing Smaller Items: When you’re storing smaller items, you won’t be carrying large, heavy items, so you won’t need the convenience of drive-up access.
- Storing Expensive Items: If you’re storing valuable items and want the most security, you would benefit from an indoor storage unit. With more doors and walls between your belongings and the outdoors, the chances of theft are diminished.
- Needing Climate Control: Climate-controlled storage units are far more effective when they’re located indoors. With nothing more than a door between the elements and your belongings in an external storage unit, temperatures can fluctuate more rapidly.
Different access types
Indoor storage units are commonly located in storage facilities that have a large building full of individual units for lease. In some cases, these facilities can be several stories high, so you often will have a choice between a ground-level unit and an upper-level storage unit.
- Ground-Level: Ground-level storage units are usually more expensive since they’re more convenient. When storing heavy items that you don’t want to carry a long distance, consider paying the additional cost for a ground-level unit.
- Upper-Level: Since upper-level storage units are less convenient, they can typically be found for a slightly more affordable cost. If you don’t have heavy items or don’t plan on accessing your storage unit frequently, an upper-level unit is a great way to save money.
Security advantages
By going with an indoor storage unit, you’ll have the built-in security perk of being located deep within the infrastructure of a large building. The more doors and walls you can put between your belongings and the street or parking lot, the better. With secure access to both the main building and your individual storage unit, your belongings will be very safe while in storage.
When not to use indoor storage
Of course, there are also scenarios in which it wouldn’t be beneficial to use an indoor storage unit. Whether it’s due to ease of access or because you need the convenience of drive-up access, there are many times when it would be better to rent an exterior storage unit.
- Large Storage Demands: If you’re using self storage to hold all of your belongings during the process of a move or a home renovation, then an indoor storage unit might not be the best solution. Exterior storage units are far easier to access with large storage loads.
- Storing Vehicles: There aren’t many indoor storage facilities that can accommodate a car, boat, or motorcycle. When storing your motorized vehicles, you’ll need to have drive-up access.
- Frequent Access: The more you plan on using your storage unit, the more important it is to have quick access. Drive-up access and exterior storage units are far easier to get into, so they can be more convenient for frequent storage users.
