How to choose the right storage space?

The most convenient way to pick storage providers and facilities is based on pricing, right? That may not entirely be the case. Our learnings below will help clarify what we mean.

Quality of Service

Most operators in a nascent market, like goods storage services, are generally ones motivated only financially. Pricing, albeit an important factor, should not be the only criterion of judgement while picking a provider and space.

"A service is defined as the action of helping or doing work for someone." – Websters

Storage services need to be a wholesome, well-rounded idea that makes a significant impact on a customers convenience matrix. You are, after all entrusting the provider with goods with sufficient intrinsic value to you, to be deemed ‘storage worthy’. So, watch for the following policies and behaviour exhibited by the provider that will impact your experience with them.

Storage Facility

Facility confidence and integrity is perhaps the most important aspect you need to focus on; do they allow you access to review, when moving your goods in at the outset, and do they provide access when required? If they do not, there’s a strong chance that the space in which your goods are being stored is compromised in some manner, and they do not want it focussed on. Check on CCTV systems and physical barriers for security, temperature/humidity monitors for stored goods integrity, clear aisles for inventory movement and item unit labelling for inventory management to prevent mixing between consignments.

Hidden Costs

Hidden costs are another favourite market ploy. If you’re getting the impression that you are getting a deal that’s too good to be true, it probably is. Addition of statutory taxes, insurance premiums, handling charges and processing fees will make your final spend outlay far greater than initially made out to be on the quotation.

Transportation

Most damage to goods occurs at the transport and handling stage during the onboarding process. Storage is after all a passive exercise; chances of damages are low during this phase. Ensure that the storage provider is equipped to provide a smooth moving experience and has all the credentials in place to undertake your move. ‘Fly by night’ operators are common and plentiful in the logistics segment. Due diligence in picking the right mover, may save you significant duress down the road.

Choose wisely, store easy!