what's a decent storage company to store my belongings into when I go on the road?

I have some things that I may not want to or have to bring with me but want to keep anyway like personal belongings, electronics, guitars, etc. My belongings could fit in a small car (my car is a 2001 Toyota Celica), so I'm not sure if I should be taking these belonging with me on the road or store them at a "storage facility". I have no experience using such service so I wouldn't know what their price ranges are. Has anyone here ever used "storage" places?

 

I've used them a lot in between moves. They seem to be pretty consistant with each other as far as pricing goes. But I've noticed they set their prices according to the areas income level. The units I've rented cost a lot more to rent in North Jersey near NYC as compared to the ones I've rented in South Jersey and Florida. I seem to recall a 5' X 7' being about $50 a month.

But I like using them also. I know where my stuff is and it's locked and secured. Trying to store your stuff at a friends or relatives house is a hassle, people move, situations change. Nobody wants to be tripping over someone elses belongings, eventually your stuff is in someone elses way. Storage units are best.

 

When I moved to Colorado, I had to rent a 5x7 storage space for a couple months. It was $47 a month.

 

Always better to stick to the chain franchises (like Public Storage) or if you go with a mom and pop, do they own the land and building? How long in business? Read the contract! What is their liability in case of fire, flood or break in? If your stuff is worth paying up to $1000 a year for, then it has value. Renters insurance may cover the loss if any.

Access is also an issue for some. I could bobtail right up to the door of my unit. Temp control places not so much. I could get in 24/7 with a gate code.

Also be diligent with payment. Pay in advance, see if they will take a credit /debit card over the phone. Otherwise make sure your check or money order is timely, which can be problematic while on the road.

You sure don't want to watch your belongings featured on an episode of Storage Wars!

I kept my off season clothes and gear (snow suit, winter boots) in mine. Two years no problems!