Whether you know it or not, advertisements claiming secure self storage are a bit misleading in many instances. The word “secure” can lead to much confusion and can mean so many different things to so many different people.
In other words, not all mini storage is the same with regards to security, and that is what this article is about. We will break down the word “security” as it applies to self storage, so that you have a better idea, going in, as you look for secure self storage.
We are Blue Mound 287 Self Storage, serving the Greater Fort Worth area. Call us at 817-439-1380 for more information about renting quality and safe self storage.
The four stages of secure self storage
The four stages, or levels, of secure self storage are:
- Fenced property
- Locks on main gate and individual storage units
- Video monitoring
- On-site management
We won’t spend much time on each of these. We believe they are basically self-explanatory, and we believe having all four levels of security are crucial in providing topnotch security for customers. The one stage we do want to elaborate on, a bit, is the second in the list.
Padlocks are not sufficient security for a storage unit. They can be cut easily, with bolt cutters, in a matter of seconds. The only truly secure locks are computerized access cards, and the most secure storage buildings have them for access through the main gate as well as on individual storage units. Those cards are basically intruder-proof.
How important are your possessions?
If you are looking to store extra furniture i.e. lawn furniture during the winter, perhaps the four stages of security is not that important. Even if your furniture is stolen, you will only be out a couple hundred dollars. But if you are storing collectibles of family heirlooms, that is quite another story. If you are looking for auto storage, or boat storage, the losses could be in the thousands.
You must weigh the value of a potential loss against the cost of the storage unit and the level of security you are willing to pay for.
Can you afford all four stages of security?
We believe, in a decent-sized city, the answer to this question is yes. In a large population, there are quite a few storage facilities to choose from, and that supply situation means competition for your business. In Fort Worth, at Blue Mound 287 Self Storage, we provide all four levels. We must in order to assure our customers that their possessions are as safe as is humanly possible to achieve. Shop around. Compare prices vs the levels of security. That is the only truly intelligent way to choose a storage unit.
What if you can’t find storage facilities with all four levels of security?
If you can’t afford all four stages of security, find the best deal possible. You have no other choice. If you are forced to use padlocks on your units, find the biggest, baddest padlock available. And continue to pester the self storage management to improve their security.
A word about Blue Mound 287 Self Storage
We wouldn’t be in business as long as we have been if we didn’t provide secure self storage. We are locally owned and operated, and we believe in one guiding principle: treat the possessions of our customers like they are our own possessions.