What is Gate Access for Self-Storage & Why Your Storage Provider Should Have It

Posted on November 21, 2024 by John McCoy

The Importance of Gate Access for Self-Storage Facilities

When you’re considering different storage facilities for your extra items, there are several key factors that can help you choose the best one. One of the most important ones is definitely security—you want to know your stuff is in a safe space. If you’re not sure what features to look for, we recommend prioritizing gate access. It serves as one of the first lines of defense against unauthorized visitors and is a key feature that every facility should have.

But what is gate access for self-storage exactly and how does it work? Let’s break it down a bit and help you understand how to find a trusted and safe storage unit provider.

“Chain Link Fence” by Sharon Mollerus is licensed under CC BY 2.0.

What is Gate Access for Self-Storage?

When choosing a self-storage facility, secure gate access should be high on your priority list. Gate access for self-storage units is a key security feature designed to protect the facility from unwanted visitors. It refers to the installation of a physical gate entry system that controls who can enter and exit the premises.

Gate access plays a crucial part in self-storage security, preventing unauthorized access and protecting your belongings from robbery.

Gate access systems typically include a combination of physical barriers, such as gates, and electronic access control systems. Some elements they can include are video surveillance, RFID locks, key fob or card systems, smart locks, etc.

Types of Gate Access

It’s helpful to know a little bit more about the types of gates available.

There are several types of gates and access control technology available for self-storage facilities. The three main ones are slide gates, swing gates, and vertical pivot gates.

Slide gates move horizontally along a fixed track so they don’t take up a lot of space. They’re also known for being durable, standing up to harsh weather conditions without getting bent out of shape. Then, there are swing gates that take a bit more space as they open like regular doors, either inward or outward. They open using a user’s credentials and stay open long enough to allow you to enter or exit the premises. Lastly, the vertical pivot gate swings up and down upon opening and closing, allowing quick and easy access.

Each type of gate system has its own unique benefits and drawbacks, and the right choice will depend on the specific needs and layout of the facility. They work best when paired with access control systems like keypads, card readers, and biometric scanners, among other options.

Benefits of Gate Access for Self-Storage Facilities

Gate systems make storage facilities much safer—plain and simple. That’s why they should be a top priority on your checklist when choosing your storage provider. Beyond the obvious security benefits of self-storage gate access, here’s why it’s a must-have in self-storage industry:

Enhanced security: Gate access systems provide an additional layer of security for self-storage facilities, helping to prevent theft and vandalism. Nothing is more important than that!
Authorized access only: They control gate access and ensure only approved visitors enter the premises. This means your belongings are well-protected and in the right hands.
Convenient access: With a gate access control system, you can come and go as you please without worrying about intruders or compromising security.
Access records: Many storage facilities keep record of activity and who enters and exits the premises. This is quite a convenient feature in case of any safety concern or issue.
Improved overall customer experience: Self-storage gates can also help to improve the overall customer experience, by providing convenient and secure access to storage units.

So, those are the key benefits of gate access for self-storage. Ultimately, the biggest reason to choose a self-storage business with a gate access system is for your peace of mind.

Let’s face it; you want to store your items in a storage unit and not have to think about them—that is until you need them. A secure storage provider ensures you can do just that.

How Gate Access Systems Work

Gate systems are designed to be user-friendly. Here’s how they generally work.

When you arrive at the facility, you’ll simply use the access method provided when you stored your items. This could either be a keypad code, keycard, or even a smart app to open the gate. This kind of access control ensures only authorized visitors enter the premises but also keeps the intruders away. Plus, the system typically logs each entry and exit, which makes it easy to track activity.

It’s quite a simple yet effective way to protect the facility while allowing you to come and go with ease whenever you want to access your stuff or bring more of them into your storage unit.

Why We Implemented Gate Access at My Storage Box

Now that you’ve got a better understanding of gate access for self-storage and its importance, you can see why we made it a priority at My Storage Box. We take security very seriously and our motto is to make this experience as seamless as possible for you. And that’s why we go the extra mile when it comes to protecting your belongings.

We firmly believe that security should never be compromised when it comes to self-storage. Gate access is just one of the many ways we’ve committed to keeping your stuff safe.

Our storage units are secure, gated, and convenient to use. Plus, you’ll receive a free lock with every unit at no extra charge! Our units are affordable and cater to various storage needs. The check in process is simple and you’ll enjoy a 24/7 hour access to the premises, giving you the comfort of knowing your stuff is always within reach.

Final Thoughts

Gate access is a critical aspect of self-storage security, and choosing the right company is essential for protecting your peace.

Security shouldn’t be something you worry about—it’s the facility’s job to take care of that. That said, the more you know about what makes a self-storage facility secure, the better equipped you’ll be to make an informed decision. Hopefully, this article helped shed some light on this topic for you. And now, you’re ready to choose the most reliable storage company. At My Storage Box, we’re committed to meeting your storage needs and making the process stress-free. Our units are highly secure, fully fenced, and gated with keypad access, allowing you to come and go as you please while ensuring your items are in safe hands. If you have any questions or need more information about our offering, feel free to call us at (580) 300-3006—we’re here to help!

Security for Storage Units: What to Look For in a Self-Storage Facility

Posted on November 21, 2024 by John McCoy

5 Self-Storage Unit Facility Security Features to Look For

Is there really such a thing as enough storage space at home? No matter how organized you are, it always seems like there’s a need for more room. That’s where self-storage units come to the rescue. They’re practical, easy to use, and—most importantly—spacious! But how secure are they?

If this safety concern keeps you from trying out a self storage facility and you’re still cluttering your attic, we’re here to change that.

In this article, we’ll be talking about security for storage units and help you pick the most safest option for your peace of mind. Let’s dive in!

What You Should Know About Storage Unit Security

Self-storage facilities offer an effective solution for the clutter problem many people have today. They offer individuals and businesses a convenient place to store excess belongings or items they no longer have room for.

However, it’s only natural you want all the details before committing to a storage company. So, here’s a rundown of everything you need to know before you make the final decision.

Are Storage Units Safe?

As a storage unit provider, one of the most common questions we get asked here at My Storage Box is around safety. The short answer is yes—storage units are generally safe and you can feel confident when storing your belongings. In fact, our storage unit made using shipping containers are far more secure than the standard light-guage sheet metal units on the market.

Thanks to the latest technology advancements, modern storage facilities now offer a range of high-quality security measures designed to prevent breaches. They go above and beyond to fortify their properties, from investing in the most advanced security features to hiring on-site staff and guards to complement the electronic security systems.

All in all, security shouldn’t be a major security for you when renting out a storage unit. However, the saying “better safe than sorry” still applies. We understand your desire to ensure everything is as safe as possible without unnecessary stress.

What Are Potential Security Threats in Storage Units?

All highest security technology aside, it’s important to acknowledge that no system is completely unbreakable, and storage units are no exception. Understanding the key risks can help you make informed decisions about protecting your belongings.

One of the biggest concerns when considering storage units is theft and burglaries. Unfortunately, even the most secure places can be targeted by determined criminals. That’s an unfortunate reality in today’s world.

Beyond that, fire hazards and environmental risks also pose a threat. While you may focus on protecting your stuff from burglars, extreme temperatures, fires, or floods can also cause significant danger (read our article about how to prevent mold in your storage unit for more information).

Let’s not forget about possible pest infestation, another potential threat. Just like in your home, storage units can also attract unwanted guests, such as rodents and insects, especially if there’s humidity or food remains left behind.

The Importance of Security for Storage Units

Given the fact that the primary value of self-storage companies is providing space for people’s belongings, security is naturally the top priority. They typically have self-storage security systems in place to keep their customers’ stuff safe and sound.

There are several key reasons why self-storage facilities go the extra mile to make their units theft-proof and safe—it all boils down to the customer’s main concern, and that is the safety of their possessions. Here are a few points about storage facility security that you should consider:

Reason 1: Self-storage facilities are entrusted with safeguarding valuable and often irreplaceable possessions. So, implementing a robust security system is essential to protect these belongings from theft, damage, or unauthorized access.
Reason 2: Providing a secure storage environment can instill confidence in customers and give them peace of mind. That’s what ultimately every storage facility is striving for.
Reason 3: A storage facility’s reputation is vital for attracting and retaining customers. A facility known for its strong security measures and safe storage environment will gain a positive reputation, attracting more customers via its self-storage marketing activities and enhancing its market position. Implementing comprehensive security measures helps to minimize the facility owner’s liability.

5 Features to Look for in a Self-Storage Facility

Yes, most facilities care very much about their customers, investing a lot of time and money in security. But how do you as a user know which ones are the safest and best choice for you?

Well, you’re already off to a great start—research is key when selecting any service. We’re here to help you understand self-storage security a little better. So here are five essential storage security solutions that you should look for.

Access Control Systems for Secure Storage

Most modern storage facilities offer some kind of an advanced access control system. These systems employ methods such as keypads, access credentials, or card keys that control storage access or in other words they control who gets in and gets out of the storage facility property. It’s one of the best ways to prevent unauthorized access and keep the environment secure.

Perimeter Security and Surveillance Solutions

One of the good signs a storage facility is secure is if they have a secure perimeter. Look for facilities with well-maintained high fencing designed to deter potential intruders and act as an early warning system in the event of a security breach. Gated access with unique codes or keycards ensures that only authorized people can enter the facilities, adding an extra layer of protection to your storage unit.

Additionally, look for facilities that have installed security cameras that can provide extra protection by recording 24/7 footage with audio evidence in case of an incident. The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) can improve this system by analyzing video footage in real-time, making it easier to identify and respond to security incidents.

All this together is almost a perfect combination that will prevent security breaches and make you feel better about your stored items.

Motion Sensors and Lighting for Enhanced Visibility

Well-lit properties tend to deter thieves and create a secure environment so they are essential security measures when it comes to self storages. Motion sensors are also great at detecting the presence of motion and can trigger actions such as turning on lights or alerting security personnel.

Fire Safety and Environmental Controls

While physical security is crucial, and you should absolutely prioritize all the security measures from above, let’s not forget about fire safety and environmental hazards. That’s why it’s important to ensure that the facility you’re considering has fire distinguishers, smoke detectors, and climate control systems to protect your items from damage and enhance security overall.

What You Can Do for Added Storage Security

The best thing you can do for the security of your items is, of course, to pick a reliable and safe facility. But why stop there?

There are some additional steps you can also take to protect yourself. Here’s what we suggest.

Use high-quality locks: High-security locks such as discs and padlocks are designed to be harder to cut or break, so they are a great way to ensure ultimate protection for your belongings.
Take inventory of your items: Keep a detailed list of your stored items. Consider documenting everything with photos and descriptions because it can be incredibly useful in case of damage or theft.
Consider insurance: If you’re planning on storing valuable items, then insurance might be a smart option. Either check with your storage facility if they offer insurance or with your homeowners or renters insurance to see if the stored items are covered.
Regularly visit your unit: If possible, try to regularly visit your storage unit facility to check the condition of your items. This is the best way to make sure the company is taking care of your stuff properly.

These steps may seem like an additional hassle for you now, but trust us, they’ll be well worth the effort down the line when you can be completely confident that your items are safe and secure.

Pick a Trusted Self Storage Facility for Maximum Security

With this comprehensive guide, you can now know what to look for in a self-storage facility and ensure you pick the safest option for you. As you can see, there are so many different solutions for potential security problems, from CCTV and access control systems to motion sensors, safe locks, and storage unit security systems.

Security is non-negotiable when it comes to your precious belongings. And you should choose a facility that prioritizes this aspect. While finding a reliable partner may take some time, once you’ve discovered a trustworthy storage unit, you’ll feel an incredible sense of relief.

At My Storage Box, we’re dedicated to meeting your storage needs and alleviating the stress that often comes with it. Our units are highly secure, fully fenced, and gated with keypad access, allowing you to come and go with ease while ensuring your items are in safe hands. If you have any questions or need more information, feel free to call us at (580) 300-3006—we’re here to help!

Is Your Storage Unit Covered? Understanding Homeowners Insurance for Stored Belongings

Posted on November 12, 2024 by John McCoy

Does Homeowners Insurance Cover the Contents of a Storage Unit?

You’ve got a little extra stuff in your house or garage and you’d really like to clear up some space for other things. Great! That’s what My Storage Box is here for: we offer some of the most secure personal property storage on the market. Our storage facility was designed from the ground up to be safe, secure, and easy to access.

But sometimes, stuff happens. And that is exactly why storage unit property insurance exists. Self storage facilities are not liable for insuring your goods, so you need to conduct due diligence and select the best insurance for your needs. You’d hate to be wrong that one time and not have coverage when you need it.

Insurance Coverage for Storage Unit Contents

Alright, so there is some confusion about who is responsible for the belongings in self-storage, so let’s break it down.

In storing storage units the insurance cover of possessions can typically be provided through an “on-site personal property protection plan”. Typical covered risk includes fire, blazes, thefts or vandalism, said the Insurance Information Institute (III). Check out your policy and see the risk categories that are covered.

Insured property coverage limits how much money a policyholder may pay to repair the damage caused by their property. The maximum personal property insurance limits are up to 50%, says NAIC.

Do storage locations require insurance?

Most storage facilities require that your items be insured. The choice between companies is different, but it generally boils back to these choices: storage unit insurance or your current insurance.

You’ll have to conduct due diligence to figure out which one is the best option for you. If you are a homeowner, you need to ask your agent specifically what is covered in terms of off-site protection. Many policies offer up to ten percent coverage of the total policy for off-site materials.

Also, you’ll have to check whether or not your storage location requires insurance. There is legal liability on both sides of this relationship because physical damage does occasionally happen to personal property in self-storage facilities.

Things to Consider Before Getting Insurance for a Storage Facility

The first thing you need to check on is the amount of coverage you already have. That ten percent of the total value that might be included in your current coverage might not be nearly enough for what you have stored. It’s probably just fine for mattresses and dressers with boxes of clothes thrown in, but what if you have a collection of valuable and rare items?

Say you store collectible firearms, where a single firearm can easily be in the high hundreds but more likely thousands to even tens of thousands per gun. Motorcycles are another item, and you need to check into them and see if your motorcycle coverage covers a motorcycle in storage somewhere besides your house.

Guitars and other musical instruments are another good example of items that can quickly outpace the coverage in most insurance policies. This isn’t saying that they aren’t; if you have added them specifically, you might be good. But again, check with your agent.

Insurance Specific to Items in Storage

Since people keep all kinds of things in storage, you need to check into what coverages you already have in place for them.

For instance, if you are keeping household goods in there, but also have a motorcycle to keep in storage, see if your self storage insurance covers both or if the motorcycle coverage extends to bikes in storage, and your homeowner or renter insurance covers the rest.

In other words, check to see if your combined insurance coverages will cover all of the items in storage. Again, talk to your insurance provider to get the whole rundown.

Insurance coverage for storage unit contents

We want to make this very clear: the storage facility and storage facilities do not hold the legal liability for the contents of a tenant’s storage unit. Storage facilities carry their own insurance as a liability from tenants.

It is always up to you to read the self storage facility rules and coverages so you are fully aware of who is responsible for what. This is one instance where claiming ignorance is not a good strategy; legal liability will be placed somewhere and it will be on you for the personal property in your self storage.

Final Thoughts

Your personal property is important to you, so choosing self storage facilities is an important decision. Stored goods are generally very safe in self storage but there is always liability in storing anything. There is the chance of water damage, theft, or other catastrophic event that can occur. It isn’t likely, but it does happen.

It is the responsibility of the tenant to secure insurance for their belongings, while it is the responsibility of the business to insure the building and premises. So make sure your coverage is where it needs to be before putting your possessions in self storage, just in case.

What to Expect from a 8×20 Self Storage Unit: Space and Cost Explained

Posted on November 12, 2024 by John McCoy

How Much Can an 8×20 Storage Unit Hold? Space, Costs & More

One of the most popular sizes of storage units are our 8’x20’ shipping containers. These offer approximately 160 square feet of storage space for all kinds of household goods. Our 8×20 storage units are the perfect size to house the belongings for up to a two to three bedroom house.

It’s the perfect size for a fridge, washer and dryer, three mattress sets, a dining room set, bookcases, couches, and boxes. We’re going to virtually walk through an 8×20 storage unit and talk about the pros and cons, and what size you would want if you need more space.

Understanding 8×20 Storage Units

A good way to think of an 8×20 storage unit is as a rough equivalent to a one-car garage. If you’ve ever had a one-car garage, you’ll be familiar with the It’s ideal for storing furniture, appliances, and other large items, with 8ft. of vertical space for maximum storage capacity.

A row of our clean, secure, and safe storage units in beautiful Ponca City, Oklahoma!

Now, it is important to understand a few things about our storage units. We decided to do things a little bit differently. Instead of hiring out construction and getting typical thin-walled steel storage buildings, we wanted something…stronger.

So, we went with shipping containers instead. There is nothing thin-walled about shipping containers. They are built to withstand the worst conditions on the planet and come back for a lot more. The standard sizes for shipping containers are:

8×10
8×20
8×40

The 8×20 is a great middle ground size that will accommodate most households’ needs.

Choosing the Right Storage Unit

Before you sign any paperwork, you need to know what exactly you need. There’s nothing wrong with getting the wrong size, but it is frustrating to either overbuy or underbuy anything.

Space and Capacity

Here’s a handy guide on what sizes are best suited for the quantity of materials being stored in it.

8×10 Storage Unit

Seasonal and Household Storage
Our introductory storage unit is our 8’x10’ which has approximately 80 square feet of secure storage. This unit is the size of a large walk in closet. It’s perfect for a mattress and box spring and small furniture items such as nightstands, chairs, and drawers. For small businesses it’s perfect to store records, extra supplies and small office furniture.

8×20 Storage Unit

Household and Small Business Storage
Our 8’x20′ storage unit is approximately 160 square feet of secure storage space. This space can roughly hold a two-to-three-bedroom house. For example: a fridge, washer and dryer, three mattress sets, a dining room set, bookcases, couches, and boxes.

8×40 Storage Unit

Ideal Large Family or Small Businesses
Moving and need a quick storage space, look no further than our 8’x40′ storage unit. With 320 square feet of storage this is the perfect solution for homeowners looking to store their belongings or for small business owners. This unit can fit the contents of a three-to-four-bedroom house. For example: a couple of couches, an oversized armchair, dining room set, fridge, washer and dryer, entertainment nook, bookcases, and multiple mattress sets.

Cost and Pricing

The cost of a 8×20 storage unit varies depending on the location, amenities, and features. You need to look around your area and see what the prices are in the area, because they can vary.

A row of shipping containers used for self-storage.

Finding a Storage Unit Near You

These are the tips you should follow to find the right storage unit near you.

Use online directories or search engines to find self storage facilities in your area.
Check the facility’s website for information on available units, pricing, and amenities.
Contact the facility directly to ask about their process for renting a unit and to inquire about any forbidden code or ID requirements.
Visit the facility in person to see the units and meet with the staff.

These tips are pretty universal (and generic). Now, here is the deal: My Storage Box is a completely unique way of doing storage. Instead of constructing out of thin steel sheet metal, we went with the beefiest option we could think of: steel shipping containers. We buy brand new units that have never been used in the three standard sizes (8×10, 8×20, & 8×40) and place them on a paved lot so you have easy access to them at all hours of the day.

We have state-of-the-art gate access and security so you know you are secure when you put your belongings in there. And of course, you should add your own padlock for that final layer of security.

Final Thoughts

My Storage Box doesn’t want to be like the rest; our goal is to provide you with the very best storage option in the business. We use brand new shipping containers for storage because they are strong, water tight, and about the most durable storage option you can think of.

If you are ready to get your household goods stored in an 8×20 storage unit in Ponca City, you can do it all here.