Find the Best Storage Units in Bakersfield, CA

How to choose self-storage units in Bakersfield

When choosing a self-storage company, consider how much space you need and if you need easy access to the items. Think about whether you’ll transport the items to storage yourself or if you require a truck or movers.

One of your first decisions is whether you prefer a facility with exterior access or one with units inside a building.

• Exterior units provide drive-up access, which allows you to park your vehicle directly outside your unit. If you’re storing heavy or bulky items, drive-up access is easier for loading and unloading your unit.
• Indoor facilities are often in multistory buildings with elevator access to the upper floors. Multistory buildings usually provide an extra layer of security by having interior doors and coded access, but elevators can make loading more cumbersome.

You also need to decide whether you need a climate-controlled unit with heating and air conditioning. In a climate-controlled facility, both humidity and temperature are monitored and controlled, sometimes with separate thermostats in each unit. In Bakersfield, extremely hot temperatures can be a concern for items in storage.

Common items that can be damaged by extreme heat include:

• Paper, photos and books
• Electronics
• Wooden or leather furniture
• Wine
• Musical instruments
• Artwork

Many storage facilities have limited hours for accessing your unit. If you need 24-hour access, look for a facility that offers this service. Some companies add security by employing managers to be on site at all times. Other security features include surveillance cameras and locked doors/gates that require codes.

The cost of storage units in Bakersfield

Prices for storage units vary depending on many factors, including the size of the unit, location of the facility (whether its close to town or in a rural area) and proximity of the unit to the facility entrance (for convenience). Expect to pay more for amenities like climate and humidity control, electric outlets and added security.

Increased demand for storage units can also increase the price. If you are packing a storage container at your home and having it picked up, you may pay extra to have the container transported.

Average storage unit cost in Bakersfield

The facility may charge an administrative fee when you first rent your unit. Most self-storage facilities offer month-to-month contracts, but you may receive a discount by signing a long-term agreement if you know you’ll be using it for an extended period. Read the contract carefully for information about rent increases; some companies have an introductory rate that increases after a few months.

Look for facilities that offer discounts or other perks, including free locks, moving boxes or a dolly to help with loading. Some companies offer free or discounted truck rentals for moving. Bakersfield military families and service members should ask about military discounts.

Protecting your stored items in Bakersfield

Your renters or homeowners insurance may provide coverage for possessions stored off-site — check your policy or talk to your insurance provider to be sure. Even if it does, natural disasters like floods or earthquakes may not be covered by basic insurance. Bakersfield residents who store their items in areas near the Kern River should make sure to add flood insurance.

Some storage facilities offer protection policies for additional fees, but again, this might not cover floods or other natural disasters. Bakersfield customers should ask if the company has a policy on termites, especially when storing wood furniture.

California law regulates the self-storage industry and dictates what actions owners can take if you fail to pay your rent. Be aware of the laws before signing a contract with a self-storage facility and check your rental agreement for your facility’s specific policies.