Find the Best Storage Units in Lansing, MI

How to choose self-storage units in Lansing

When considering a self-storage facility, there are many features to review before making a choice or signing any contracts.

• Drive-up access vs. interior facilities: Drive-up access, typically found in units with exterior access, lets you park your vehicle directly outside your unit and makes unloading large, bulky items easier. Interior units often have climate control and may be more suitable for smaller items.
• Stairs vs. elevators: If you’re renting an indoor unit, check how easy it is to access that unit. If you plan on storing couches, mattresses or other large items, you’ll want a ground-floor unit or a facility with an elevator.
• Climate control: Items such as antique furniture, photographs, vinyl records and electronics can be damaged by extreme temperatures and humidity. Climate control protects your belongings from Lansing’s freezing winters.
• Limited vs. 24/7 access: Although it may not be necessary to access your unit at all times, 24/7 access is essential if you plan on loading or unloading items at night or early in the morning.
• Security features: Facilities that have on-site staff, video surveillance and perimeter fences with electronic gate access are more secure, which protects your belongings and keeps you safe when you’re on the premises.

The cost of storage units in Lansing

Prices can differ significantly among storage companies in Lansing. Larger units are more expensive, and location also affects costs — units in high demand within densely populated areas cost more than units at facilities in remote locations. Other amenities such as climate control and additional security also increase the cost.

Average storage unit costs in Lansing

Some facilities in Lansing offer discounts to groups such as association membership holders, military service members, seniors and students. You may also receive a discount for signing a long-term contract.

Pay attention to your contract. It dictates:

• How to maintain the unit and cleanliness expectations
• The intended use of the unit
• How to properly store certain items (vehicles, motorized equipment, hazardous materials)
• Payment amounts and frequency
• Potential fees or deposits required

In addition to any obligations outlined by a contract, it’s important to keep your mailing address and contact information current with your facility. Delinquent payments can result in late fees and liens against your property. Michigan law allows the facility to sell your belongings if you fail to respond to a notice of late payment from your facility.

Insuring your stored belongings in Lansing

You’ll want to be sure your items are protected once you store them. Your homeowners or renters insurance may cover stored items, so check your policy or ask your insurance representative. If your policy doesn’t cover possessions in a storage unit, you may be able to upgrade your coverage.

Additionally, a storage unit facility can offer to facilitate third-party insurance for stored belongings on behalf of a renter. This was made legal in Michigan recently to ensure that those without home insurance or renters insurance have options to protect their belongings.