Industry Savings May Lead to Consumer Savings

The 30th of September, 2010, was quite the day for California’s self storage market; quite the day, indeed.  Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger passed a few amendments that, at the end of the day, are more than likely going to save California’s self storage community around $10 million dollars.  Certified mail is no longer required for the issuance of lien notices; superior courts are no longer required to handle lien disputes between self storage owners and their tenants (i.e. now, small claims court will suffice).  To the industry outsider, these must seem like some pretty small changes.  To the self storage owner, though, these “small” amendments add up to more than $2000 per property per year.  That’s nothing to sneeze at!

Of course, self storage owners are not the only ones who are going to benefit from these savings—at least, I’d like to think that they’re not.  Indeed, if there is any justice in the world, then we are going to see some of these savings trickle down to the loyal customers who do pay their bills on time.

It seems likely that the savings are going to trickle down to consumers in the form of moving specials and new customer discounts—you know, the special deals that you’re offered when you’re “just shopping around for the best price”. 

Not familiar with these kinds of specials?  Not a problem; I’ve broken a few of the most common specials down just for you.  There’s nothing worse than shopping around when you’re don’t know what you’re looking for, right?

Reserve now and get your first month for free!  Typically speaking, this special is going to excuse your first month’s rental payment, but that does not mean that you are going to be able to walk into the front office with an empty wallet.  Contrary to popular belief, you’re still going to have a few bills to pay when you sign your rental agreement.  Typically speaking, you should bring enough money for a high security lock (usually about $15) and the rental fees (i.e. the administration fee and any pro-rate that you might have to pay).

Reserve now and get a moving truck for free!  There isn’t a catch to this one, exactly, but you’re going to have to exercise a bit of forethought if you want to get your truck on time.  While you’re not going to have to pay for the rental, you are going to have to call ahead of time and make sure that it’s going to be available when you need it.  Also, watch out for mileage limitations, here.  Sometimes, the self storage facility can bill you if you exceed a certain number of miles when you’re moving into your unit.

Reserve now and we’ll give you your first full month for free.  This special can sound a bit tricky at first, but it’s not actually very confusing.  Typically speaking, this special works in the following way: when you come into the office to sign your lease, you’re told to pay a pro-rate for however many days are remaining in the month.  When your next month rolls around, you won’t have to worry about making a rent payment.

Keep your eyes good and peeled, reader.  The following weeks are going to be full of exciting savings for self storage customers and facilities, alike.

Tweet This Post 

Disclamer: This entry is intended to promote our partner StorageMart and some or all participants received compensation.