Of all the things that become last minute decisions while moving, where you are going to store your items should not be one of them. So instead of being forced to make a hasty decision, give yourself enough time to thoroughly check out your storage options.

Your Options:
Moving companies offer various storage services, with the benefits including one company handling the entire move and storage, saving you on the effort, and maybe some money. The moving company will generally move the items into storage, and then deliver them to you when they're able to schedule it. 

You can also choose among self-storage units, where you do all the heavy-lifting. This will include loading up a and unloading your goods at the storage facility into a storage container.

Mobile storage is a third offering: a large, portable container is dropped off at your home or business, you load it, and the container is either stored on your property, or stored at a large facility with other storage containers.

Location:
It might seem obvious, but consider a facility close to home. With frequent visits, this will save money and time.
With all options, be sure to be aware of access times for your stuff. Some offer 24-hour access, others have more normal business hours, and some mobile storage centers require 24-hour notice to access your unit.

Size:
Your future needs for storage may not be the same as your current so make sure the facility has options that will meet your needs.

Pest Control:
What kind of pest control does the facility use or offer?  Also, look around the facility to make sure that pest control is kept up.  

Security:
The security is another important item to check out. Find out how the security hours operate.  Another thing to consider is the location that the facility is in.  Is it a good neighborhood and would you feel comfortable visiting the facilities after-dark?

Price:
Price depends on size, storage, and any special requests. During busier periods, special offers and discounts will be fewer and storage companies will try to offer incentives to persuade you to commit to a longer rental period. Many storage companies will offer the first month free. You just have to look around.

Though price is important, do not chose solely on price. The security and reputation of the storage company are also important points to consider.

Special Needs:
When considering a storage facility makes sure that it is one that will meet your needs. For example, you may be looking for storage facilities that provides climate control and/or other special storage accessories. Remember, humidity and extreme temperatures can wreck havoc with some of your goods. Stating your specific requirements to the sales representative will ensure the best option that they have available to store your items.

Do I Really Need This Junk?
When deciding whether to store your items, remember the 20%. Most households only use 20% of the items that they have on a regular basis. The rest is usually just junk. Keeping only what you really need will reduce storage costs and you won't have to move them again later.