You’ve been considering the purchase of an RV, but now, with gas prices so high, maybe you’re re-considering. While you want to evaluate any vehicle purchase, here are a few things you may not have thought about Recreational Vehicles.
First, there is an RV for any spending level. You can find tent trailers for a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on whether you want new or used, and the size and options included. And you can find mega-RVs that cost more than some houses. Find an RV that meets your requirements for comfort and roominess. Most models come in several trim levels, so if you’re looking for a new RV, you can weigh the benefits of the various options against the costs. But remember that there are many used RVs out there that are very well cared for, and you may be able to find one that’s just a few years old and save yourself some money.
But what kinds of RVs are there to choose from? In the broadest sense, there are tow-behinds and fifth-wheels, which have no motor as part of the RV, and motorhomes, which have the motor as an integral part.
Tow-behinds can include tent trailers, which are an excellent way to try out RVing. They’re very reasonably priced and lightweight. You can find a tent trailer light enough to tow behind almost any vehicle. Tent trailers set up (and down) in a matter of minutes, and the “tent” part of it is watertight these days, so there’s no more worrying about water coming through to drip on your forehead.
Tow-behinds can also include teardrop trailers (think “I love Lucy”), standard recreational trailers, and also the newer “toy hauler” trailers, with which you can bring along everything, including the kitchen sink. Teardrop trailers are not as lightweight as a tent trailer, but they are pretty light, mostly because they aren’t all that large. The interior is typically reserved for sleeping, with the kitchen facilities on a fold-down tail in the rear.
Standard trailers come in a huge variety of lengths, from twelve feet or so to well over thirty feet. You can find models with just the basics to ones with options you hadn’t even imagined—and, of course, prices to match. The “toy hauler” models are very similar, but many of the interior features like beds and sofas fold or otherwise stow away so that your ATVs or motorcycles can come along for the ride. The floors typically have recessed D-rings for strapping your toys down.
The final type of tow-behind is a fifth-wheel trailer. These hook into an adapter in the bed of your truck, rather than on a ball on the bumper. This can make the overall length a little shorter, although the front of the trailer, the part that rides over the truck bed, isn’t as tall as the rest of the trailer. One nice thing about fifth-wheels is that they turn and corner in a shorter radius than standard tow-behinds.
Then there are the motorized RVs, typically called motorhomes or motorcoaches. The nice thing about these is that, when you pull over to camp, there’s no getting out or setting up. You just unbuckle your seatbelt and you’re ready to go. However, with a tow-behind you’re not devoted to your engine—you can get a new car or truck and still keep your trailer. With a motorhome it’s all or nothing. Some people tow a small car behind the motorcoach so they can get to the grocery store without taking the RV.
Of course, since the engine is included, a motorcoach is typically more expensive than a trailer or fifth-wheel. But don’t forget to consider the cost of the tow vehicle into your calculations.
After deciding what type of RV you want and the price you’re willing to pay, it’s time to start looking! Don’t discount an RV that’s a few years old. Remember, few RVs are used on an ongoing basis. The vast majority get taken out only a few weeks or months of the year.
Many banks offer financing for RVs—check with yours first. Sometimes with an attached checking or savings account, they’ll lower the interest rate a bit. Belong to a credit union? Some of them offer RV financing as well, often at better rates than the banks or savings and loans. You may find a special financing deal on a model offered through the dealer.
With any type of financing through any source, be sure to read, read, read that contract. Question anything you don’t understand. Make sure the interest rate, term, payment amount, and any other important aspects of the loan are clearly outlined on the note you’ll sign. Get a copy of the contract right there, when you sign. You’ll protect yourself from later hocus-pocus by anyone else.
Call several places and get firm quotes on rate and terms. If you’d prefer to deal with Lender A, but Lender B is a quarter-percent lower with the same terms, call up Lender A and let them know. You’d be surprised how often Lender A will meet or beat Lender B’s offer in order to get your business.
An RV offers you flexibility in your travel plans, and the comfort of being able to stay in familiar surroundings. Your family can spend time together, and you’re not worried about creepy hotel rooms or third-world food. You’ll create memories that will last forever, and family ties that will bind.
So get out there, explore the world of RVing. You’ll be glad you did!
Find RV storage near you.
Sunday, April 27, 2008
Renting a Mobile Storage Unit
At one time, if you had too much stuff and not enough room to put it all, you had to find a local storage shed, sign a year-long contract for storage space, bribe a friend who owned a truck to help and load it all up and physically move it to the shed yourself. Not only could it be a real pain coordinating activities and moving it all, but there were very little customer options if you had a unique storage need. All of that has changed in the past ten years.
Mobile storage options have answered customers unmet needs. These mobile storage options are storage pods or units that can be as small as a refrigerator box or as big as a full-length trailer, but are delivered physically to a customer’s location. These units can include the following attributes:
Heavy Duty Steel Construction. Because these mobile storage units aren’t in an environmentally controlled area, they are usually created with heavy duty steel and reinforced doors, roofs and edges. They are made to withstand all kinds of weather and resist external damage.
Security. Security is of the utmost importance to anyone storing their goods. Many of these mobile storage units have more than just a lock and key system. Often times, there is a secure lockbox, a heavy-duty steel locking arm and even alarm systems and video options for the customer’s protection.
Multiple Choices. Mobile storage units do not have to be kept on the customer’s property indefinitely. Many companies have a central warehouse location and will transport your storage pod back to the warehouse for safekeeping. If a customer just wants to reduce the need to bribe a friend with pizza and beer for the use of their truck, these choice of off-property storage locations is a primary selling point.
Custom Design. Although many storage units are standardized sizes, such as 10, 20 or 40 foot storage pods, when a customer has a unique need, the mobile storage companies can create a unit that has been designed to alternate specifications. They can be built to fit large equipment, farm machinery and the like.
Convenient. There are very few time limits or restrictions placed upon the mobile units. When a customer wants to move some items to storage, the pod can remain at the customer’s location for as long as it takes to fill the unit. Customers don’t have to rush the moving process just to meet a company’s schedules. They can fill the container in a day or in a few weeks without any adverse charges.
Climate Controlled and Insulated. Just like a mobile classroom can have an air conditioner or heating unit, mobile units can be equipped with climate control features. The climate control in these types of mobile units is often not as high quality as one would get in a secure warehouse, but are good enough to meet a customers needs for insulation or air control.
If you are interested in mobile storage units and believe it is the answer to your need, simply start by defining your present need. Think of what you are going to store, how long you might need to store it, what type of security you need, where you want to keep the unit, and how often you want to access the contents. Then, do some searches in the yellow pages or online to find local companies and start contacting them to find the one that best meets your needs.
Storage options have come a long way in the past ten to twenty years. Customers now have more options relating to convenience, security and timeliness. When it comes to mobile units, the customer can get as many unique choices as they can pay for. And the cost is not always that high either. Competition among storage companies keeps the cost acceptable and the selection of feature higher.
Find a mobile storage facility near you.
Mobile storage options have answered customers unmet needs. These mobile storage options are storage pods or units that can be as small as a refrigerator box or as big as a full-length trailer, but are delivered physically to a customer’s location. These units can include the following attributes:
Heavy Duty Steel Construction. Because these mobile storage units aren’t in an environmentally controlled area, they are usually created with heavy duty steel and reinforced doors, roofs and edges. They are made to withstand all kinds of weather and resist external damage.
Security. Security is of the utmost importance to anyone storing their goods. Many of these mobile storage units have more than just a lock and key system. Often times, there is a secure lockbox, a heavy-duty steel locking arm and even alarm systems and video options for the customer’s protection.
Multiple Choices. Mobile storage units do not have to be kept on the customer’s property indefinitely. Many companies have a central warehouse location and will transport your storage pod back to the warehouse for safekeeping. If a customer just wants to reduce the need to bribe a friend with pizza and beer for the use of their truck, these choice of off-property storage locations is a primary selling point.
Custom Design. Although many storage units are standardized sizes, such as 10, 20 or 40 foot storage pods, when a customer has a unique need, the mobile storage companies can create a unit that has been designed to alternate specifications. They can be built to fit large equipment, farm machinery and the like.
Convenient. There are very few time limits or restrictions placed upon the mobile units. When a customer wants to move some items to storage, the pod can remain at the customer’s location for as long as it takes to fill the unit. Customers don’t have to rush the moving process just to meet a company’s schedules. They can fill the container in a day or in a few weeks without any adverse charges.
Climate Controlled and Insulated. Just like a mobile classroom can have an air conditioner or heating unit, mobile units can be equipped with climate control features. The climate control in these types of mobile units is often not as high quality as one would get in a secure warehouse, but are good enough to meet a customers needs for insulation or air control.
If you are interested in mobile storage units and believe it is the answer to your need, simply start by defining your present need. Think of what you are going to store, how long you might need to store it, what type of security you need, where you want to keep the unit, and how often you want to access the contents. Then, do some searches in the yellow pages or online to find local companies and start contacting them to find the one that best meets your needs.
Storage options have come a long way in the past ten to twenty years. Customers now have more options relating to convenience, security and timeliness. When it comes to mobile units, the customer can get as many unique choices as they can pay for. And the cost is not always that high either. Competition among storage companies keeps the cost acceptable and the selection of feature higher.
Find a mobile storage facility near you.
Choosing a Self Storage Facility
There are many reasons to use a self storage facility. You might be between homes and staying at a hotel or with friends in the meantime. You might need to move into a smaller place for a little while, and don’t want to get rid of your furniture and then have to buy all new things when you have more room again. Or you might just have too much stuff and too little storage space at home.
Whatever your reason, you will need to know how to choose a self storage facility that suits your needs. Here are a few things to consider.
1) How much space do you need?
Self storage facilities usually offer units in several different sizes. For instance, a small-size storage unit is typically about five feet by ten feet, which would hold the contents of a one bedroom apartment if packed tightly. Ten feet by ten feet is another common size for self storage units, and can hold the contents of a two-bedroom apartment or home. Garage-sized storage units are also common, and are used for larger homes and/or car storage.
Once you have figured out how much space you need, the first question you should ask each storage facility is what size units they have available. This way, you will be able to immediately eliminate any facilities that don’t have the size you need.
2) How long do you need the storage unit for?
The length of time for which you are intending on storing your stuff can make a big difference when choosing between storage units. For instance, if you are only going to store your stuff for a couple of months, you will probably want to pay closer attention to rates and contract terms. On the other hand, if you are planning on long-term self storage, then the amenities each facility offers may weigh a little heavier on your decision.
3) What features are most important to you?
When you start looking at storage facilities, it is important to know which features you are willing to give up, and which you just have to have. For instance, if you are on a tight budget, price will probably be one of your deciding factors. Someone who works odd hours might require a self storage unit that doesn’t lock down at 8 o’clock every night. Location is another thing many people aren’t willing to negotiate on, especially with current gas prices.
4) Is the monthly rate a move-in special, or an ongoing rate?
Many storage facilities offer move-in specials in order to entice potential customers. Their goal is to make you sign the papers without continuing to shop around. Be sure to keep this mind, and don’t let them trick you: Ask how long the move-in special will last, and how much the regular rate is. If you will need to use the storage unit for more than just a few months, you will probably want to compare regular rates as well as move-in specials.
5) How much is the deposit, and what are the terms?
Some self storage facilities require a deposit. When you are comparing prices between units, be sure to ask how much the deposit is, and what the terms are for getting it back after moving out.
6) What are the terms for moving out?
Even if you won’t be moving your stuff out of self storage for a while, you will want to know a facility’s terms before committing to anything. Most self storage facilities rent space month-by-month, which means that you can leave at any time. However, you will usually be required to notify the facility 30 days in advance.
7) What happens if you are late on a payment?
No one likes to think that they might not be able to pay their bills on time, but things do happen. Make sure you find out what the self storage facility’s late policy is. Usually you will be charged some fees according to how late you are, and if you wait too long to pay, your belongings will be sold or otherwise disposed of. Ideally, you will want a grace period of a couple of months before this happens – this way, if you fall behind you will have time to get caught up without losing everything.
8) What amenities does the self storage facility offer?
There are a variety of amenities offered by self storage facilities. Some are climate-controlled, meaning that they are kept at a certain temperature (and sometimes a certain humidity, too); this type of environment is perfect for valuable items or collectibles that can be damaged by extremes in temperature or abrupt changes in humidity. Many have fences, gates, and security systems to protect customers’ belongings. Extended hours, special padlocks, and on-site management are other amenities self storage facilities may offer.
9) Are you allowed to take the contract home with you?
Reading the contract for the first time during the sign-up process is dangerous for two reasons. One, the manager’s office is generally not a good environment for concentrating on difficult-to-understand legalese. Two, the manager is usually waiting for you to finish and sign, which puts a lot of pressure on you. Perhaps as a combination of these two factors, many people quickly skim the document, and sign without fully understanding what they are agreeing to.
If you can take the contract home with you, you will be able to take your time reading it. Another advantage is the ability to compare contracts between different self storage facilities. The contracts will be similar in many places, but this way you can also make sure you don’t agree to unfair terms that you could avoid by taking your business elsewhere.
Final Tips for Choosing a Self storage Facility
The best way to choose a self storage facility is to consider all your options carefully, and then choose the one that works best for you. This is easier said than done, however. When you are touring a storage facility, the manager’s sales pitch usually sounds very convincing, and the move-in special very enticing – which is exactly the point.
To make sure you don’t get sidetracked by convincing sales tactics, write out a list of the things you want to ask – then keep the list in your hand the entire time, to make sure you remember to check it. Get information first and make your decision later, when you can determine which self storage facility best satisfies your needs.
Denver Self Storage | Los Angeles self storage | Seattle self storage
Dallas self storage | Houston self storage | Atlanta self storage | Orlando self storage
Find a self storage facility near you.
Whatever your reason, you will need to know how to choose a self storage facility that suits your needs. Here are a few things to consider.
1) How much space do you need?
Self storage facilities usually offer units in several different sizes. For instance, a small-size storage unit is typically about five feet by ten feet, which would hold the contents of a one bedroom apartment if packed tightly. Ten feet by ten feet is another common size for self storage units, and can hold the contents of a two-bedroom apartment or home. Garage-sized storage units are also common, and are used for larger homes and/or car storage.
Once you have figured out how much space you need, the first question you should ask each storage facility is what size units they have available. This way, you will be able to immediately eliminate any facilities that don’t have the size you need.
2) How long do you need the storage unit for?
The length of time for which you are intending on storing your stuff can make a big difference when choosing between storage units. For instance, if you are only going to store your stuff for a couple of months, you will probably want to pay closer attention to rates and contract terms. On the other hand, if you are planning on long-term self storage, then the amenities each facility offers may weigh a little heavier on your decision.
3) What features are most important to you?
When you start looking at storage facilities, it is important to know which features you are willing to give up, and which you just have to have. For instance, if you are on a tight budget, price will probably be one of your deciding factors. Someone who works odd hours might require a self storage unit that doesn’t lock down at 8 o’clock every night. Location is another thing many people aren’t willing to negotiate on, especially with current gas prices.
4) Is the monthly rate a move-in special, or an ongoing rate?
Many storage facilities offer move-in specials in order to entice potential customers. Their goal is to make you sign the papers without continuing to shop around. Be sure to keep this mind, and don’t let them trick you: Ask how long the move-in special will last, and how much the regular rate is. If you will need to use the storage unit for more than just a few months, you will probably want to compare regular rates as well as move-in specials.
5) How much is the deposit, and what are the terms?
Some self storage facilities require a deposit. When you are comparing prices between units, be sure to ask how much the deposit is, and what the terms are for getting it back after moving out.
6) What are the terms for moving out?
Even if you won’t be moving your stuff out of self storage for a while, you will want to know a facility’s terms before committing to anything. Most self storage facilities rent space month-by-month, which means that you can leave at any time. However, you will usually be required to notify the facility 30 days in advance.
7) What happens if you are late on a payment?
No one likes to think that they might not be able to pay their bills on time, but things do happen. Make sure you find out what the self storage facility’s late policy is. Usually you will be charged some fees according to how late you are, and if you wait too long to pay, your belongings will be sold or otherwise disposed of. Ideally, you will want a grace period of a couple of months before this happens – this way, if you fall behind you will have time to get caught up without losing everything.
8) What amenities does the self storage facility offer?
There are a variety of amenities offered by self storage facilities. Some are climate-controlled, meaning that they are kept at a certain temperature (and sometimes a certain humidity, too); this type of environment is perfect for valuable items or collectibles that can be damaged by extremes in temperature or abrupt changes in humidity. Many have fences, gates, and security systems to protect customers’ belongings. Extended hours, special padlocks, and on-site management are other amenities self storage facilities may offer.
9) Are you allowed to take the contract home with you?
Reading the contract for the first time during the sign-up process is dangerous for two reasons. One, the manager’s office is generally not a good environment for concentrating on difficult-to-understand legalese. Two, the manager is usually waiting for you to finish and sign, which puts a lot of pressure on you. Perhaps as a combination of these two factors, many people quickly skim the document, and sign without fully understanding what they are agreeing to.
If you can take the contract home with you, you will be able to take your time reading it. Another advantage is the ability to compare contracts between different self storage facilities. The contracts will be similar in many places, but this way you can also make sure you don’t agree to unfair terms that you could avoid by taking your business elsewhere.
Final Tips for Choosing a Self storage Facility
The best way to choose a self storage facility is to consider all your options carefully, and then choose the one that works best for you. This is easier said than done, however. When you are touring a storage facility, the manager’s sales pitch usually sounds very convincing, and the move-in special very enticing – which is exactly the point.
To make sure you don’t get sidetracked by convincing sales tactics, write out a list of the things you want to ask – then keep the list in your hand the entire time, to make sure you remember to check it. Get information first and make your decision later, when you can determine which self storage facility best satisfies your needs.
Denver Self Storage | Los Angeles self storage | Seattle self storage
Dallas self storage | Houston self storage | Atlanta self storage | Orlando self storage
Find a self storage facility near you.
Choosing a Moving Company
Moving can be very tedious, especially if you own a lot of stuff. Packing up all of your things, renting a truck, loading the truck, driving to the new place, and unloading everything... This is all very time-consuming. As a result, many people choose to hire a moving company to do all or part of it.
Unfortunately, although hiring a moving company can save you a lot of time and stress, hiring the wrong moving company can add to it. To protect yourself and your belongings, you will need to know how to choose a moving company.
Here are a few things to consider when looking for a good moving company.
1) How much of the move do you want the moving company to handle?
The saying is that you can hire someone to do almost anything for you – for a price. This is certainly true in this case. Many people choose to box up all their belongings themselves, and hire movers to load/unload the truck and transport everything. Some people, particularly if they are moving cross-country, might rent a truck and hire movers to box everything up and pack the truck, then do the driving themselves. Others hire movers to do absolutely everything, from packing the boxes to unloading it all into the proper rooms in the new house.
2) How much are you budgeting for the move?
Of course, everything that you have the moving company do will add to your bill. If you are on a tight budget, you may need to balance quality and convenience against cost. This means that you might have to do some of the work yourself, and hire movers who will just do the most difficult parts – usually loading and driving the truck. Compare prices between moving companies, and decide which will best suit your needs.
3) How far away are you moving?
Long-distance moves affect two things when choosing a moving company: the cost of the move, and the moving companies you have to choose from. Some local companies may not be able to move you across state lines. Also, for long-distance moves you will want to hire a moving company enough in advance to ensure that they have availability.
4) Does the moving company insure your belongings against damage or loss?
You have a lot of capital invested in your belongings. Think how much money it would take to replace some or all of it if something were to happen during the move. Would you even be able to?
Many moving companies will only reimburse a fraction of the value of your belongings if something happens to them. Ask a moving company how much they pay for lost or damaged belongings, and be sure to get a copy of this policy in writing. If the moving company’s policy doesn’t provide enough coverage, you may want to look into additional insurance.
5) What kind of reputation does the moving company have?
We’ve all heard the horror stories of things turning up missing or broken after the movers have unpacked the truck and left. Just as you want your belongings protected from damage or loss, you also need to know whether a moving company has a reputation for breaking or stealing things.
One way to research a moving company’s reputation is to search for their name online. Look for both complaints and follow-ups, since how the company handled the complaint is at least as important as the complaint itself. You should also check to see if the company is a member of the Better Business Bureau. Although the BBB will attempt to mediate a conflict even if the moving company is not a member, there is less incentive for a non-member to work toward a resolution.
The length of time the company has been in business is also a good indicator of reputation. Companies with bad reputations generally don’t stay in business for very long, so a company that has been around for a long time would probably be a better choice than one that only started up recently.
6) Can the moving company give you references?
A good moving company should be able to provide you with references upon request. Do check these references, but also keep in mind that just like individual, the moving company is likely to offer references that they know will be positive.
Of course, by far the best reference you can get is a referral from a friend or acquaintance. You are probably better off using a moving company recommended by someone you know, rather than one you have never heard of before.
Final Tips for Choosing a Moving Company
When you hire movers, you are putting a large part of your life in someone else’s hands. Things like furniture, clothing, and kitchenware are expensive, but since we usually accumulate them over time, most people don’t realize how much money they have tied up in their household items until they have to replace them all at once.
Since there is so much depending on having good movers, knowing how to choose a moving company is important. Before you begin contact moving companies for quotes, be sure to make a list of the questions you need to ask. This will help you stay focused during the conversation.
Remember, your possessions are valuable, so be sure you find a moving company you can trust!
Get quotes from certified moving companies in your area.
Unfortunately, although hiring a moving company can save you a lot of time and stress, hiring the wrong moving company can add to it. To protect yourself and your belongings, you will need to know how to choose a moving company.
Here are a few things to consider when looking for a good moving company.
1) How much of the move do you want the moving company to handle?
The saying is that you can hire someone to do almost anything for you – for a price. This is certainly true in this case. Many people choose to box up all their belongings themselves, and hire movers to load/unload the truck and transport everything. Some people, particularly if they are moving cross-country, might rent a truck and hire movers to box everything up and pack the truck, then do the driving themselves. Others hire movers to do absolutely everything, from packing the boxes to unloading it all into the proper rooms in the new house.
2) How much are you budgeting for the move?
Of course, everything that you have the moving company do will add to your bill. If you are on a tight budget, you may need to balance quality and convenience against cost. This means that you might have to do some of the work yourself, and hire movers who will just do the most difficult parts – usually loading and driving the truck. Compare prices between moving companies, and decide which will best suit your needs.
3) How far away are you moving?
Long-distance moves affect two things when choosing a moving company: the cost of the move, and the moving companies you have to choose from. Some local companies may not be able to move you across state lines. Also, for long-distance moves you will want to hire a moving company enough in advance to ensure that they have availability.
4) Does the moving company insure your belongings against damage or loss?
You have a lot of capital invested in your belongings. Think how much money it would take to replace some or all of it if something were to happen during the move. Would you even be able to?
Many moving companies will only reimburse a fraction of the value of your belongings if something happens to them. Ask a moving company how much they pay for lost or damaged belongings, and be sure to get a copy of this policy in writing. If the moving company’s policy doesn’t provide enough coverage, you may want to look into additional insurance.
5) What kind of reputation does the moving company have?
We’ve all heard the horror stories of things turning up missing or broken after the movers have unpacked the truck and left. Just as you want your belongings protected from damage or loss, you also need to know whether a moving company has a reputation for breaking or stealing things.
One way to research a moving company’s reputation is to search for their name online. Look for both complaints and follow-ups, since how the company handled the complaint is at least as important as the complaint itself. You should also check to see if the company is a member of the Better Business Bureau. Although the BBB will attempt to mediate a conflict even if the moving company is not a member, there is less incentive for a non-member to work toward a resolution.
The length of time the company has been in business is also a good indicator of reputation. Companies with bad reputations generally don’t stay in business for very long, so a company that has been around for a long time would probably be a better choice than one that only started up recently.
6) Can the moving company give you references?
A good moving company should be able to provide you with references upon request. Do check these references, but also keep in mind that just like individual, the moving company is likely to offer references that they know will be positive.
Of course, by far the best reference you can get is a referral from a friend or acquaintance. You are probably better off using a moving company recommended by someone you know, rather than one you have never heard of before.
Final Tips for Choosing a Moving Company
When you hire movers, you are putting a large part of your life in someone else’s hands. Things like furniture, clothing, and kitchenware are expensive, but since we usually accumulate them over time, most people don’t realize how much money they have tied up in their household items until they have to replace them all at once.
Since there is so much depending on having good movers, knowing how to choose a moving company is important. Before you begin contact moving companies for quotes, be sure to make a list of the questions you need to ask. This will help you stay focused during the conversation.
Remember, your possessions are valuable, so be sure you find a moving company you can trust!
Get quotes from certified moving companies in your area.
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