STORAGE BASICS OVERVIEW
Finding a storage unit can be an overwhelming task, especially if you aren't familiar with all of the options and features available. It's best to assess all of your storage needs before you even search for a local storage facility.
Consider how long you might need the storage unit. Many facilities offer discounts for long-term storage, but some may also have specials for temporary rentals.
Estimate how much space you will require. Save money by only renting the space you need. Feel free to use the self storage calculator to help you. Many facilities will store larger items including cars, camper and other motorized vehicles.
All storage facilities should have secure units, but if you require additional security for your possessions ask the facility if they have any of the following: fencing, surveillance cameras, motion lights, alarms, guards or a police presence.
You may also want to consider mobile storage for your items. If you decide to use mobile storage, a unit will be brought to you and removed after you have packed it. The unit will be stored at the facility or can be shipped to another location. The cost and features of mobile storage are comparable to self-storage but if you require regular access to your belongings, it may not be the best option for your needs.
Check out more detailed storage tips on the left hand side of this page. There's a storage solution for every situation.
WHY USE SELF STORAGE?
Reduce Clutter
Renting a self storage unit can be a great way to reduce clutter and free up needed space at the home or office. A storage unit is a smart place to keep a few boxes, old appliances, memorabilia, heirlooms and old toys.
Security
Often self storage units offer more security than homes. Self storage facilities provide security features not normally found on homes. In addition to a lock, facilities are often protected by a security fence, surveillance cameras, a gated entry, limited entry after hours, exterior lighting and possibly security guards or onsite management. You may choose to purchase an in-home security system for your home. While this may protect the items stored in your home, will it protect items left in your yard? What about that backyard storage shed? Self storage units give you the benefits of both extra storage space and added security.
Safety
Some items pose potential hazards at home and need to be placed in a secure area to ensure the safety of your family. You may be handy around the house and enjoy renovation projects, but between jobs a self storage unit can keep those power tools, ladders, saws and drills away from curious children and, thereby, reduce the risk of possible accidents around the house.
Space
Homes often do not have the storage space to hold large items. For instance, if you have ski boats, canoes or vintage cars, you may not have room for them in your garage or driveway. A self storage unit could give you a place to store such items that provides protection from the weather and some added security. If your garage has slowly filled with things like your exercise equipment and camping supplies and you want to reclaim it for your car, a self storage unit may be a perfect solution.
Insurance
When renting a unit you may be required or at least offered insurance. Insurance will replace your valuables if they are stolen or damaged while in storage. Self storage insurance may be cheaper than homeowner’s or renter’s insurance.
CHOOSING A STORAGE FACILITY OR STORAGE UNIT
If moving, do you want to pack and store items yourself or hire someone to do it for you?
If you value ease and saving time over saving money, you may want to hire professional movers who will come and pack up your belongings, move your items to their company-run storage site and then pack them up again and move them to your new destination. Make sure that you do your homework before hiring a mover. You’ll want to know that the company you hire is a reputable one before you entrust them with your valuables. Another thing to consider is that if you pack and store the items yourself you will have to pay for insurance, which can be costly. When hiring someone to do the work for you, insurance is often included in the cost of their services.
Do you need more time to pack, or want closer proximity to stored items?
You also may opt to rent a mobile storage unit. The mobile storage company will bring the storage unit to your house where you can pack it at your own pace. Then, they will move it to your new destination where you can unpack at your own pace. Some companies also offer to help with the packing for an added fee.
Are the items you wish to store sensitive to cold, heat, moisture or dust?
If you are storing valuable items such as documents, furs, electronics, computer equipment, stereos or television sets you may want to opt for a climate-controlled unit. Many storage facilities also offer dust-free storage for your sensitive electronics.
Will want to switch out the storage contents seasonally?
Often you will want to store your summer wardrobe or seasonal household items such as swimming pool equipment or patio furniture during the winter months. During the summer you may want to store your family’s skis, snowmobile, snow blower and shovels. Space may vary for these items and perhaps even the need for climate or dust control. Make sure that you consider all your possible needs before renting your unit.
Do you need 24 hour tenant access?
Be aware that not all facilities will allow you access to the unit during any given time of the day or night. Rules vary from one facility to the next. While some units are accessible 24 hours a day, other facilities have limited hours of operation that limit access to your belongings. Check the rules before signing a contract if round-the-clock access is important to you.
Do you need to store large items such as cars, campers or other motorized vehicles?
Self storage can be a great option for storing vehicles. If needed, you can rent a climate-controlled unit to help preserve these items. You will want to be sure that you rent from a company with an established reputation. Safety is another factor to consider. You will rest easier knowing that your valuables are properly secured.
Is the storage facility you chose secure?
Compare the safety and security features of facilities before renting. Ask if there are security cameras on the premises. Is the facility equipped with motion lights or otherwise well lit? Some storage facilities offer security alarms and security fences. Still other locations have an onsite manager living on the premises who will keep an eye on whose coming and going. They will alert the police of any suspicious activity.
STORAGE INSURANCE
Whether you need to pack a few items to put in the attic, send some boxes to a self storage unit to clear the house of clutter or pack everything you own in order to move, you want to do it right. This means packing carefully and thinking ahead. Take a few precautions to help prevent damage and make it easier to find things later. When summer rolls around, you want to be able to find the other half of your wardrobe without having to open and move stacks of boxes that weren’t clearly labeled.
Guidelines to keep in mind as you pack:
STORAGE INSURANCE
It is often assumed that self storage facilities will automatically provide insurance for the items being placed into storage. This is not generally the case. Few self storage facilities will offer full or comprehensive item insurance within their standard storage rental fees. Some may offer basic coverage as part of the package based on the size of storage unit rented, but this may not be enough for your needs.
Although some self storage facilities won’t insist that you have insurance coverage, others will and it makes sense to put adequate coverage in place. Don’t be lulled into a false sense of well-being just because the facility you’ve chosen has implemented good security measures or has a smoking ban on site for example. Your items are technically out of your hands in self storage and, although the facility may be doing everything it can to avoid theft, they can do little against accidents and damage caused by fires, floods, storms and other natural disasters.
It is recommended that you check your insurance options carefully before signing your storage rental agreement and placing your items into self storage. In fact, your first step should be to contact your homeowner/renter insurance agent to see if the items placed in the self storage facility will be covered by your current policy. It may be that you are fully covered for items stored away from home or you may be able to pay an additional premium to get such coverage. This option could be cheaper than taking out a separate insurance policy. If you do provide your own insurance coverage, be aware that the self storage facility you choose may ask to see proof of your policy before renting you space.
Should you purchase insurance? Ask yourself these questions:
Phone : (406) 259-4778
Address: 500 Hilltop Road, Billings, MT 59105
Email: acestoragecenter@gmail.com
Business Hours
★★★★★
March 1, 2017
I thought every storage facility was the same until I saw how awesome this one is. CLEAN and secure. Nice people who actually care about service.
★★★★★
Great owner-manager; safe, secure, easy
EJS
December 18, 2016
Ace Storage is an A+ for any storage needs. Adam the owner manger is great at accommodating special requests and is beyond trustworthy! I would recommend Ace Storage every day of the week and twice on Sundays.
★★★★★
Not all storage is created equal - A.C.E. is 1st rate in everyway!
Scott J.
December 15, 2016
You wouldn't think that a Storage company could separate itself from completion but A.C.E has others beat. Locally owned and operated, management is extremely accommodating and helpful, clean and professional facility.
★★★★★
June 10, 2015
I got a good deal on a parking spot for my extra car. I rarely need to get it out but it always feels safe and secure on the property when I do
★★★★★
Ace Storage Center is the greatest storage center to store your belongings. They are very trustworthy, very secure, and very friendly. They accommodate the unit size to what you are looking for. The prices are affordable for anyone. The units are spacious and clean. I trust Ace Storage Center.
Hunter P.
★★★★★
Had to get a storage unit for a few months, Adam was great to work with, good prices, clean units and facility. If i ever need another storage unit this is where I'm going and I'd definitely recommend it to anyone looking
Fred D.
★★★★★
Nice clean place and good prices for storage in the heights. They seem to take security very seriously which I do appreciate
Derek B.
★★★★★
I needed a storage unit to store a car for the winter. Adam was very helpful in choosing the correct size unit, helping me by backing the car into the unit (it was a tight fit to me) and then driving me back home. He was accommodating with my schedule and his Mom, Lucy, even helped with weekend contract signing back up. The area is clean, well lit and in the Heights which is convenient for me. I did some price checking and his rates are very fair. Nice family....great service!
Celeste D.
★★★★★
The best place to rent a storage unit. Adam is a class act. Goes above and beyond to give his customers satisfaction. Prices are great. Can’t recommend enough!
Brian B.
★★★★★
Great place! Good prices! Owner is very friendly and professional! Highly recommend!
Carrie M.
★★★★★
Always friendly!
Melissa F.
★★★★★
The only place I would ever rent a storage unit. Secure, convenient hours, and the owner will let you use his enclosed trailer. He even helped unload. Highly recommend!
Riley S.
★★★★★
The managers were friendly and totally willing to work with us as we only needed a unit for a little over a month. They didn't charge us for 2 months but only for the few extra days we needed the unit. I appreciate this place for their flexibility
Adam R.
★★★★★
I talked to a lot of storage units in Billings before I found Ace Storage. Their prices were great and they were very easy to deal with. I've been there well over a year now and I have had nothing but good experiences. They also keep their units very secure so that you never have to worry about your stuff being stolen.
N W
★★★★★
Very modern and clean!
Jimmy B.
★★★★★
Excellent service and great location. I would highly recommend.
Jay A.
★★★★★
March 1, 2017
I thought every storage facility was the same until I saw how awesome this one is. CLEAN and secure. Nice people who actually care about service.
★★★★★
Great owner-manager; safe, secure, easy
EJS
December 18, 2016
Ace Storage is an A+ for any storage needs. Adam the owner manger is great at accommodating special requests and is beyond trustworthy! I would recommend Ace Storage every day of the week and twice on Sundays.
★★★★★
Not all storage is created equal - A.C.E. is 1st rate in everyway!
Scott J.
December 15, 2016
You wouldn't think that a Storage company could separate itself from completion but A.C.E has others beat. Locally owned and operated, management is extremely accommodating and helpful, clean and professional facility.
★★★★★
June 10, 2015
I got a good deal on a parking spot for my extra car. I rarely need to get it out but it always feels safe and secure on the property when I do
★★★★★
Ace Storage Center is the greatest storage center to store your belongings. They are very trustworthy, very secure, and very friendly. They accommodate the unit size to what you are looking for. The prices are affordable for anyone. The units are spacious and clean. I trust Ace Storage Center.
Hunter P.
★★★★★
Had to get a storage unit for a few months, Adam was great to work with, good prices, clean units and facility. If i ever need another storage unit this is where I'm going and I'd definitely recommend it to anyone looking
Fred D.
★★★★★
Nice clean place and good prices for storage in the heights. They seem to take security very seriously which I do appreciate
Derek B.
★★★★★
I needed a storage unit to store a car for the winter. Adam was very helpful in choosing the correct size unit, helping me by backing the car into the unit (it was a tight fit to me) and then driving me back home. He was accommodating with my schedule and his Mom, Lucy, even helped with weekend contract signing back up. The area is clean, well lit and in the Heights which is convenient for me. I did some price checking and his rates are very fair. Nice family....great service!
Celeste D.
★★★★★
The best place to rent a storage unit. Adam is a class act. Goes above and beyond to give his customers satisfaction. Prices are great. Can’t recommend enough!
Brian B.
★★★★★
Great place! Good prices! Owner is very friendly and professional! Highly recommend!
Carrie M.
★★★★★
Always friendly!
Melissa F.
★★★★★
The only place I would ever rent a storage unit. Secure, convenient hours, and the owner will let you use his enclosed trailer. He even helped unload. Highly recommend!
Riley S.
★★★★★
The managers were friendly and totally willing to work with us as we only needed a unit for a little over a month. They didn't charge us for 2 months but only for the few extra days we needed the unit. I appreciate this place for their flexibility
Adam R.
★★★★★
I talked to a lot of storage units in Billings before I found Ace Storage. Their prices were great and they were very easy to deal with. I've been there well over a year now and I have had nothing but good experiences. They also keep their units very secure so that you never have to worry about your stuff being stolen.
N W
★★★★★
Very modern and clean!
Jimmy B.
★★★★★
Excellent service and great location. I would highly recommend.
Jay A.