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5 Things You Didn’t Know About Storage Unit Auctions

a wooden gavel resting on top of money

When most people think about storage unit auctions, they think about the popular television show Storage Wars. While this show is entertaining, it can also be misleading. Storage unit auctions are not like the scenes in the show. There is no excitement or fighting over items. The reality is that it is a lot like a garage sale.

There are many misconceptions about auctions at storage facilities. Below are some things you may not know:

What is a Storage Unit Auction

Storage unit auctions are a recent trend in the United States, and they're exactly what they sound like: an auction of storage units. The storage units are opened, and the bidders can look at everything that's inside before placing a bid. Individuals or businesses who have failed to pay their rent or abandoned their possessions will often have the contents sold at auction.

Most storage auctions are handled by a third-party company. This company does the auction, takes payment for the units, and handles all of the paperwork for you.

Why Are Belongings Left Abandoned?

There are a few possible reasons why items are often left abandoned. Some are as follows:

  • The tenant never bothered to move their belongings out, even after the rental agreement expired.
  • The tenant may have passed away, and their family never claimed the belongings.
  • The tenant may have simply abandoned the unit and moved on without their possessions.

Whatever the reason, it's not uncommon to find abandoned storage units littered with old furniture, boxes, and other random items.

What Can You Find in Storage Auctions

Storage auctions are a great place to find a variety of items at a low price. The most common type of item you will find at an auction in a storage facility is furniture, but you can also find appliances, tools, and other household items.

Note though that not everything you find here is valuable.

People often attend these kinds of auctions because they are looking for a good deal on items. However, it is important to remember that not everything in the unit being auctioned will be worth buying.

In fact, most of the time there will be very few valuable items in the unit. It is important to really take the time to look at the items before making a bid.

Moreover, it's also important to remember that you can't always trust what you see.

In fact, you must always remember the inherent risk of bidding at an auction. There are simply many things that you can be unaware of - from hidden damage to missing parts - that you cannot always trust what you see.

So before you go bidding on that locker full of "treasures," take a moment to consider the risks involved and whether or not it's really worth taking the chance.

Know Your Storage Auction Rules

There are no specific rules or guidelines in an auction, and things can quickly get out of control if you do not know what you are doing. Make sure you know what you are doing when you attend an auction. Always seek to clarify the rules of the event and if you have questions or uncertainties, never be afraid to seek help.

It is open to the public

Auctions are open to the public so that anyone can bid on the units. However, be aware that you may not get the best deal possible if you're not familiar with how the bidding process works.

The best way to maximize your chances of getting a good deal is to attend an auction or two and watch how the process works. This will give you a better understanding of when to bid and how much to bid. Keep in mind that most units are auctioned off in bulk, so don't expect to get a lot of high-end items for cheap prices.

But if you're looking for some good deals on basic household items, storage auctions are definitely worth checking out.

It often takes place on weekends

Weekends are when most people have free time to attend. The units are usually auctioned off in the order that they were rented, so the earliest units to be rented are usually auctioned first.

The auctions usually last for a few hours, and there is a lot of bidding for the best units. Sometimes people will even start bidding before the auction begins in order to get a good unit.

People often get very excited at auctions because there is the potential to find some great treasures.

You do not need to be present to win

You can still win an auction without being there. Yet, there are a few things that you will need to do in order to participate in an auction without being there. First, you will need to find a reputable auction company. Next, you will need to register for the auction and provide a method of payment. Finally, you will need to make sure that you have read and understood the terms and conditions of the auction.

Once you have taken care of these things, you can relax and wait for the results of the auction.

You have to be prepared to make a quick decision

When you go to an auction, there is a minimum bid that you have to put in if you want to participate in the auction. However, at some auctions, there is no minimum bid, so you can bid as little as you want. This can be helpful if you're looking for a bargain or if you're not sure how much something is worth. It also means that someone could potentially win an auction with a very low bid, so it's important to know what you're bidding on and be prepared to pay what the item is worth.

When you go to an auction, the bidding typically starts at 50% of the total. This is referred to as the opening price. Keep in mind that this is just the starting point, and the price can go up from there. In order to get an idea of what the final price might be, you need to take into account how much inventory is being auctioned off. If there are a lot of items for sale, then the price will likely go up. Conversely, if there are not many items being auctioned off, then the price could potentially go down.

The bidding increments at an auction are typically $5 or $10. This means that when someone bids, the next bid must be at least $5 higher than the previous bid or $10 higher than the previous bid. This system keeps the bidding going and prevents people from just bidding a dollar amount and walking away with the unit. It also ensures that people are serious about buying the unit.

It can be unpredictable

Storage auctions can be unpredictable. For example, one person might bid on a unit with the intention of finding valuable items to sell, while another person might bid on the same unit with the intention of finding furniture or other household items they can use in their home. This means that the final price of a storage unit can vary drastically depending on who is bidding and how much they are willing to pay. This is all part of the fun!

You've Won Your Storage Unit, Now What?

The highest bidder wins the unit and many times is responsible for paying all of the fees, including the auctioneer's commission and any storage charges that have accrued since the unit was last paid for.

In addition, bidders are typically required to put down a deposit in order to participate in an auction, which is often refundable if they do not win the property. Finally, it's important to be aware of the closing costs, which can include transfer taxes, title insurance, and other fees.

Final Thoughts

If you wish to know more about storage auctions, don't hesitate to contact South Rock Storage, a reliable storage facility in Wichita, KS. At South Rock Storage, auctions may be hosted once a month if there are units that have been abandoned.

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A man and woman carefully preparing their boxes for storage at South Rock Storage in Wichita, KS

How Much Fits Into a 5x10 Storage Unit?

This guide gives you some tips on how to maximize the space in your 5x10 storage unit. You'll also learn what is best suited for this size storage unit.

A 5x10 storage unit can hold a significant amount of items. Typically, this is enough space to store the contents of a one-bedroom apartment, including furniture, appliances, and boxes of personal belongings. Some people use their 5x10 storage units to store seasonal items, like holiday decorations and winter clothing. Others use them as extra space for their businesses, storing inventory, office supplies, and marketing materials. A 5x10 storage unit can probably accommodate whatever you need to keep. Please scroll down to see our guide on what fits into this storage unit size for maximum efficiency. Why is a 5x10 storage unit a popular size? For several reasons, a 5x10 storage unit is a popular size for many students and residents of small apartments in Wichita, Kansas. 5x10 storage units are perfect for one-bedroom apartments or small homes (like student housing). You can usually fit everything from a one-bedroom apartment into this size—including furniture, appliances, and boxes of personal belongings. Many people have extra furniture or items that just won't fit in their current space. These units are perfect for storing those items until you have room in your home to bring them inside. If you have a large enough vehicle to transport them to your storage unit, you can put some larger pieces of furniture inside the unit and store them until you need them. These storage units are great if you need to keep things safe from harm or the elements (like rain and extreme temperatures). Many storage facilities in Wichita, KS, like South Rock Storage, offer climate-controlled units, which is something to consider if you're storing items sensitive to temperature changes. If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, you know how important it is to protect your belongings from the heat, cold, humidity, and other weather conditions. Climate-controlled storage units are kept at a consistent temperature and humidity level, so you can rest assured that your things will be safe from the elements. Students who need extra space when they go off to college or university can also use these units because they won't be able to take all their belongings with them. Instead of leaving essential papers around where anyone could find them (and potentially steal), students will want somewhere safe where no one else has access except for themselves—especially when living away from home for extended periods! They're also great for people looking to move out soon but don't have a place lined up. Let's say you've decided to move out of the basement and into your place. Moving out is exciting, but it can also be a stressful time. You might not have found a new home yet, or you may be looking for something in another city where it's hard to travel back and forth between locations. If this sounds like you, then renting a 5x10 storage unit may solve one of your problems. When you rent a 5x10 storage unit, all your belongings will be in one convenient place until you find somewhere else to live—and this is much cheaper than paying movers every time you need to move something from your old house or apartment! 5x10 storage units are great for people who are just starting to move out on their own. They're also great for people looking to move out soon but don't have a place lined up. Businesses also often choose this size for storing excess inventory and office equipment. If you own a small business, you know that space is often limited. You might not have the room to keep all of your inventory on-site, or you might need to free up some space in your office for new equipment. In either case, a 5x10 storage unit can help! You can use a 5x10 storage unit to store excess inventory, seasonal items, marketing materials, and more. This way, you'll have more room in your office or storefront and won't have to worry about your things getting damaged or stolen. 5x10 Storage Unit Guide A 5x10 storage unit is perfect for storing a few pieces of furniture or several boxes. Here is a guide on how much you can fit into a 5x10 storage unit. Furniture: Depending on the size of your furniture, you can fit 1-2 bedrooms' worth of furniture into a 5x10 storage unit. This includes a bed, dresser, nightstand, and lamp. Boxes: You can fit approximately 20-30 medium-sized boxes into a 5x10 storage unit. This is an excellent option for storing seasonal items or non-essentials. Miscellaneous Items: If you have more oversized items that don't fit into boxes, a 5x10 storage unit is a great option. You can store items such as bicycles, patio furniture, and grills. A 5x10 storage unit provides you with ample space to store your belongings. You can use this unit with a few pieces of furniture or several boxes. Whether you are looking to store seasonal items or non-essentials, a 5x10 storage unit is excellent for your needs. Final Thoughts If you want an efficient way to pack up your belongings quickly and safely until your next move, look no further than the affordable 5x10 unit. In addition, many storage units in Wichita, KS, offer easy access through wide doors that can accommodate most vehicles. If you require some extra storage space and are considering a 5x10 unit, be sure to contact South Rock Storage today. We have the perfect solution for your needs, whether you're looking for short-term or long-term self-storage in Wichita, KS.
Portrait of adult man moving boxes into South Rock Storage

How to Choose the Best Storage Unit Facility

There are many factors to consider when choosing a self storage facility. Here's how to find one that's right for you and your situation.

Whether you're downsizing your home or need a place to store extra belongings, finding the best self-storage facility in Wichita, KS, can be tricky. With so many options available, how do you know which one is right for you? Here are some tips to help you choose the proper storage unit facility for your needs. What Is a Self-Storage Facility? A self-storage facility is a popular option for people (or businesses) who need extra storage space. These facilities allow you to rent a unit for a set time, usually month-to-month. Self-storage units come in various sizes, so you can choose one that's just right for your needs. Also, most facilities offer climate-controlled units, which help to protect your belongings from the elements. Choosing a clean, well-lit, well-reviewed facility with security measures in place is essential. What Are the Different Types of Self-Storage Facilities? There are several different types of self-storage facilities, including: Mini storage These facilities typically have smaller units that are perfect for storing a few items. Mini storage units are often less expensive than other types of storage units. Full-service storage These facilities offer a wide range of storage options, making them perfect for storing a few items (like the contents of a bedroom) and more oversized items (like the contents of an entire home). Full-service storage facilities offer additional services, such as packing and moving assistance. Vehicle, RV, and Boat storage These facilities offer secure storage for your car, RV, or boat. Vehicle storage units are typically larger than other storage units and may be more expensive. Climate-controlled storage This type of facility offers temperature and humidity-controlled units, which helps protect your belongings from damage. Climate-controlled storage units are popular for storing electronics, furniture, and other items sensitive to the environment. The Benefits of Using a Self-Storage Facility There are several benefits to using a self-storage unit in Wichita, KS, including: Peace of mind Knowing that your belongings are stored safely and securely can give you peace of mind. Self-storage units are typically more secure than keeping your belongings in your home. Convenience Self-storage facilities are typically open 24 hours a day, making it convenient for you to access your belongings when needed. They're also usually located near major highways, making them easy to find. Flexibility Most self-storage facilities offer month-to-month leases, so you're not stuck with a long-term commitment. This gives you great flexibility as you store your belongings. What to Consider Before Choosing a Facility Now that you know what a self-storage facility is and the available different types, how do you choose the perfect one for your needs? Here are a few tips: Your needs What do you need to store? How much space do you need? Do you need climate control? Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options. You can also ask friends or family for recommendations. Price Once you know what you need, compare the prices of different self-storage facilities. The right self-storage facility can save you lots of money, so check out the offers and ask for a free quote before making your final decision. Self-storage facilities charge by the month, so be sure to factor that into your budget. However, some facilities do not disclose pricing information online, so contact them directly. Location When looking for a self-storage facility, finding one conveniently near you is essential. This will make it easy to access your belongings when you need them. Size When it comes to self-storage, size does matter. Renting a unit that is too small will not give you the storage space you need and could end up costing you more in the long run. The best scenario is that you have a large enough unit for all your items with a little extra space. Here are a few things to keep in mind when deciding on the size of your self-storage unit: How much stuff do you need to store? What type of stuff do you need to store? How often do you plan to access your belongings? If you are unsure which size unit is right for you, most self-storage facilities offer free consultations with staff members who can help you determine which size best suits your needs. Security You want to know they're secure when you're storing your belongings. Ensure the facility has adequate security measures, such as 24-hour surveillance and gated access. Reviews Once you've narrowed down your options, take the time to read reviews of each facility. This will help you get a better idea of each facility's quality. You can also ask the facility for references. Climate control feature Climate control is an important feature to consider when renting a storage unit in Wichita, KS. The feature helps to regulate the temperature and protect belongings from weather-related damage. Climate control is not as important in climates where it is warm year-round. However, climate control is a must-have feature in areas like Wichita, where temperature can change drastically. Customer service You should feel comfortable with the staff at your chosen facility. Be sure to ask about their policies and procedures to get a better idea of their customer service level. Choosing the best self-storage facility doesn't have to be complicated. By considering your needs and comparing prices, you can find the right storage unit facility for your belongings. And don't forget to read reviews and ask for references to get a better idea of the quality of the facility. Choose the Best Storage Unit Facility in Wichita If you're looking for the best storage unit facility, look no further than South Rock Storage. We've been in business since 2006, serving the diverse storage needs of our happy customers. Call us at 316-618-8282 or contact us through our online form.
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FAQ

You have questions, we have answers.

When can I move in? 

If there is a storage space available that meets your specific storage needs you can move in anytime.

How much notice needs to be given before I move out? 

All contracts are month-to-month. However, we do require a 10 day notice before you move out.

What type of documentation do I need to provide in order to rent a space? 

We require a government issued photo ID (example: driver’s license, state ID, or passport)

How do I make a payment? 

VISA, MasterCard and Discover (credit / debit) are the preferred method of payment. We also accept checks or money orders.

Are there any items that I am not able to store? 

Liquids, explosives, flammable liquids, toxic materials and perishables. Please contact us if you have any questions regarding a specific item.

Does there have to be someone to let me through the security gates? 

No. At the time of signing you will be given your own security pass code that will allow you convenient access to your unit.

What forms of payment do you accept? 

For your convenience, we suggest signing up for automatic payments – using your valid credit card (VISA, Mastercard, or Discover) or debit card. There is no additional charge for this convenience and it avoids late fees. We also have a drop box for after hour payments.

Do I need to sign a long-term lease? 

No, we rent on a month-to-month basis unless the customer requests otherwise.

Do I need to bring my own lock? 

No. As part of the Move In process, a INSET lock is included with the small admin fee. This type of lock is nearly impossible to breach – and only you will have a key for it. In addition, you may double lock the door, if you prefer.

What are the office hours? 

Tuesday - Friday: 9AM – 5PM
Saturday: 9AM – 4PM
Monday, Sunday: CLOSED

We're conveniently located in Wichita, KS

8282 East Oak Knoll St.,
Wichita, KS 67207

Contact us

We're here to help you find the perfect unit.

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Office Hours
Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday: 9AM - 5PM
Wednesday: 9AM - 5PM
Thursday: 9AM - 5PM
Friday: 9AM - 5PM
Saturday: 9AM - 3PM
Sunday: CLOSED
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