*Self-Storage Unit Auctions for Cheap Stuff*
By: TooshieGalore
08 July 2014

My sister rented a self-storage unit. While helping her haul stuff in, I happened to eye an auction in the unit across the aisle. That's cool, I thought, and called the manager to learn more. During the call he mentioned there would be another auction "tomorrow." I couldn't help myself – I wanted to find if there were bargains to be had.

I only went to watch, not to bid. I promised Hubby that I was only going for the experience. But, there was this one unit that seemed like it might be "something." The bid was only $50 when I heard the auctioneer yell, "Going once, going twice..." I just couldn't help myself – my hand flew up.

After paying my $50 I loaded up a big roll of chain link fence, a roll of razor wire, a nice, long, 12 gauge extension chord, a small chain saw and 100 ft of 5/8" galvanized chain with chain thingys on both ends. Already my car was loaded down. Called sister, she DID owe me a favor. Continued loading a set of lithium-battery power tools – drill, circular saw, recip saw, light in a nice bag along with misc hand tools. 2 down-alternative sleeping bags in itty-bitty stuff bags, a tent, 2 mountain-bikes complete with saddle bags, lights and helmets and a bunch of army surplus stuff that I didn't know what it all was. Hauling my new treasures home, I grinned the entire way. I just couldn't help myself – I knew Hubby would be thrilled.

Auctions occur because a unit renter goes delinquent. The self-storage company sells the contents to free up the space. If you decide to visit an auction go prepared for success:

• Call the manager of the self storage company to get dates, details and rules.
• Set a budget. It's easy to get caught up in the bidding excitement.
• Clothing and work gloves. You'll be given a few minutes to look over stuff before you bid. Stuff is dusty and dirty. Dress for it.
• Flashlight. To see stuff that may be stacked up in the back corner. Normally you are not allowed to touch or move anything. That's considered trespassing. You just have to see what you can see and accept any surprises after you win the auction.
• Cash. The only accepted payment at the auction I attended.
• Hand truck or dolly. Unless you're a 20-something Man-of-Steel, save your back. You don't know what you're getting until after you've won and can pull it all out.
• Truck or Trailer. The self-storage company I visited gave me 12 hours to remove my new treasures. Not a lot of time for multiple trips.
• Plan on stuff you don't want. I got some of that too but a swing by the Habitat Re-Store scored me a tax deductable receipt.
• Good friends. Work goes faster and is more fun when including friends.

I was lucky. I scored on my first adventure. If you've got an afternoon and an extra $50 you don't mind gambling, consider self storage unit auctions. But be warned – you might not be able to help yourself!

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