Self-storage is a wonderful invention that has provided many around the world with extra space in their living area and working environments.

As useful as self-storage can be, it is natural to have second thoughts about using it, especially if the concept is new to you.

At Extra Space Asia, we are prepared to answer all your questions to give you peace of mind early in your storage journey. Here are some of the answers to the most commonly asked questions by our customers.

What are self-storage units, and what is the average size?

A self-storage unit is a space you rent to store your belongings. You can use your rented space to store almost anything you want, with the exception of a few items—contrabands, perishables, food, flammable materials and prohibited objects.

In general, storage size ranges from as small as 10 square feet to as large as you require. This range serves to accommodate the different requirements that you might face at different stages of your life.

What is the cost of renting a self-storage unit?

The answer to this question will vary based on your storage size, storage duration, storage location, and ongoing promotions. However, prices will generally range from $50 per month (subject to ongoing promotions) for the smallest unit.

To get an accurate quote, simply contact us at 6771 3100 with your requirements so we can help you select the best storage size suited for you at the most affordable price.

Is it possible to tour the storage unit before renting it?

It is absolutely possible to tour your storage unit before renting. In fact, we will highly recommend that you do so!

Just like you will not be likely to purchase a house before visiting, you are not expected to rent a storage unit without first seeing it for yourself. This ensures that the recommended storage space will fit your requirements and hold all your belongings.

Can I access my storage unit anytime I want to? 

Feel free to retrieve, access, or simply take a look at your items any time of the day, any day of the week.

If you have any other questions we did not answer in this article, please feel free to drop us a call at 6771 3100, and we’ll be more than glad to answer them!

From Left to Right: Gary Phua (Senior Marketing Executive), Faisal Kamaludin (Marketing Director), Michelle Lee (Assistant Marketing Manager), Kenneth Worsdale (Chief Executive Officer), Susanna Ho (Operations Director), Ryan Ng (Chief Financial Officer).

Extra Space Asia has been awarded by Superbrands yet again as Singapore’s Favourite Self-Storage Brand! Another big success for us this year as we receive the award for the fifth year.   

“It is an honour to be awarded Singapore’s Favourite Self-Storage Brand for the 5th year running. We would not have been able to achieve this without the hard work and dedication of every employee; it is truly is a team effort. Huge thanks to our customers for their unwavering support and trust that they have in us; we could not be more grateful”, said Kenneth Worsdale, Chief Executive Officer of Extra Space Asia. 

The Superbrands Status is awarded for quality, reliability and distinction across a comprehensive list of brand categories. It is offered to only the most outstanding brands, allowing the company to strengthen the brand position, adding prestige and reassuring customers that they are buying the best brand in its category.  

“This award serves as a strong motivation and gives the team reason to constantly try to better themselves. Rest assured that the gears are in motion already, and 2023 promises to be a great year”, said Kenneth. 

Our credibility and trust are attributed to our success. The award makes us reflect more on our business as we have committed ourselves to provide excellent customer service. Building our brand’s reputation and customer loyalty is a continuous and long-term goal that we strive towards. 

Extra Space Asia is the first self-storage company in the country to offer a loyalty programme where customers are able to redeem their loyalty points via the Yes! app for a multitude of rewards from over 50 participating merchants. 

Self-storage has seen an increase in demand in recent years. However, there are still several misconceptions floating around.

Unfortunately, these myths can either dissuade you from renting a storage unit or use them for the wrong reasons. You may have heard them vaguely from someone else and became needlessly concerned.

Rest assured, here are some common myths finally debunked!

Self-storage is not safe and secure

One of the most common misconceptions about renting self-storage spaces is that they are not safe.

However, not only is that untrue, but self-storage spaces in Singapore have a high level of security! Most self-storage facilities are equipped with 24/7 CCTV surveillance with PIN code access, ensuring that only you can access your storage unit.

At Extra Space, we offer additional security features such as:

  • Regular security patrol around the storage area
  • Regular security checks by the facility staff during business hours
  • Monitored individual storage alarm, which activates upon intrusion when PIN code is not activated
  • Locked by your own padlock so that none of our staff can access your storage unit
  • Smart access storage with digital locks (Only available at selected storage facilities)
  • Recorded 24/7 CCTV footage

Renting a storage unit is expensive

Another common myth about renting a self-storage unit is that they are expensive and only meant for those who are well-off. This belief is reinforced by reality TV shows depicting storage with priceless antiques, paintings and collections.

The truth is, self-storage is for everyone, regardless of monetary wealth or status. There are different types of storage space created to cater to different needs.

The cost of renting a self-storage space will differ due to storage size, duration and ongoing promotions, starting from $50 per month.

You can only rent self-storage for long term

Whenever you mention ‘self-storage’, most people would often think of ‘long-term’, leading many to believe that renting a self-storage unit is a long-term commitment.

While this may be true in the past, many self-storage companies are now offering more flexible storage options for their tenants who only require the space short-term!

At Extra Space, the shortest lease period is 14 days, slightly shorter than the standard in the industry. You do not have to worry about signing up for the long haul if you do not need it.

Furthermore, if you require a longer lease period after your 14 days are up, you can even opt to extend the lease!

Clean Self Storage

You can store anything in your self-storage space

There are no restrictions on what you can store in a self-storage space

In movies, characters always seem to have everything they need to be stored conveniently in their self-storage space, including items that may be considered hazardous, flammable, toxic, and even dangerous.

However, most self-storage companies will restrict what you are allowed to store in your storage unit. Here is the list of some of the most common items that are not allowed in your storage;

  • Flammable or Combustible Materials
  • Radioactive, Hazardous, and Toxic Materials
  • Plants and Living Items
  • Perishable Goods and Food

If you are unsure if the item is allowed to be stored in your storage unit, simply ask any of our customer service advisors, and they will be happy to assist you!

Multi Size Self Storage

Storage spaces offered are all large warehouses

Storage providers in Singapore provide a wide range of sizes for their units. You can select the storage size you need based on your requirements.

At Extra Space Asia, our storage sizes range from as small as 6 square feet to as large as you require!

Still not sure how much space you need? Just speak to our customer service advisors!

Only hoarders and business owners make use of self-storage

Another common misconception that people have is that only hoarders and business owners make use of self-storage. While this is partly true, it does not mean that the average person does not use self-storage.

At Extra Space Asia, we have customers who use storage spaces for a wide variety of reasons, such as:

  • Storing seasonal items
  • Storing items while relocating
  • Store furniture, appliances, and other belongings while their home/office is undergoing renovation
  • Storing archive
  • Storing their collections
  • Storing memorial items, such as marble plaque or personal diary

People can live and sleep inside their storage space

This is one of the more bizarre self-storage myths out there. However, people are not allowed to live and sleep inside their storage space.

A storage unit is specifically designed for storing items while keeping the outside elements such as dust, dirt, water, and sunlight away from your belongings.

This meant there would be no windows or water/electric supply. Furthermore, the room will be completely sealed. As such, it will be highly unsafe to live in your storage unit.

Store at Extra Space Asia

Misinformation is rampant in the digital landscape – and self-storage is among its many victims. If you are uncertain about the information you have received, feel free to call us at 67713100 so that we can provide you with the correct information.

Loading bays are a highly convenient amenity for self-storage facilities. They enable you to load and unload your belongings while staying sheltered from the sun and weather. For this reason, most self-storage facilities should have at least one loading bay.

 

Read on to find out how a loading bay can benefit you when storing at a self-storage facility.

 

Efficiency

With a loading bay, you will be able to park your vehicle as near as possible to your storage area, allowing you to load and unload your belongings with minimum fuss. Furthermore, a loading bay is often beside the cargo lift and trolley bay, granting you easy access to your storage units.

 

Safety

Having a loading bay also reduces the risk of injury as the trolley bay and lifts are close to you. This benefit also means you will be able to immediately unload your belongings onto a trolley, thus minimising the risk of back injuries.

 

Protection from the elements

Singapore has fairly consistent weather whereby it is most of the time — it is hot and humid. However, we are also affected by the two monsoon seasons (Northeast Monsoon and Southwest Monsoon) that can result in a heavy thunderstorm.

 

During these periods, a sheltered loading bay protects you from getting wet and reduces the risk of water damaging your belongings. On hot days, the sheltered loading bay also doubles as a shade while you unload your belongings.

 

If your belongings are temperature sensitive, it is advisable to select a self-storage facility with a sheltered loading bay.

Self-storage has been around in Asia for almost 20 years, and yet, there are still many misconceptions about it. One of the few myths is that people only rent self-storage space to store their business inventories. But this is not the case as you will read below. Here are some common myths about renting a self-storage space and the truth behind them.

Storage rental is only for business owners

One recurring myth about self-storage is that it is used for business only. But in reality, more people use self-storage to store personal belongings as compared to businesses! From storing seasonal holiday decorations or unused household items to vintage toy and personal wine collection, ‘non-business’ storage owners use self-storage space for a myriad of personal reasons.

Only large storage spaces are available for rental

So untrue! At Extra Space Asia, customers can select from a wide range of storage sizes, from as small as 10 square feet to as large as over 400 square feet. Furthermore, there are a variety of storage types to fit just about your every need.

Spaces are only available for long-term storage rental

Not everyone will require long-term storage, especially if you are storing your personal belongings. Self-storage companies usually offer flexible storage rental period, from as short as 14 days to as long as you require.

Self-storage facilities are dirty

Another perception most people have about self-storage is that its facet is similar to an industrial warehouse. While ‘dirty’ self-storage facilities are rare in Singapore due to the strict rules and regulations, a professional self-storage company should come equipped with modern features and presentable storage units.

The key thing to remember is to visit the storage facility first before you make your choice. If you are unsure what to look out for, check out these 4 Useful Tips When Choosing Your Self-Storage Provider in Singapore.

Renting a storage space is expensive

One of the most popular myth is that it is cost-intensive to rent a self-storage space. But did you know? Most self-storage space rentals are affordable, with the cost starting from as low as $50 per month.

However, the storage rates differ due to storage size, duration, location and ongoing promotions. To find out about what contributes to a storage space rental rate, find out more about the Cost of Renting a Self-Storage Space in Singapore.

Did we miss out on any other common self-storage myths? Let us know!

If you are still unsure or have more questions about self-storage, feel free to contact us today.

 

Love food and wine? Time to learn more about wine pairing basics so that you can enjoy them more or even create your own pairings over time. Here’s a simple food and wine pairing guide to try!

1.      Understanding the concept of wine pairing

The main concept of wine pairing is understanding how different elements, textures and flavours interact with each other. There are also six basic flavour profiles to experiment with – the acidity of the wine, fatty, bitter (aka tannic), salty, sweet and alcohol.

Once you understand these profiles, you can better find the right balance for a more enjoyable dining experience. However, the idea of wine pairing with food is also highly related to personal preferences and liking. So, always start your first fine wine pairing with your favourites.

2.      Red Wine Pairing

Did you know that red wines tend to taste more bitter than the other varieties? That is because red wines contain large amounts of tannin. Tannin is what makes wines taste dry or bitter. Red wines usually taste better with bold-flavoured meats (think red meat), because bitter wines like are best balanced with fats.

Here are some tasty combos that you can try:

  • Merlot can be a great wine to pair with Christmas turkey and roast ducks.
  • Pinot Noir pairs well with salmon, fatty fishes and beef.
  • For steak and lamb lovers, try pairing your meal with bold and high tannin wines like Cabernet Sauvignon.
  • Dishes with tomato-based red sauces go well with most red wines like Zinfandel or Merlot.

3.      White Wine Pairing

The difference between red and white wine is not only their colour. In fact, when it comes to the tastes of white wine, you will find that some are very sweet, while others are dry; some even have a light, fruit flavour. White wines are usually paired with light-intensity meats like fish or chicken. Rule of thumb: the leaner the meat, the lighter the wine.

Here are some of our pairing suggestions:

  • Chardonnay, a medium white wine, goes well with appetisers, salads, chicken and cream sauce dishes.
  • Albariño is a wine where you can try to pair with prawns, mussels and shellfish.
  • Dry riesling would be an ideal wine for vegetarian dishes with light or no sauces.
  • Sauvignon blanc, a crisp white wine, can be paired with goat cheese, oysters and green vegetable dishes.

We hope that these 3 basic tips will help you with your wine pairing journey. Besides wine pairing, do remember to also use the correct wine glasses to enjoy your wines better too.

If you own a growing wine collection and love hosting your loved ones, Extra Space Asia Self-Storage is definitely the place to store your wines. Here, you can enjoy a wide range of storage units for your wine collections, with exclusive access to the Wine Tasting Room in the facility where you can enjoy a glass or two with your friends and family any time!

Call us today at 6771 3100 to find out more or simply click here.

 

Ah, the self-storage facility. You drive by this place almost on a daily basis, thinking about how organised your home can be if you store some of your items there. But, have you ever wondered how secure the self-storage facility is? Here are some of the security features to look out for to ensure that your belongings are safe and secure in the storage facility. 24-7 recorded CCTV security system

24/7 recorded CCTV security system

Starting off with the most basic, a 24/7 recorded CCTV security system is a must-have. This system records all activities in the storage facilities 24/7. Be sure to check with the storage facility staff on the coverage of the CCTV to ensure that you are fully covered!

PIN code access system

Some storage facilities offer card access, while others offer PIN code access. In our opinion, a PIN Code access system has a greater advantage simply because you do not need to carry around an additional card in your wallet! The PIN code access system also ensures that all visitors and staff are required to key in a unique PIN code for verification purposes before they are allowed to access the storage. Furthermore, all entries will be recorded so that we can review them if necessary.

Proper employee protocol

To ensure that your belongings are guarded with TLC (tender loving care), check with the storage facility staff on their daily routine to reduce theft or fire. Ensure that they have a daily routine to inspect the facility for any damages, unlocked storage units or even cleanliness! Furthermore, you can check with them on what they will do if they found out your unit is unlocked. Proper employee protocol

Well-maintained storage facility

A well-maintained storage facility may be the last thing that you will think of when it comes to security. However, it is the most important factor. Having a well-maintained storage facility ensures that all fences, lighting, security system, storage panels or any other security features are always in tip-top shape. Storage facilities that do not repair any damages to their security features will make it more susceptible to theft or fire.

Insurance for your storage

Lastly, always ensure that your storage comes with insurance protection. The insurance purchased safeguards your belongings in your storage space in the event of fire or theft. You might think that nothing will happen to you. But you will never know. It is always better to be safe than sorry.
You may know the importance of security in a self-storage facility as well as what to look out for when selecting a storage space. However, do you know what storage security features do Extra Space offer you when you sign up with them? Read on to find out more.

You’re on camera all the time

Did you know that every Extra Space Asia’s facility is equipped with 24/7 recorded CCTV security systems? The CCTV allows us to record all movements within our storage facilities all-day, all-year.

Unique and personalised PIN code

At Extra Space Asia, all our visitors are required to enter a unique PIN code for verification purposes before they are allowed access to the storage space. For added security, all entries will be recorded so that we will be able to review it, if necessary. If you have shared your PIN code with your friend, do remember to change your PIN code once you have decided to restrict their access.

Individual storage unit alarm system

All of our storage units are equipped with state of the art security alarms. To deactivate your storage unit alarm, simply key in your PIN code at the entrance before you head to your storage unit. Once you are done storing/retrieving your belongings, simply key in your PIN code again at the exit to arm your storage security alarm. Well Maintained Storage Facility

Well-maintained storage facility

We pride ourselves as one of the best maintained storage facility in the industry. You may not think that this is important, but having a well-maintained storage facility ensures that all security systems are working properly. Our facility managers routinely patrol the storage facility to ensure that everything is in order.

Trained security guards

On top of routine inspections, Extra Space Asia also has 24/7 security guard protection. Our friendly guards will not only patrol the storage facility, but they will also ensure that there are no suspicious activities within the premises.

Insurance for your storage

Lastly, Extra Space Asia requires all customers to purchase storage insurance before storing with us. This insurance will be factored in your storage quote, safeguarding your belongings with an additional layer of security in the event of theft of fire. Insurance For Storage Check out all the above security features yourself! Drop us a call at +65 6771 3100 to arrange a tour around our facilities today.

Did you know wine is made from fermented grape juice? However, the grapes used are not the usual ones we serve and eat as a fruit – who knew!

There’s more where that came from. Here are 10 fun facts about wine you should know as a wine lover.

  1. The world oldest wine cellar was found in present-day Israel, Tel Kabri in 2013 when archaeologist uncovered jugs which had not been uncovered since they toppled around 1600B.C. Perhaps due to an earthquake in the past, the wine jars were left untouched for centuries.

 

  1. The corks on the wine bottles are primarily made from the bark of Cork Oak Tree. These trees reach maturity after around 25 years of growing. Upon maturity, the harvesters will strip the bark with an axe. After which, the tree will need a minimum of nine years to regrow its bark for the next harvest. This process does not harm the tree, and each tree can provide around 12 harvest worth of cork in its lifetime.

 

  1. Based on The Telegraph, the most expensive wine in the world was not made in Italy or France but in America-Oakville, California. Due to the rarity and small quantities of wine produced from there, the wine has achieved cult status. A bottle of Screaming Eagle Cabernet Sauvignon 1992 managed to fetch a whopping USD$500,000 for a charity auction in 2000.

 

  1. There are five types of wine, namely red wines, white wines, sparkling wines, dessert or sweet wines and Rosé. Different glasses should be used with different wines as they affect the overall aromas and taste. Click here on how to choose the right wine glasses.

 

  1. Ice wine is a type of dessert wine the can only be produced in cold climates. Canada and Germany are the world largest producers of ice wines. It is made with grapes that have been frozen while on the vine. The sugar in the fruit, unlike water, do not freeze, allowing a more concentrated grape juice to be formed. Ice wine production is risky as in some years, the frost may not come at all before the grape rot. Due to the rising annual temperature, the production is limited to only a handful of countries with freezing temperatures. Therefore, the cost of one ice wine is typically more expensive and only sold in a small 375ml bottle as compared to the usual 750ml wine bottle.

 

  1. According to Medical News Today, red wines are high in resveratrol and may offer many health benefits. Resveratrol is a compound that plants produce to fight bacteria and fungi and to protect against ultraviolet (UV) irradiation. It may boost our heart health, protect us against some forms of cancer and can even prevent vision loss. One study also shows that drinking a glass of red wine can decrease cardio-metabolic risk in people with type-2 diabetes. Therefore, red wine seems to be healthier than other alcoholic beverages in the market.

 

  1. Wine tasting is not wine drinking. During a professional wine tasting session, wines tend to be judged and evaluated. Most wine tasting session includes people sipping and spitting the wines they tasted. However, it can also be a session where you learn about what kinds of wines you prefer. As time goes by, you can also gain more experience and confidence in your assessment of the wines you taste.

 

  1. In reality, most wines are not designed to age. Contrary to most belief, most wines we buy in stores do not improve with age. Generally, everyday red wines have about a 5-year life span, and everyday white and rosé wines remain in their optimal state for only 2 to 3 years. So, remember to check with your seller for a wine’s ageing period before your purchase.

 

  1. In need of a faster way to chill your wines? Simply use an ice bucket, cold water, ice and salt and you will be able to chill your wine in 10 minutes. The addition of salt is to melt the ice and reduce the freezing point of water so that you can chill your wines faster.

 

  1. Accidentally spilled some wine on your brand-new white top? Don’t worry, all you need is some table salt to get rid of the wine stains. First, blot the wine stain with a dry paper towel. Cover the stain in salt and let it sit for at least an hour. Finally, dab the wine stain with hot water. And voilà, good as new. You’re welcome!

Love sipping on a glass of wine? Unlike drinking water and soft drinks which we can just pour into any cup available, we should use the right wine glass for the different type of wines we drink. The right glass can improve the taste of your wine, and believe it or not, there is actually a science behind choosing the correct wine glass.

If you are an avid wine collector, a wine merchant or a restaurateur, you might already have a collection of over ten different types of wine glasses to match your various wines available.

However, if you are someone who loves to drink wines with your friends and family only during special occasions, consider owning at least 3 glasses that can be used for red, white and sparkling wines accordingly. This will go a long way to elevate the flavours of the wine.

Two glasses of white and red wine

Two glasses of white and red wine with food at sunset, toned

Here’s how we can choose the correct wine glass:

  • Red wine: Look for a wider bowl with a narrow rim. Glasses with wider bowls let you give your wine a generous swirl to allow some oxygen into the wine to open up its aromas. Red wines also tend to taste smoother from a wine glass with wider openings.
  • White wine: Find a wine glass that is more U-shaped with a smaller bowl compared to the red wine glasses – it should still have a narrow rim and stem. A smaller bowl allows the wines to maintain a cooler temperature.
  • Sparkling wine and dessert wine: Use an upright and narrow bowl flute wine glass with a stem. This will help preserve the wine’s flavour and carbonation.

There is also an option of purchasing an all-purpose wine glass for those who have a lack of space or a budget. With these all-purpose wine glasses, the experience of drinking the wine might not be as upscale, but they do serve a similar function at a lower cost.

White and Red Wine in Stemless Glasses

White and red wine in modern stemless glasses, with slate and timber background with copy space.

Here’s what to take note when choosing an all-purpose wine glass:

  • With stem: Find a bowl size and shape that is in between the red and white wine glasses. In this case, you can use it for drinking both white and red wines.
  • Without stem: Find a bowl size and shape that is in between the red and white wine glasses. One thing to note is that glasses without stem tend to warm our wines much faster as our hands are in contact with the wine bowl all the time. Although these glasses look contemporary in design, they may affect the taste of the wine.

Choosing the ideal wine glass is one factor in ensuring your wine’s optimal taste. On top of choosing the correct wine glasses, you should take note of the following to ensure that your wines are in their best condition:

  • Art of holding your wine
  • Serving and pouring your wine
  • Proper storage of wines – Find out more

Cheers to finding that perfect wine glass for that perfect wine!