Did you know the first storage unit was built in Los Angeles in the early 1920s? Milo Bekins built the first storage facility in a rapidly-growing Los Angeles. The Bekins Company is an inventor and leader in the moving and storage industry. Forbes Magazine 2016 article claimed there were 50,000 self-storage facilities located in the United States.
When we think of storage we think of metal or concrete buildings filled with general items like boxes, furniture and household belongings. I even think of Storage Wars the popular television show on A&E. I have actually bid on a few storage units. It was fun and I actually made some money. You might not think the wealthy of LA need storage, but when you are rich you have a lot of stuff. A lot of really nice stuff!
The rich and famous in Los Angeles purchase many collectible items from fine art, furnishings, jewelry, antiques, sports memorabilia and more. Not all of these items can fit into their homes. Purchasing a collection requires someone to help them pick it up, inventory it, pack it and store it. LA storage companies are making big money off LA’s ultra-rich. Companies like MakeSpace are experts in personally facilitating these types of storage needs.
Catering to Los Angeles’ affluent collectors has become big business for storage in LA. There is a lot of wealth being stored in high-end LA storage units. They focus on cataloging each item, packing it and proper storage including security. You can even request a particular item be brought to you. I doubt these high-end units will ever be aired on Storage Wars!
Not all celebrities are using high-end valet storage companies. Paris Hilton is famous for her unit going to auction for being past due on her balance. Aretha Franklin used a storage unit to protect her wardrobe after experiencing a house fire. In 2015 Ringo Starr decided to auction off several of his storage units. One contained John Lennon’s Gibson J-160E acoustic guitar which was auctioned off for $2.41 million dollars!
LA storage will even cater to specifics categories. From automobiles, jewelry, and fine artwork. There are even facilities for expensive wines and cigars!
Because real estate in LA is expensive, LA ranks 14 out of 20 as one of the most expensive places to rent a storage unit. Average price for a basic 5 x 5 can cost approximately $100 a month. High-end facilities like The Fortress are billed as the most-secure luxury facility. It is certified for up to a million dollars in coverage.
