How does a buyer access my unit?

Yes, this is a very basic question. Apologies up front if this info is listed somewhere else on your site.

I have a unit in Northern California whose contents that I'd like to sell before I move cross country. If I go the online auction path, and the unit's contents are sold / paid for, how does the buyer access my unit? Do I meet them at the unit (about 45 miles from where I live now). Do I provide them with the gate access code and the key to my unit?

Thanks in advance for answering my newbie questions!

Ann, welcome to the forum.

Yes, you'll need to meet the buyer at the storage facility. When you contact the buyer, ask them when they were planning to move the contents of the unit. Also ask how long and how many trips they estimate it will take.

Storage unit buyers are used to cleaning out a unit quickly. If it's convenient, consider waiting with them. This way you can make sure they take everything and not just cherry pick the good stuff, leaving you to dispose of the unwanted items.

If it's a larger unit that will take a considerable amount of time to move or if they plan on making multiple trips, you can make arrangements with the facility manager to allow the buyer access.

Be sure to remind the buyer to bring their own lock & broom, and ask them to sweep the unit out before leaving.

Thank you, Travis!

This is exactly what I needed, a step-by-step process 

Much obliged!

-=Ann

Glad to help!   

Do I provide them with the gate access code and the key to my unit?

Doing so could violate your contract agreement with the facility and make you liable for anything that buyer does wrong on the property. It's best that you meet them there and if it seems like they need to come back again, then ask the manager if he would let them in if they first came to the office.

Good point about the agreement! Since it's a large unit I'll plan to meet the buyer there (hopefully, not more than 2x) so that I can monitor the situation and remain in compliance with my storage unit agreement. I've been pleased with their service and would not want to burn any bridges.

Appreciate the extra info!