In today’s fast-paced and competitive business environment, it’s important to have the right information at the right time. A records storage service offers a cost-effective and secure solution for ensuring seamless access to—and protection for—your documents. But not all records storage providers are equal, especially when it comes to security, expertise and professionalism. So, when selecting a records storage provider, we suggest that you ask the following five questions:

1. How long have you been in business?

You don’t want a fly-by-night company handling your sensitive files and documents; you want a provider with longstanding experience serving companies like yours. Find out when your records storage provider opened its doors, ask them to provide client references, and contact those references.

2. Are you locally owned?

When you buy from an independent, locally-owned business rather than a national or regional business, significantly more of your money stays in the community and is used to make purchases from other local businesses and service providers. Partnering with a locally-owned records storage provider strengthens the economic base of your community.

3. How are my documents protected?

Identity theft and business fraud are big problems, and paper documents are just as susceptible as electronic data. It’s important to verify where and how your documents will be stored. A records center should be solidly constructed with concrete floors, walls and ceilings, and able to withstand extreme weather and natural disasters. Only background-screened and uniformed records management professionals should be allowed inside. Verify whether your provider’s record center is protected with the following equipment:

• Climate control systems
• Fire detection and prevention technology
• Security cameras

Your records should be picked up and delivered using strict chain of custody procedures, in GPS-tracked, alarmed and auto-locking vehicles.

4. How are my records tracked?

You deserve to know what you’re storing with your records storage provider, how much space you’re using, and when your documents are scheduled for destruction. Only partner with a records storage company that uses cutting-edge records technology to track and manage your documents and support your information management needs.

5. When can I access my storage inventory?

Storing your documents off-site doesn’t mean you have to give up easy access to them. You should be able to request your documents 24/7/365 through a secure online portal and have them hand delivered to your office or sent electronically by Scan on Demand that same day.

A records storage service can save your business time and money. To choose the right provider, ask the five crucial questions we’ve shared here. DeVries Business Services proudly serves businesses in Spokane, Eastern Washington, and Northern Idaho.