Whether you’re moving, downsizing, decluttering, or just need a little extra space to store your belongings, renting a storage unit is a practical and affordable solution. There are many options available, varying in size, features, and price. If you’re unsure where to begin, this guide will walk you through the process of choosing the best storage unit to keep your belongings safe and secure.
Table of Contents
Considerations
A quick Google search for “storage units near me” will bring up a lot of options, but before you’re ready to rent, there are several factors to consider.
Location
When selecting a storage unit, the location is often the first thing you’ll consider. If you will need to access your stored items regularly, you’ll want something close to your home or workplace. You can even rent a portable storage unit and keep it right at home through companies like PODS or 1-800-PACK-RAT.
On the other hand, if you’re storing things you won’t need to access frequently, you can save money by selecting a unit further from town. Storage units in more remote areas often come with lower monthly rates compared to those in high-demand urban centers.
Size
Choosing an appropriately sized storage unit in advance will save you a lot of time and hassle. Rent one that’s too small, and you won’t have enough room for your belongings. Rent one that’s too large, and you’ll end up paying for space you don’t need. Start by taking an inventory of all the items you want to store and consider how much space they’ll require.
Usually, storage units come in standard sizes, like 5×5, 5×10, 10×10, and up to 10×30. A 5×5 unit is comparable to a small closet, so it’s ideal if you only have a few boxes to put away. For very few items, a storage locker rather than a storage unit might do the job. A 10×10 can hold the contents of a one-bedroom apartment, while a 10×20 or larger can accommodate the contents of a multi-bedroom home. If you’re not sure, many facilities might offer a walk-through or a more thorough sizing guide.
“People often underestimate the amount of space they will need, and this can result in not utilizing the available space effectively or having to use multiple units. I once rented a 10×10, thinking that it would contain my personal items, only to find myself in need of a 10×20 after unpacking everything.
My second important tip is to take into account the climate control of sensitive equipment. Not everyone pays attention to temperature and humidity levels, but storing valuable and sentimental items in non-climate-controlled units can destroy them. I have had clients who stored documents or electronics in ordinary units, and at the end of the month, they were lost. By deciding to rent a climate-controlled unit, you may save yourself a headache.”
Daniel Vasilevski, Director/Owner, Pro Electrical
Accessibility
Not all facilities offer the same level of access, so it’s essential to ask questions before you commit. Many locations provide 24/7 access, giving you the freedom to come and go as you please. However, some facilities have operational business hours or require advance notice before you visit. Consider your schedule. Do you work late nights? Do you foresee yourself needing to grab your gear quickly on weekends or holidays?
Security
A storage facility’s security is an important consideration, especially if you plan to store valuable or sentimental items. Before selecting a unit, ask questions about what security features are offered. Many will provide you with a lock and key as part of your package. Others will expect you to supply your own, particularly if you’re renting a mobile storage unit at home.
Check if the facility offers insurance on your items as part of your rental package. Even if your items are locked away safely, accidents like fire, flooding, or severe weather events can still occur. When comparing options, a facility’s commitment to security is a strong indicator of how seriously it takes your trust.
Cleanliness and Maintenance
A clean, well-maintained building helps prevent pest infestations, mold from moisture buildup, and other hazards that may cause damage to your belongings over time. If you can, tour the facility. Take note of how the individual storage lockers and containers look. Are the common areas tidy and well-kept? Are the units rusty or damaged? Check the online reviews for the facility and keep an eye out for any mentions of pests or mold.
On the other hand, if you’re renting a storage unit at home, much of the cleanliness and general upkeep will fall to you. Consider if you are willing to take on that responsibility. If you’re pressed for time, it might be better to leave it up to a trusted facility away from home.
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Features
Some facilities have units with additional features, like drive-up access, climate control, or temperature control. Not everyone will need these features, but if you’re storing items susceptible to damage from humidity or mildew, it’s worth the extra bucks.
Pricing and Lease Terms
While the actual cost of renting a storage unit can vary depending on all the aforementioned factors, you can assess the affordability by making comparisons between similar storage facilities in your area to get a baseline of what’s standard. Many facilities will offer promotions, like reduced rent for your first month or a free lock with your rental, but be sure to read the fine print. Ask whether the price is subject to change over time or if there are any other fees, like administrative charges, late payment penalties, insurance costs, or cancellation fees. For help finding budget-friendly storage options, check out this guide to the most affordable storage units that fit your needs.
Lease flexibility is another key factor. Most storage facilities operate on a month-to-month basis, which can be ideal for short-term use or uncertain timelines, but some will offer discounted rates if you commit to a longer lease.
“As the founder of an advertising company, I have rented storage units many times during campaigns, pop-ups, and office move transitions. One of my best tips is to read the move-out policy in advance. Some storage providers require advance notice, while others charge hidden taxes or fees. Before you sign a rent agreement, ask for written and legal termination terms.”
James Owen, Co-Founder & Director, Click Intelligence
Reserving Your Storage Unit
Once you’ve narrowed down your options, the next step is to call the facility and start the rental process. While many places offer online booking, speaking with someone directly can give you a better sense of the facility’s customer service and allow you to ask detailed questions. Be ready to answer questions, too. Know the date you want the agreement to begin, what size unit you’ll need, and what specific features you’re looking for.
If you don’t need the unit right away, you may be able to reserve it in advance. Assuming what you want is available and everything else sounds good, be prepared to sign a lease agreement. You’ll be expected to provide a valid ID and pay your deposit, either online or in person during business hours.
Storing Your Things
Once you’ve secured your storage unit, it’s time to move everything in—and a little extra thought and care can save you a lot of time and stress. Start by placing larger, heavier items like furniture and appliances at the back of the unit. Stack boxes by weight and durability, with the heaviest on the bottom and the lightest on top. If you’re storing a lot of boxes, label them so you can identify the contents quickly when you need to access them. Cover anything you expect to keep in storage for extended periods with breathable fabric covers to protect against dust.
Anything you’ll need to retrieve often, like seasonal gear, you’ll want to store towards the front somewhere easy to reach. Make sure to leave a small walkway through the unit to avoid having to drag everything out if you find yourself needing an item stored somewhere in the back. If you could use a bit of help with the arrangement or heavy lifting, hiring a local labor-only moving service can take a lot of the pressure off. Movers are trained to take advantage of the limited space in moving trucks, so they’ll know how to effectively arrange your items inside the storage unit.
Conclusion
Renting a storage unit is a smart, cost-effective, and flexible way to stay organized. By taking the time to consider important factors like location, size, accessibility, security, cleanliness, and pricing, you can find a unit that fits your needs and budget. Understanding the rental process and coming in informed and prepared will go a long way.
Remember, don’t hesitate to ask questions along the way, and be sure to look at a wide range of units to compare options before committing. And if you need help getting everything packed up and moved in, movers are an affordable option.
FAQs
Prices vary depending on size, location, security protocols, and various other factors. Small, basic units may start as low as $30–$50 per month. Larger or climate-controlled units can range from $100–$300 or more. While it may be tempting to select the cheapest option, the cost of renting the storage unit shouldn’t be the only deciding factor.
Most facilities prohibit hazardous materials, perishable food, flammable liquids, live animals, illegal items, and your person. As in, you cannot stay overnight.
It depends on your location, but as a general rule, reserving a few weeks in advance is good practice.
Renting your own storage container or storage unit at home might be a good option for you. These units are delivered directly to your home and are especially convenient for home renovations, local moves, or temporary storage without the hassle of driving to a facility. However, long-term, they often cost more, and some neighborhoods may have restrictions against them. Also, keep in mind how much driveway space you have!
The best lock for a storage unit is typically a disc lock or cylinder lock. Disc locks are resistant to bolt cutters and hard to pick due to their round shape and minimal exposed shackle. Cylinder locks slide directly into the door mechanism and offer great security, but they only work with certain doors.. Avoid using standard padlocks or combination locks, as they can be more easily cut or tampered with. When in doubt, ask the facility manager what type of lock they recommend. Some facilities may even provide or sell locks on-site.
J. Dailey has an English degree with a focus in technical writing. When not busy blogging, find J. Dailey hiking, playing tabletop games, or spending time with cats.
