There are a wide variety of reasons why people need to make use of public or self-serve storage services. Many times, it’s because people are moving and their new home isn’t ready yet. In other cases, people may not have time to go through everything in their current home and want to store it temporarily before sorting through it.

And it’s not just people moving who need self-storage services. People also use safe, secure storage services to place valuable items, including artwork. And businesses can use storage space for extra furniture and equipment while a new office is built.

Whatever the case, America’s use of storage services continues to increase. About 38 percent of Americans recently used or planned to use storage space in 2021, with furniture ranking as the top item they need to store.

8 Things to Know Before Renting a Self-Storage Unit

Before you shop around for storage units, check with your movers. They may offer self-storage units as part of their services. The following are some of the frequent questions about public or self-storage services, along with some answers to point you in the right direction.

What Size Storage Do I Need?

This is the first issue people try to figure out. Units typically come in small, medium, and large sizes. First, check to find out the exact dimensions of the storage space. Then, you can estimate what you need by placing all your belongings from each room into a pile and measuring them – if it’s about 5×5, you’ll need about 25 cubic feet of storage space. Generally, a small unit cannot hold much outside of stacked boxes and maybe a small mattress. A medium can handle a medium-sized bedroom, while a large can handle a master bedroom.

What Do I Need to Rent a Storage Unit?

You’ll need a valid, government-issued ID. This can include a driver’s license, state registration card, passport, or military ID. You’ll sign a contract with the storage facility that will contain all the rules you must follow for use of the unit.

What Should I Look For In a Storage Unit?

You’ll want plenty of security, including 24/7 CCTV, in-person guards, and secure grounds. Get a storage unit with 24-hour access if you think you will need it, as well as a location that is convenient for you (don’t try to save money by renting a unit far from where you live).

How Much Will It Cost?

Cost is determined by the size of the storage unit. Also, while you can get a monthly contract with most storage services, they typically offer a discount if you sign up for a longer term. Storage companies may also charge more if the number of available units is low.

How Can I Save On Storage Unit Cost?

One proven method to save on storage unit costs is to properly pack your items. Make use of all the space at your disposal by stacking boxes to the ceiling. Take apart furniture and store it in pieces, taking up less space. Fill all the holes that occur when you start filling up the unit. But remember to leave an aisle down the middle, or you’ll have a hard time getting to those boxes in the back.

How Do I Transport My Stuff to a Storage Unit?

If the storage service is offered through a moving company, they often will provide transport of your goods to the unit at an additional charge. Some companies that own storage units may also provide trucks for you to move your items. Check into transportation services before signing a contract, as you don’t want to get caught having to transfer all your stuff in your own car.

Do I Need Climate Controlled Storage?

Climate control is helpful if you have certain items you plan to store. Without climate control, your belongings are at the mercy of extreme heat and cold, as well as humidity that can lead to mildew. Keep climate controlled storage unit if you plan to store any of the following, according to U.S. News.

• Wood furniture. Wood expands and cracks in extreme heat, while humidity causes warping and mold growth.
• Metal. High humidity leads to rust.
• Electronics. Extreme temperatures and high humidity shorten the life of electronics.
• DVDs, CDs, and vinyl records. Picture and sound quality deteriorate outside of a room temperature environment.
• Plastic. Extreme heat melts plastic, while cold cracks it.
• Antiques. Protect old pieces of furniture and artwork from the ravages of extreme temperatures.

What Items Can I Not Put Into Storage?

There are certain items you should never put into storage (and the storage service won’t allow them, anyway). They include flammable, combustible, or hazardous materials. You also cannot store food, which is going to go bad and/or attract all kinds of bugs. Also, you can’t put plants into a storage unit, as they will die quickly.
Storage services offer an affordable alternative for those who need a safe space to place items temporarily. It also can help those who have run out of time to go through and reduce their belongings.

Do You Need Temporary Storage As Part Of A Move? Call A Relocation Specialist Now at (561) 683-1313 to Discuss Your Needs

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Determine Why You Need a Storage Unit

Before making any decisions about where and how to store your belongings, you need to determine why you need storage in the first place. For some people, they need to temporarily store items while a new home is built or renovated. Or, they may move into a smaller place and need to keep items in storage for a longer period. Others are moving business and need to store office furniture and other items until a new building is completely ready.

Understanding exactly why you need a storage unit impacts how long you will rent storage space and the location and size of the storage unit.

Determine the Amount of Items To Be Stored

Now you know why you need it. The next step is to determine how much stuff you plan to put into it. Start by taking an inventory of everything you plan to put into the storage unit. This way, you won’t forget anything and accidentally put it into the “to move” pile rather than the “to store” pile.

After you know everything you plan to store, determine how much space they will take up once packed into boxes. You can do this right now by putting everything in boxes, stacking them up and measuring how much space they take up. Also, one typical hiccup is that people don’t account for items that are either too heavy to stack or have an awkward shape that requires more room. Keep these in mind when assessing the size of your storable belongings.

Choosing a Location

Typically, storage units in the city will cost slightly more than those in a more remote area. However, you must weigh this consideration against how many times you will need to access your storage. If you will need to get to it more often, the closer you are, the better. If it contains items you won’t need to use very often, then a more remote location could work out OK. This all goes back to understanding why you need the unit and the type of items you plan to store.

What Size Storage Unit Do You Need?

When it comes to size, one rule to remember is that you want a unit that will fit all your stuff but also offers room for you to maneuver. You want room to walk in and reach boxes, even if those all the way in the back. That keeps you from the mistake of getting too small a unit and having to dig through boxes to reach something you need.

Another issue to keep in mind are future needs. Some people rent a storage unit, only to discover they need to add more later. When you make your inventory list above, keep a separate list of things you might have to store later.

Assess the Storage Facility

When you visit a potential storage facility, make sure it is accessible at time when you will need to get to your belongings. Also, ensure there is proper security, including 24/7 CCTV. The complex should also have a strong fence surrounding it, secure and manned gates, and fire prevention equipment.

Why It’s Important To Choose The Right Storage Unit

You need to find the right size storage unit that will keep your important belongings safe and secure. However, you also need to find a storage unit that will give you the best value and fit your budget. Good Greek Moving & Storage has decades of experience in connecting people with a unit that will best serve their storage needs. When you contact us, we can show you the available storage space and help you pick the best storage unit for your situation.

Call For a Free Moving Estimate: (561) 683-1313

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