5 Tips for Choosing a Self Storage Unit
Published on 9/3/2023
Here are five tips to help you pick the right self-storage unit size:
Take Inventory: Before choosing a unit, create an inventory of all the items you plan to store. This includes furniture, boxes, appliances, and any other belongings. Having a detailed list will give you a better idea of the volume of items you need to store.
Consider Future Needs: Think about your storage needs not only for the present but also for the future. Are you planning to store more items later on? If so, it may be wise to rent a slightly larger unit than your current needs to accommodate future additions.
Use Online Tools: Many self-storage facilities offer online calculators or size guides to help you estimate the right unit size based on the number and types of items you have. These tools can be a valuable resource in determining the appropriate size.
Visit the Facility: If possible, visit the storage facility in person to get a visual sense of the available unit sizes. Seeing the units firsthand can help you better gauge their dimensions and whether they will suit your needs. Facility staff can also provide recommendations.
Maximize Vertical Space: When packing your storage unit, make the most of vertical space by using shelving units or stackable containers. This allows you to use the unit's height efficiently, reducing the floor space needed. However, ensure that you can access items safely when stacked.
Here are some common storage unit sizes for reference:
- 5x5: Suitable for small items, boxes, and a few pieces of furniture like chairs or small tables.
- 5x10: Can accommodate the contents of a small one-bedroom apartment or dorm room, including furniture and boxes.
- 10x10: Typically suitable for the contents of a one-bedroom apartment or a small two-bedroom apartment, including furniture and appliances.
- 10x15: Suitable for the contents of a larger two-bedroom apartment or a small house, including furniture, appliances, and boxes.
- 10x20: Can hold the contents of a three-bedroom house, including larger furniture items, appliances, and boxes.
- 10x30: Suitable for the contents of a four- or five-bedroom house, including all furniture, appliances, and numerous boxes.
Remember that the specific dimensions of storage units can vary slightly between different facilities, so always double-check with the storage facility staff to ensure you're selecting the right size for your needs. It's better to have a little extra space than to find out later that your unit is too small.
