Storage facilities can be a great way for individuals and families to organize their most valued possessions and declutter their living space. Yet finding the best storage for your stuff can take a little research — security features, climate control and accessibility are all things you’ll need to factor in.
Take a look at our best tips for finding your perfect storage solution.
Get Specific About What Your Storing
Because storage units come in a variety of sizes, it’s important to have an accurate idea of what items you’ll be storing. Making a list of said items is an easy way to get started in the planning process. Be sure to think about your future storage demands and if you’ll be adding more to the unit in the coming months so you plan for enough space. Also, be sure to look into storage companies that offer a wide range of storage unit sizes to fit your exact needs.
Size of Typical Storage Units
Small: These units work for storing boxes, a few pieces of furniture and maybe a bike or some lawn equipment. 5 x 5 or 5 x 10.
Medium: These units are great if you’re looking to store belongings from a one-bedroom apartment. 5 x 15 or 10 x 10.
Large: These units are ideal for storing contents from a house or multi-bedroom apartment including appliances and larger furniture items. 10 x 15 or 10 x 20 or 10 x 30.
Extra Large: Great storage solution for business and commercial customers. 20 x 20.
Vehicle: Indoor and outdoor storage for vehicles, boats, trailers and recreation rides.
Make sure you do your research, especially if you’re in need of extra-large storage or vehicle storage, as not every provider has these exact offerings.
Do You Need a Climate-Controlled Unit?
The answer depends on the items you’re interested in storing and the climate where your unit is located. Here’s a quick list of items that require a climate-controlled space:
- Antiques, especially wood furniture
- Musical instruments
- Mattresses
- Books and magazines
- Electronics
- Important documents
- Upholstered furniture
- Vinyl records
- Wine
But climate control doesn’t just mean keeping things at a comfortable temperature, if you live in a hot and humid area such as Austin, you may also need a company that offers customized storage units with humidity control. Humidity-controlled units can take up to as much as 55 percent of the moisture out of the air and stop mildew growth, metal rust and paper rot from destroying your treasured belongings.
Length of Time You’ll Be Storing Items
Finally, you’ll want at least a general idea of how long you plan to use your storage unit. Those with a smaller length of time in mind can pack things fairly close together since they won’t be accessing their stuff as often. However, a customer with a longer time frame need to think about ease of access, walkway creation to be able to easily get to items and ensuring enough space for ventilation.
When looking for the best storage facility, it’s key to find a company akin to an honest and dependable landlord. It’s also important to keep in mind that self-storage units come in a variety of sizes and prices, but that doesn’t always mean you should go with the smallest unit just because it’s the cheapest option. Take a good long look at the items you plan on storing and figure out the best size space so you can find the perfect storage unit that fits your budget and saves your sanity.
