Are you in need of a storage unit this winter? You’re not alone. The annual revenue of self-storage is $39 billion. There are many different options, so choosing storage units for your needs can present a challenge.

Don’t worry, though, we’ve got you covered!

In this article, we’ll show you how to choose the right storage unit for you so you can avoid paying too much or not having enough room. Read on to learn the top tips you need to know before you choose your unit.

1. Location Location Location!

When choosing storage units, you’ll need to decide on a storage unit location first. How far is it from your home? If it’s further out, will you need to go there often?

If you’re only needing it for a short time, the distance might not be a deal-breaker, but for long-term storage, it should be a factor.

2. Determining Size

The size of storage units can range from small 5×5 units to large 10×30 units.

A 5×5 is about the size of a small walk-in closet. If you’re just looking to store some kid’s toys, boxes, personal items, and small furniture, this could be the right choice.

A 5×10 is great for a box spring and mattress, sofa, chairs, and small amounts of furniture. It’s important to note that not all of these will fit at once.

Next up is a 10×10 unit. This is great for a one-bedroom apartment with furniture and appliances.

A 10×15 is great for 3 bedrooms and furniture. If you’re moving or going to move to a new home, this is a good option. You can also store a scooter, motorcycle, or compact vehicle instead.

10×20 storage units are great for a home with multiple bedrooms. You can also place many boxes and furniture in them. It’s also great for business equipment or supplies.

You can store a car in this size unit as well.

A 10×20 is a great option when you’re building or moving into a new home.

A 10×30 is the largest option. If your home is on the larger size, it can fit into this size unit. You can fit a car, and have room for some boxes.

If you have a business with larger equipment, it can fit. It’s great for storing your entire home.

Other Factors

Consider adding shelves inside the storage unit to maximize space. You can also consider having dressers and sofas on their side to make more room for other items.

Also, keep in mind that furniture and mattresses come in different sizes. While a unit might fit a full-sized mattress, it might not fit your king-sized mattress.

3. Climate Controlled, Outside, or Indoor?

Outdoor storage is great if you’re looking to store a car. If you’re planning to store your items outside in the wintertime, you don’t have to worry about mold as much as in the summer.

Whether outdoors or indoors, you’ll want quality storage insurance to protect your items in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Outdoor

If you go this route, ensure that you keep your personal items in totes to protect them from the elements whether choosing outdoor or indoor storage.

Outdoor storage is a great way to save some cash, and obtain a larger unit. They’re also easy to access since you can drive right up to them.

It can be harder with the weather though. Your items are more exposed to snow, rain, sun, and wind.

If you decide to go with an outdoor unit, ask the storage associate about their alarm system, weather-resistance for the units, and lighting.

Climate-Controlled

To protect personal items and furniture from the elements of the outdoors, choose a climate-controlled unit. Climate-controlled units will be located inside.

A climate-controlled unit will be controlled as far as humidity and temperature. If you have important paperwork or antiques, you’ll want to preserve them.

Keep in mind that climate-controlled storage unit fees will be higher than an outdoor unit.

4. Hours of Operation

When you’re checking out different unit sizes, you’ll want to ask the storage associate about the hours of operation you can access your unit. Some facilities offer 24-hour access, while others might close at 10:00 pm.

Also, find out what days you’ll have access to your unit. Determine what works best for you. If you don’t see yourself needing 24-hour coverage, then it’s not a top concern to have that access.

5. Reviews and Budgeting

Before choosing a unit, you should determine your storage unit budget, and stick to it. You should also check out reviews online of each facility, and see if there’s a common theme of complaints or positives.

Anything that you’re not sure of, make sure to ask your storage associate about it.

Storage Tips

Before placing your items in your storage unit, make sure that nothing is damp or dirty. A damp item can equate to a moldy item, whether it’s climate-controlled or not.

You’ll want to avoid moving your items on a snowy or rainy day.

Before placing your items in storage, make sure to take an inventory of everything. Take pictures of all of the serial numbers, and pictures of items for insurance purposes, in case something goes missing.

Before choosing what to pack, make sure you condense as much as possible. While that toy that Suzie made when she was 6 is adorable, is it worth it to keep every item, and then have to pay for a more expensive unit?

A Guide on Choosing Storage Units

Now that you’ve explored a guide on choosing storage units, you should have an easier time picking out the perfect unit.

Are you ready to secure your items in case of a natural disaster or burglary? Contact us today, and we’ll help you pick the right plan for you at wholesale prices!