Storage units can be a great solution for people who are needing a place to store their belongings during a move or a home renovation. But if it is your first time renting a storage unit, it can be a little overwhelming. Before you make the decision to rent a storage space, here are a few things to consider. From what to look for in a storage unit to the various sizing options, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know before signing on the dotted line and renting a storage unit.
Things to Consider Before Renting a Storage Unit
1. What Should I Look For In a Storage Unit?
Whenever you are comparing different storage facilities and their amenities, make sure to consider these key factors:
- Degree of Accessibility
- Number of Locks
- In-Person Surveillance
- Pricing and Contracts
- Availability
- Overall Safety and Security of the Facility
- Climate Control
- Video Monitoring
- Sizes Offered
- Online Reviews
- Location
2. The Contract
One factor of renting a storage unit that is essential for you to understand is the contract. Make sure that you know how long the contract is for and if there are any penalties for canceling early. You will also want to pay attention to any price increases that may occur during the course of your rental.
Some things to consider when reviewing your contract:
- How long is the contract for?
- Does the company have penalties for canceling early?
- How does the cancellation process work?
- Does the contract renew automatically?
- Are there any price increases during the course of the rental?
3. What Can I Store in My Storage Unit?
Most items can be stored in a storage unit. As long as it isn’t against the company’s rules and it fits inside, it’s fine. Most often, storage units are used to keep valuables from your home and vehicles. The list below includes, but is not limited to, items that can be kept in storage:
- Antiques / Collectibles
- Appliances (Large & Small)
- Boxes
- Furniture
- Mattresses
- Musical Instruments
- Vehicles – Wine
- Seasonal Decorations
- Artwork
- Books
- Electronics
- Home Decor
- Photographs
- Clothing
- Wine
- Sports Equipment
Items that cannot be stored in your storage unit include the following:
- Firearms
- Fur Clothing
- Living (& Dead) Items
- Tires – Unregistered/Uninsured Vehicles
- Wet Items – Priceless/Irreplaceable Items
- Stolen and Illegal Goods
- Food
- Hazardous Materials
- Money
4. Do I Need a Climate-Controlled Storage Unit?
While all of your personal belongings can benefit from a climate-controlled storage unit, it is especially important for items like furniture and clothing to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Climate-controlled storage units help to protect your personal belongings from extreme cold, heat, and humidity.
On average, climate-controlled storage units cost more than standard storage; however, the extra cost is worthwhile to ensure that your items are not damaged by temperatures and humidity.
A few items that we recommend placing in climate-controlled storage include the following:
- Artwork
- Clothing
- Household Appliances
- Photos
- Antiques
- Electronics
- Musical Instruments
- Wooden and leather furniture
5. What Do I Need To Rent a Storage Unit?
Before you are able to rent a storage unit, be prepared to show some form of identification. You must provide a valid, government-issued form of ID to rent your unit. The options include:
- Driver’s License
- Passport
- State ID
- Military ID
6. Do You Need Insurance For a Storage Unit?
When renting a storage you, it is recommended that you ask your storage company if they offer any insurance options. Then you can determine whether or not you need insurance coverage for your belongings.
Insurance is essential for many reasons. Not only does it protect your belongings in case of damage or theft, but it also protects you if someone is injured while on the property.
7. When Can I Access My Storage Unit?
Most storage units are typically only open during business hours. However, many have 24-hour access. Make sure to check with your local self-storage facility for additional details, including gate hours and office hours.
8. Is It Legal For Me to Work From My Storage Unit?
As tempting as it may be to use your storage unit as your make-shift office or home, it is illegal and can violate your lease contract. You may only use your storage unit to store business-related items. However, there are many storage facilities that are equipped with on-site business centers where clients can work, print documents, and mail packages.
9. What Size Storage Unit Should I Rent?
Finding the best storage unit size for you and your belongings is very important, but sometimes it can be a hard decision to make. Use the size guide below to compare different options and to see what size unit will best fit your needs:
5’ x 5’ unit: While these units may be the smallest that the majority of facilities offer, they are extremely popular. Roughly the size of a small closet, these units are ideal for storing items such as office file boxes, chairs, dresser drawers, boxes of clothes, tall furnishings such as floor lamps, and more.
5’ x 10’ unit: This unit is around the size of a small closet. It is great for storing items such as a couple pieces of large furniture, up to 15 boxes, a lawn mower, bicycle, or a motorcycle.
5’ x 15’ unit: This unit is ideal for storing belongings you may have in a one-bedroom apartment, not including the larger appliances.
10’ x 10’ unit: Roughly the size of a small bedroom, this storage unit can accommodate slightly larger items, such as a bed, dining room table, sofa, or several rooms’ worth of boxes.
10’ x 15’ unit: This storage unit offers 150 square feet of space, the size of a bedroom. This unit is large enough to fit larger furniture, several rooms’ worth of boxes, a piano, a golf cart, or even jet skis.
10’ x 20’ unit: This storage unit is roughly the size of a master bedroom, giving you 200 square feet of storage space. This unit is ideal for storing belongings you may have in a 2- or 3- bedroom apartment or home. It is also large enough to accommodate a compact car or some mid-size vehicles.
10’ x 30’ unit: If you are needing a lot of storage space, this is a great option for you. It is roughly the size of a 2- car garage. You can store furnishings you may have from a 2- or 3- bedroom home, as well as most full-size vehicles.
Contact USA Self Storage Today
Locally owned and family-managed, USA Self Storage is the perfect solution for you! We have locations all over central Arkansas and video surveillance to keep your belongings safe. Here at USA Self Storage, our contracts are flexible, meaning you can pay month-to-month. Contact us at 501-701-0707 to get your storage unit set up today!