Did you know that one in every four households doesn’t have enough space to park a car in their garage?
Regardless of whether you’re moving to a new home, downsizing, or simply needing some extra space for your belongings, choosing the right storage unit can make all the difference.
With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you navigate the process of finding the perfect storage unit for your needs.
Keep reading if you want to find out more about the different kinds of storage units.
Know What Your Intentions Are
Different types of storage units have varying functions and features. Knowing what you need from your unit will help you find the right one for your specific needs.
Here are some common types of storage unit functions.
Short-Term Storage
This type of storage unit is ideal for people who need to store their belongings for a brief period of time. You might need a short-term storage unit if you are moving homes or in the middle of home renovations.
Short-term storage units tend to have flexible rental terms.
Long-Term Storage
If you need to store your belongings for an extended period of time, you should consider long-term storage. This is a great choice for those who need to store their belongings for months or even years.
Long-term storage units often have climate-controlled options for protecting your belongings from damage. These types of units also tend to be more cost-effective than short-term storage units.
Business Storage
Business storage units are designed for commercial use. This might include storing inventory, equipment, or documents. Business storage benefits often include 24/7 access to your unit.
It is also common for business storage units to have climate control options.
Vehicle Storage
If you need to store a car, boat, or RV, a vehicle storage unit may be the perfect solution. Vehicle storage benefits may include covered or uncovered storage options, high-security features, and access to electricity for charging.
Create an Inventory
One of the main benefits of creating an inventory is that it allows you to identify the amount of space you need. This can help you avoid renting a unit that is too small or too large for your belongings.
Also, a preliminary inventory can help you keep track of your items. You’ll have peace of mind in knowing that you haven’t forgotten anything when it’s time to retrieve them from storage.
To create an inventory, start by sorting your items into categories, such as furniture, clothing, and electronics. Then, make a list of each item in each category, along with its dimensions and any special considerations.
It’s also a good idea to take photos of your items, especially if they are valuable or have sentimental value.
To streamline the process, consider using a spreadsheet or inventory management app. This will make it easier for you to add or remove items as needed.
Measure Storage Unit Sizes
Taking the time to measure storage unit sizes is important because it can help you avoid common storage mistakes and make the most of your storage space.
Large storage units may seem like a great option for storing all of your belongings. But if you don’t measure the space properly, you could end up renting a unit that is too small or too large for your needs.
By measuring the size of storage units, it will become easier for you to determine if your items will fit comfortably in the unit.
You will also know whether there will be enough room for you to move around and access your belongings.
Measuring the storage unit size can also help you save money. If you rent a unit that is too large, you may end up paying for space that you don’t need.
On the other hand, if you rent a unit that is too small, you might need to pay extra fees for added space.
Consider Choosing a Larger Unit
Choosing a larger unit provides you with more space for your belongings and can prevent the need to rent a second unit or incur additional fees for exceeding the unit’s capacity.
A larger unit also provides you with flexibility and room to grow. If you plan on adding more items to your storage unit in the future, choosing a larger unit can save you money in the long run.
You can also organize your items more easily in a larger unit. This means that you will have easy access to your belongings.
But it’s important to keep in mind that choosing a larger unit may come with a higher cost.
You may end up paying for more space than you need. This can impact your budget.
Familiarize Yourself With Different Storage Unit Sizes
When choosing a storage unit size, it’s important to consider the size and type of items you plan to store, as well as how often you will need to access them.
A smaller unit may be sufficient for storing seasonal items or documents, while a larger unit may be necessary for storing furniture or vehicles.
It’s also important to consider special features that you might need that might impact the type and size of storage unit you need.
Rent a Storage Unit Today
There are many great reasons why you should consider renting a storage unit. But it is important to know how to choose the right one for your needs.
Start by figuring out what your intentions are. You will then need to create an inventory and measure the size of the storage unit that you’re thinking about renting.
Are you ready to start renting a storage unit? If so, we can help you. Don’t hesitate to contact us to get started today!