How to Make Self Storage Affordable for Your Lifestyle

Bigger doesn’t always mean better when it comes to storage. Larger units obviously cost more, but the trick is finding the size that perfectly suits the items you plan on storing. Instead of renting a unit with room to spare, take the time to assess how much space you’ll realistically need. You may be able to fit everything into a smaller, more affordable unit or even a storage locker.

One of the easiest ways to save money on self-storage is to make the most of the space you’re paying for. By packing and organizing your items efficiently, you can avoid renting a bigger, more expensive unit. Here are some ways to do it:

• Use vertical space. Instead of opting for a larger (and more expensive) unit, use vertical storage solutions like shelves and stackable bins to make the most of a smaller space. This works especially well if you’re storing boxes, seasonal decorations, or smaller household items. By making use of vertical space, you’ll be amazed at how much you can fit into a smaller — and cheaper — space.
• Disassemble furniture. Taking apart large furniture items like bed frames or tables can free up a lot of room. Be sure to store small pieces and screws in clearly labeled bags so you can easily reassemble everything later.
• Pack smart. Fill every inch of your boxes to prevent wasted space. Use existing items like pillows or blankets to cushion more fragile belongings instead of packing them separately. Nest smaller items into larger ones, especially if you’re storing large appliances like refrigerators and washing machines. Also, avoid using large boxes for everything — a mix of large and small boxes will be easier to stack and allow you to maximize your space more effectively.
• Label everything. Label boxes on all sides rather than just one, making things easy to find. This prevents you from having to dig through your storage later. Keep items you need to access more frequently closer to the front of the unit.
• Store heavy items on the bottom. Place heavier items or boxes at the bottom and lighter, more fragile items on top to avoid damage and make access easier.
• Create a walking path. Leave a small path down the center of your unit so you can access items in the back without unpacking everything.

If you don’t need a whole storage unit to yourself, consider splitting the cost with a friend or family member. By sharing, you can cut your expenses in half while still having access to all the storage space you need. 

If you decide to share a unit with someone, you’ll just need to agree on a system for sharing access and organizing the space so things don’t get mixed up. Set clear boundaries from the start and discuss how the space will be divided, how costs will be split and rules for accessing the unit. It may be a good idea to divide the space with shelves or marked sections, and clearly labeling or even color-coding all items can help avoid confusion.

A climate-controlled unit, while pricier, can be worth it if you’re storing temperature- and moisture-sensitive items like electronics, furniture, antiques and important documents. However, if your items can withstand heat, cold and humidity, opting for a standard unit without climate control can bring down your costs.

One of the easiest ways to keep your storage costs under control is to regularly assess what’s in your unit and clear out items you no longer need. It’s easy for a storage unit to become a “set it and forget it” solution, but regularly going through your items can prevent you from paying for space you aren’t actually utilizing.

Take time every few months to visit your unit and sort through your belongings. Are there things you haven’t used in a while or items you no longer need? Consider donating, selling or recycling these items to free up space. As you clear out unnecessary things, you might find that you no longer need the larger unit you initially rented and can downgrade to a smaller, less expensive one.

Some storage facilities offer extra perks like 24-hour access, on-site staff and storage unit organization services, but these conveniences can add to your monthly bill. If you don’t need round-the-clock access or other premium features, choosing a simpler facility could lower your costs without sacrificing safety or security.

Believe it or not, the time of year you rent a storage unit can impact how much you’ll pay. Just like hotels and airlines, self-storage facilities often experience peak and off-peak seasons that influence pricing. Demand for storage units tends to increase during the warmer months, particularly in spring and summer, when people are moving, decluttering or doing home renovations. Because of this, rental rates can be higher during these busy times.

If you can plan ahead, consider renting your unit during the off-peak season, typically late fall or winter. During these months, demand tends to drop and you may be able to find lower rates or special promotional discounts.

Where your storage facility is located can make a big difference in the price. Due to demand and real estate costs, units in busy urban areas or high-demand locations typically have a higher price tag. You might find some serious savings if you can store your items a little farther from the city or in less saturated areas.

Ready to find a storage facility near you? Head to our Storage Locator for a complete list of facilities, unit sizes and prices in your area.