The Ultimate Guide to Renting a Self-Storage Unit

No matter what stage of life you’re in, a storage unit can be a valuable resource. Here are some of the most common reasons you might benefit from temporary or long-term self storage.

• If you’re looking for a secure space to keep seasonal items, including boats, RVs, sports equipment, patio furniture and more.
• If you’re a college student looking to keep your belongings in a unit when you’re home for the summer or studying abroad.
• If you’re a new parent who is clearing out space for a nursery and could benefit from stowing excess items in one easily accessible location before your baby is born. Alternatively, storage units can be helpful if you want to keep toys, baby clothes, cribs, carriers and other items safely tucked away until you welcome your next child into your home.
• If you’re a retiree who may benefit from putting some of your treasured items in a unit as you prepare to downsize your home.
• If you’re a hobbyist looking for a space to store your favorite crafting supplies. 
• If you’re a small business owner who needs business storage to keep extra office chairs, desks, supplies or even inventory as you search for a bigger office space or prepare to hire new employees. 
• If you’re in the process of redesigning or renovating your home.
• If you need more space in your house but don’t want to part with family heirlooms and other items that have sentimental value.

Renting a storage unit is not a one-size-fits-all project. Instead, you can easily find one that meets all of your needs. Here is a list of the types of storage units you can consider. 

• Indoor units with climate control are ideal for storing all your belongings, including items that need to be protected from humidity, heat and cold. Depending on the size of the unit, you can store several boxes’ worth of items, the contents of a multi-room house, a vehicle, a boat and more. 
• Outdoor covered units are great for people who want to protect their vehicles — including collectible cars; low-speed vehicles (like scooters and golf carts); boats; and RVs and campers from rain and other outdoor elements. 
• Outdoor uncovered units are best for boats, RVs and short-term vehicle storage, or for individuals who aren’t worried about exposure to the elements.
• Lockers are a great option if you need to store documents, family heirlooms or other small items. 
• Wine storage is the go-to option if you’re looking to keep bottles of your favorite wines safely stored at the proper temperature. 
• Business storage is an ideal way to store office furniture and other belongings so you can free up space in your office. If you’re looking for an office that’s close to your storage unit, some facilities also offer professional office space that’s perfect for small teams, client/partner/investor meetings and more.

One of the perks of renting a storage unit is that you get to decide exactly how much space you need, and then choose the perfect-sized unit. If you’re wondering what size storage is right for you, you can keep these helpful guidelines in mind. 

Small units

Small units come in two sizes: 5’ x 5’ or 5’ x 10’. 5’ x 5’ units generally fit the contents of a hall closet or half bathroom, while 5’ x 10’ units can accommodate the contents of a dorm room, large walk-in closet or studio apartment.

Medium units

Medium units come in three sizes: 5’ x 15’, 10’ x 10’ and 10’ x 15’. 5’ x 15’ is like a large walk-in closet, and is perfect for one-bedroom apartments and large patio furniture, while 10’ x 10’ is like the size of a small bedroom and 10’ x 15’ is like the size of a small office. (Compact cars may fit in a 10’ x 15’ unit.)

Large units

Large units come in three sizes: 10’ x 20’, 10’ x 25’ and 10’ x 30’. 10’ x 20’ units are like large bedrooms — perfect for 1-2-bedroom apartments, large appliances, canoes and cars — while 10’ x 25’ and 10’ x 30’ units are like the size of a one-car garage and extra-long one-car garage, respectively. Large units are great for low-speed vehicles, cars, large furniture or a mix of items.

Before renting a unit, it’s important to ask yourself the following four questions:

1. What are you planning on storing?
2. How much access will you need to your stored item(s)? Do you need to open your unit late at night or early in the morning, frequently or only occasionally, etc.?
3. How much space do you need for the items you want to store?
4. How long do you need to store your item(s)? 

Based on your answers, you can determine whether you need an indoor or outdoor unit, and whether your unit needs to be climate-controlled or simply air-cooled. You can then assess what size unit is best for your needs and whether the facilities closest to you offer the amenities you desire. 

Some self-storage facilities don’t require you to commit to an entire year-long lease. At SmartStop, for example, you can enroll in a flexible month-to-month contract — meaning that you can store your items for as long as you like, without penalties.

For more things to keep in mind before you rent a unit, explore our blog: Looking for Storage? 10 Things to Keep in Mind Before You Rent a Unit

Renting a storage unit is the smarter way to keep your belongings safe and organized so you can create room in your home for the things that matter. Here are some additional resources that may help you on your journey:

• One of the best parts of renting your own storage unit is that you can organize things in a way that is easily accessible at a moment’s notice. Learn how to best organize your storage unit and other tips.
• Living in a small space can make it difficult to keep all your belongings out of sight. Learn how to maximize space in a small home after you’ve off-loaded unused or seasonal items into a storage unit.
• Selling items you no longer need? Whether it’s a sofa or bulky appliances, learn the ins and outs of selling things on Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace and other platforms.
• About to move into a new home? Learn how to make moving less stressful — especially if you’re moving across the country.
• If you’re redesigning your home and need inspiration, explore cottagecore elements, biophilic principles and other home design trends you can incorporate into your space.

For additional inspiration and information on all things related to storage, organization, home improvement and more, check out our blog.