StorageHow to Find the Best Self Storage Unit for Your Needs
There are about 48,500 storage units in the United States, which means that about one in ten households rents a self-storage unit. The numbers have grown steadily and show no signs of losing momentum. Between 2000 and 2005 alone, the number of units increased by 3,000 per year. This sharp rise in construction is meeting the growing demand for more storage space. So what's the buzz about?
Why are More Americans than Ever Renting Storage Units?
This kind of solution is not just useful for a small business or downsizing, but it is also a vital asset for individuals going through transitional phases in life. Also, the option to store excess seasonal gear, furniture, and clothing gives people the freedom to make moves they couldn't make if they felt burdened by possessions. If you get a dream job across the country but only have a month to relocate, the cost of moving your furniture may not be worth the expense. Storing your furniture in a unit that you can sell or give away at your own time can take the stress off yourself. It also buys you as much time as you want to figure out what to do with your belongings.
Can you Benefit from Renting a Storage Unit?
The answer depends on your unique situation and needs. But one thing's for sure, you don't want to rent a bad storage unit. Why pay extra every month for features your storage items may not require? By asking yourself a few key questions, you can find the best self-storage unit for your needs.
Why Do you Need a Storage Unit?
Before you search for a storage unit, you must find out "why" you need one. You may need a storage unit for any reason under the sun. If you need to store extra items that your home or business cannot hold comfortably, that is reason enough. This can be for a temporary need, such as storing a large shipment of goods that your warehouse can't handle, or a sectional that you could not pass up at an estate sale. Great deals don't always come when you have an open warehouse or a living room to handle the goods. Being able to keep items in a unit gives you some time to figure out your next steps regarding your possessions.
Needing a Storage Unit While Selling Your Home
If you're in the process of selling your home, you may find a temporary storage unit useful. Many homeowners like to tuck away clutter in storage units while showing a home that they have listed for sale. By having fewer items in the house, the home looks bigger and attracts more buyers. It's also a great place to store seasonal gear like ice skates, skis, tents, inflatable water slides, bounce houses, and other items that would occupy the attic, crawl space, or garage.
Needing a Storage Unit While Undergoing Major Life Transitions
People undergoing major life transitions benefit from storage units too. Maybe you need to get out of your apartment ASAP because your roommate is not great to live with. You can safely store your belongings in a storage unit until you find a better living situation, but not feel the pressure to make rushed decisions in your next arrangement. Graduates who are staying at home for a season while job hunting do not need to bring all their dorm furniture back home if they don't know where their job hunt will lead them. When adventure calls and when the unexpected strikes, storage units have your back.
What do you Plan to Store in it?
Storage units come in all sizes and levels of luxury. Prices range to offer clients everything from a small, inexpensive unit to a large, climate-controlled unit that can accommodate many large items. Before you choose a unit, figure out what you need to store. It would not benefit you to spend $200 on a large unit when you only need to store a futon and a television. In this case, an economic unit would suffice, especially when the contents don't need climate control to stay in good condition. If the unit is for business use, verify if the unit can handle all your shelves, desks, chairs, and electronic equipment. Choose a unit that is just big enough and not excessive to use your budget most effectively.
Do you Need Climate Control Storage?
Whether you need climate control storage depends on what you plan to put in the unit. Climate control costs a little extra but everything in the unit will be kept in a comfortable temperature that is not too hot or too cold. This is especially important if you live in a place where extreme cold and hot are prevalent during different times of the year.
Sometimes you may luck out and need storage just during a short time during a mild season. However, if you have any items that would become damaged if left in an untreated unit, consider what you'd lose if you don't pay extra for this amenity. Air conditioner is a great dehumidifier too, so it is great at preventing a musty smell from developing. Depending on what your items require to stay in great shape, shop around for the best price and amenities.
What is the Most Popular Size Storage Unit?
A 10x10 is the most popular sized storage unit. Equivalent to storing a one bedroom apartment, which can include a bedroom set and some small boxes. You can also store a small car and a motorcycle in your storage unit. We just recommend that you measure your belongings first or use our online storage calculator before renting.
Additional Storage Unit Amenities to Look Out For
On a final note, you should also keep your eye out for extra benefits like surveillance cameras, automatic gates, and online bill pay. These amenities will give you peace of mind that your belongings are secure and that you can make changes to your account remotely.
We're Your Storage Solution!
Storage Rentals of America is your convenient self-storage solution. So come into our office or give our storage experts a call at 1-800-457-5678. Our call center is available 7 days a week and can help determine which storage unit size best fits your storage needs.
