Self storage is an affordable storage option that provides commercials and/or residentials for temporary short term or long term storage. Basically, self storage units are rented on a monthly basis. Whether you want to store furniture items or documents, you can choose between large or small storage units.

To help the customers, nowadays many self-storage companies are processing quick bookings online for convenience.

• A 5x10 is large enough to fit a small walk-in closet.
• The 5×15 unit is similar to a walk-in closet.
• The 10x10 storage unit is perhaps the most popular.
• In a 10x15 unit, you can fit three full bedrooms.
• The 10x30 unit can fit up to a five bedroom house.

Before choosing a unit size, you should determine the amount of space your belongings will require. It's always best to go one size up for future benefits, in case you may need some extra space. Else you will always have the option to upgrade or downgrade the unit size.

Listed below are the most common sizes of available storage units to compare and choose.

• An average closet size is 5x5. Several medium-sized boxes and a small mattress set can fit in a 5x5 storage unit.
• A 5x10 is large enough to fit a small walk-in closet. An entire medium-sized bedroom can fit inside.
• The 5×15 unit is similar to a walk-in closet. The box has enough room to fit an entire single bedroom.
• The 10x10 storage unit is perhaps the most popular. A 10x10 unit can fit the furnishings of a family room, or two bedrooms.
• In a 10x15 unit, you can fit three full bedrooms' worth of furniture.
• An enclosed 10x20 garage can accommodate all the furniture of a multi-bedroom house.
• In addition to being larger than a standard storage unit, the 10x30 unit can fit the furnishings of a three to five bedroom house comfortably.

Most of the storage companies display their unit sizes and calculators on their website to help you determine a perfect size unit.

In case if your requirement doesn’t fit into any of the above, then you can even share the same unit with someone else. However, both parties must sign the joint lease agreement with the storage company and agree to the rental terms and conditions.

Different storage units will have different sizes, licence agreements, and purposes.

• The term "outdoor storage" refers to units outside and used for storing cars, bikes, motorcycles, tractors, boats, RVs, etc. There is usually no climate control in these facilities.
• “Drive-up” storage units resemble garages. Dropping off items is as easy as driving up to the unit's entrance, rolling up the door, and driving away.
• “Climate-controlled indoor storage” facilities are sometimes located inside buildings.
• Business files, inventory, and other operational equipment can be stored in “commercial storage” units.
• Wine or collectibles are some examples of items that can be stored in “specialised facilities”.

Depending on the type, size of the storage unit, location and availability, the monthly fee can range between $100 and $300. Although the climate controlled storage units would cost you a little higher.

Generally, self-storage companies offer state of the art facilities and amenities like 24 x 7 CCTV surveillance, gated access, dedicated units, alarms, pick up and drop off services, and more…

Note: If you fail to pay the rent for an extended period of time, then the storage company may even auction your content to cover-up the unpaid rental amount.

The factors that affect the price of storage units are:

• The larger the unit, the more expensive it is.
• If storage units are scarce, prices rise.
• Depending on how long you want to store your stuff.
• The cost is directly proportional to the unit size.

Storage unit's costs are also affected by:

• Indoors or outdoors.
• Drive-up access is available or not.
• Depending on the unit's location, expect a price surge in metropolitan areas but a more reasonable price in less crowded areas like suburbs.
• The need for climate control.

Before committing and renting a storage unit, there are a few factors to consider, including the facility's security measures and their policy on security breaches.

• Ensure that your unit is adequately secured. It is recommended to have video surveillance, locks, security gates or doors, and in-person surveillance in place.
• Your storage units should also be anytime accessible 24 x 7.
• To get the best value for your money, pay attention to any variations in the contract. Don't forget to ask for online discounts and specials.
• If you need to access the storage unit frequently, choose a storage facility closer to a major metropolitan area which is more convenient.
• Buyers' purchasing decisions are increasingly influenced by reviews. A client's perception matters, both now and in the past. It's a red flag if there's a robbery report, grumpy staff, or a one-star review at a storage facility.

You can save a lot of space your items take up in storage by the way you pack them. A smaller size storage unit may be required if you pack items efficiently.

Here are some best tips for saving the space when renting a storage unit:

• To store bulky furniture in less space, disassemble tables, chairs, and beds.
• Fill the space to the top with various items by stacking stacked bins.
• You may take along your own shelving.
• Leave an aisle for easy access.
• Fill your wardrobe and dresser with smaller items.

Packing and labelling is one of the important factors for the safety of both customers and the self-storage company. First, make sure you pack your items in clean and dry condition. Secondly, use enough packing material. Lastly, label your boxes properly and maintain an inventory and checklist.

Furniture, clothing, and sensitive items however, need climate controlled storage to protect your valuable possessions from extreme cold, heat, and humidity, mildew and mould growth.

Despite the higher price they are still worth it since climate controlled units can protect your belongings from sudden temperature changes that can damage them.

A storage unit is a container used to store personal, business, and household items such as clothing, furniture, home appliances, or special items like piano, pool table, vehicles etc. Neither are they designed for anything dangerous, toxic, or flammables nor you can rent them to store anything that is not permissible by the respective governing body.

However, it is always a good idea to make sure there are no restrictions or limitations on what can be stored with the facility beforehand.

You can check with the self storage company for the complete list of prohibited items. However, here is the short list of items that are usually prohibited from being stored.

• Hazardous materials
• Weapons and Illegal items
• Perishable items
• Explosives or flammable
• Material that poses a risk
• Objects or foods that attract insects
• Items with a scent or moisture etc.

When you no longer have a store room for extra items, and you don't want to get rid of them, then here comes renting a storage unit to make your life easier.

There are more benefits to consider about renting a storage unit than to leave things with a friend or relatives for the following reasons:

• The security of your items
• It gives you more freedom
• You can store for as long as you want
• Your items are usually insured as an additional service at most storage facilities
• Storage-units are cleaned or maintained.

No, generally it is not included in monthly rentals, but you can buy insurance with some additional charges. Make sure to check or confirm with the company you are considering before signing the agreement contract.

However, if you find any damage or loss of items in your unit, first take photo evidence and then inform the facility manager immediately to check with company policy or claim for insurance.

There are three (3) options when to move your stuff from or to a storage facility:

1. Either you hire a professional moving company.
2. Self move (Do-it-yourself) by renting a moving truck/van.
3. Self -storage company itself would provide pickup and delivery service.

However, in any case you need to either pack yourself or hire the packing professionals. In any case, remember to label the boxes properly.

Note: Normally you can access your rented unit anytime, but need to give prior notice to arrange a pickup or delivery for your belongings.