A storage unit offers a convenient and secure way to keep your possessions safe while freeing up room in your home. Most facilities offer both short- and long-term rentals, with various unit sizes and services to fit your needs.

If you’re renting a storage unit for the first time, here’s some useful information to help you get started and ensure a smooth experience.

What Are the Two Types of Storage?

Storage options generally fall into two main categories: self-storage and full-service storage.

• Self-storage means you handle everything yourself. You transport your items to the facility, enter through a secure gate, and drive to your designated unit. Once there, it’s your responsibility to load and unload your belongings. If you’re storing a large number of items or heavy furniture, you can hire a professional moving company to assist with transporting and organizing your self-storage unit.
• Full-service storage, on the other hand, works more like a valet service. The company picks up your items, delivers them to the storage facility, and can return them upon request. Many full-service providers also catalog and photograph your belongings, keeping an updated inventory so you always know what’s in storage.

What Storage Unit Size Should I Rent?

Most storage facilities offer a range of unit sizes to fit different needs. Here are the five most common storage unit sizes and what they’re typically used for:

• 5 x 5 ft – Ideal for small items such as boxes, seasonal décor, sports equipment, or a few pieces of furniture. Think of it as a small walk-in closet.
• 5 x 10 ft – Great for the contents of a studio or small one-bedroom apartment, including a mattress set, small furniture, and several boxes.
• 10 x 10 ft – A versatile mid-size unit that fits the contents of a one-bedroom apartment or small home: larger furniture, appliances, and numerous boxes.
• 10 x 15 ft – Suitable for storing items from a two-bedroom apartment or small house. It can accommodate larger furniture sets, appliances, and even motorcycles.
• 10 x 20 ft – Comparable to a one-car garage, this unit fits the contents of a full house or a vehicle, along with boxes, tools, and other large items.

Some facilities also offer larger units for oversized assets such as commercial equipment or vehicles. Additionally, outdoor storage options are available for RVs, boats, and cars that can’t be parked on your property.

Before renting, take inventory of what you plan to store and estimate how much space you’ll need to keep everything safe and organized.

If you’re using a full-service storage company, unit sizes and configurations may differ—so it’s best to contact them directly to confirm availability.

How Long Can I Rent a Storage Unit?

Unless a company has specific terms or limits on the rental agreement, you can keep a storage unit for as long as you need it.

Your storage unit becomes like a new apartment. You can continue to use it as long as you’re paying the monthly, quarterly, or annual rental costs. If you fall behind on payments, the facility usually puts language into the lease that says they can claim whatever is left behind to auction off to cover your costs.

Some storage companies have a minimum time agreement that requires you to use the unit for at least three months.

If you plan to cancel your agreement, you’ll need to let the company know to avoid paying another monthly rental cost by a specific date.

What Features Do I Need for My Storage Unit?

Some storage units are a no-frills investment. You pull up to the locking door, open it, load or unload your stuff, and close it again.

Others provide numerous features that help to keep your belongings safe. That might include climate-control benefits, 24-hour accessibility, video monitoring, and in-person surveillance.

When you look at these features, you’ll want to start asking yourself some questions to see if the price is worth what you get.

• How well-lit is the facility? An in-person surveillance or security camera benefit isn’t worth much if no one can see what is happening at night.
• Are the locks in good condition? If you can slide a credit card between the door and the jamb to spring the lock, are you getting a secure storage unit to use?
• Does the facility have any authentic online reviews? Storage units that deliver high-quality services and customer support typically generate above-average reviews. Those that skate by doing the bare minimum won’t get the same levels of public enthusiasm.

Do I Need a Climate-Controlled Storage Unit?

A climate-controlled storage unit is a sensible investment if you plan to store furniture or clothing. From paper products to upholstery, anything with organic materials benefits from this resource. In addition, you’ll prevent mold, mildew, and other problems that can develop when humidity or temperature extremes exist.

For everything else, an outdoor storage unit might be suitable.

Once you’ve settled on what you need, you’ll be able to speak to the storage facility with confidence because you know what you want!