Moving to a new home, downsizing your living space, or simply running out of room for your belongings? Storage units offer a practical solution for keeping your items safe and organized without cluttering your home. Whether you’re a homeowner looking to declutter or a business owner needing extra inventory space, understanding how storage units work can help you make the right choice for your needs.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about storage units, from choosing the right size to maximizing your storage space. You’ll discover the different types of storage facilities available, learn about security features to look for, and get practical tips for organizing your belongings efficiently.
What Are Storage Units and Why Use Them?
Storage units are rental spaces where individuals and businesses can store their belongings for short-term or long-term periods. These facilities provide a secure, convenient alternative to keeping items in your home, garage, or office when space becomes limited.
People use Fort Morgan storage for various reasons. Some need temporary space during a move or home renovation, while others require long-term storage for seasonal items like holiday decorations or winter clothing. College students often rent storage units during summer breaks, and small business owners use them to store inventory or documents.
The convenience of accessing your belongings whenever you need them makes storage units particularly appealing. Most facilities offer flexible rental terms, allowing you to rent space for as long or as short as necessary.
Types of Storage Units Available
Self-Storage Facilities
Self-storage facilities are the most common type of storage option. These facilities feature rows of individual units in various sizes, from small lockers to large garage-sized spaces. You receive a key or access code to enter your unit whenever you need to retrieve or store items.
These facilities typically offer both indoor and outdoor units. Indoor units provide better protection from weather elements, while outdoor units often cost less and offer easier access for loading and unloading large items.
Climate-Controlled Storage
Climate-controlled storage units maintain consistent temperature and humidity levels throughout the year. These units are ideal for storing sensitive items like electronics, artwork, musical instruments, photographs, and important documents that could be damaged by extreme temperatures or moisture.
While climate-controlled units cost more than standard units, they provide valuable protection for your most precious belongings. The investment is particularly worthwhile if you live in an area with extreme weather conditions or plan to store items for extended periods.
Portable Storage Containers
Portable storage containers offer a different approach to storage. The company delivers a container to your location, you fill it with your belongings, and they transport it to their storage facility. This option eliminates the need for multiple trips to a storage facility and can be particularly convenient during moves.
Some companies also offer the flexibility to keep the container on your property for easy access while you’re organizing or renovating your space.
Choosing the Right Storage Unit Size
Selecting the appropriate storage unit size is crucial for getting the best value for your money. Storage units are typically measured in square feet, and prices increase with size.
Small Units (5×5 to 5×10 feet)
Small storage units work well for storing boxes, small furniture pieces, seasonal clothing, or college dorm room items. A 5×5 unit can hold about one room’s worth of belongings, while a 5×10 unit accommodates items from a small one-bedroom apartment.
Medium Units (10×10 to 10×15 feet)
Medium-sized units can store furniture and boxes from a one to two-bedroom home. These units often accommodate appliances, mattresses, sofas, and dining room sets along with numerous boxes.
Large Units (10×20 feet and larger)
Large storage units can hold belongings from a three to four-bedroom home or serve as storage for vehicles, boats, or business inventory. These units provide enough space for major appliances, multiple furniture sets, and extensive collections.
Security Features to Look For
Security should be a top priority when choosing a storage facility. Look for facilities that offer multiple layers of protection for your belongings.
Access Control Systems
Modern storage facilities use electronic access control systems that require a unique code or key card to enter the premises. These systems track who enters and exits the facility and when, creating a detailed log of all activity.
Surveillance Cameras
Comprehensive video surveillance systems monitor all areas of the facility, including entrances, exits, and unit corridors. Look for facilities with 24-hour camera coverage and digital recording systems that store footage for extended periods.
On-Site Management
Facilities with on-site managers or staff provide an additional security layer. These personnel can monitor the property, assist customers, and respond quickly to any security concerns.
Individual Unit Locks
While most facilities require you to provide your own lock, some offer specialized locks designed for storage units. High-quality disc locks or cylinder locks provide better security than standard padlocks.
Preparing Items for Storage
Proper preparation helps ensure your belongings remain in good condition during storage. Taking time to prepare items correctly can prevent damage and make accessing stored items easier.
Cleaning and Maintenance
Clean all items thoroughly before storage. Dirt, food particles, and moisture can attract pests or cause deterioration over time. Appliances should be completely dry and clean, with all removable parts properly secured or separately packed.
Protective Packaging
Use appropriate packaging materials to protect your items. Wrap furniture in protective covers or sheets, use bubble wrap for fragile items, and consider plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes for long-term storage in areas with high humidity.
Documentation and Inventory
Create a detailed inventory of everything you store. Take photographs of valuable items and keep receipts or documentation in a separate location. This documentation proves invaluable for insurance purposes and helps you remember what you’ve stored.
Organizing Your Storage Unit Efficiently
Smart organization maximizes your storage space and makes accessing items much easier. A well-organized unit can save you time and frustration when you need to find specific items.
Create Aisles and Pathways
Leave narrow aisles between your stored items so you can access things stored in the back of the unit. This arrangement prevents the need to move everything when you need something stored deeper in the unit.
Use Vertical Space
Stack sturdy boxes and containers to make use of vertical space, but ensure heavier items stay on the bottom. Place lighter, less frequently used items on top and keep commonly needed items at eye level.
Label Everything Clearly
Label all boxes and containers with detailed descriptions of their contents. Use a consistent labeling system and consider creating a master list that corresponds to your labels.
Store Frequently Used Items Near the Front
Place items you’ll need regularly near the front of the unit for easy access. Seasonal items that you’ll only need once or twice per year can go toward the back.
Insurance and Protection Options
Protecting your stored belongings with appropriate insurance coverage provides peace of mind and financial protection against unexpected events.
Homeowners or Renters Insurance
Check with your insurance provider to determine if your existing homeowners or renters insurance covers items stored off-site. Some policies provide limited coverage for stored belongings, while others exclude off-site storage entirely.
Storage Facility Insurance
Many storage facilities offer insurance options specifically designed for stored items. These policies typically provide coverage for theft, damage, and natural disasters at reasonable rates.
Third-Party Insurance
Independent insurance companies offer specialized coverage for stored belongings. These policies often provide more comprehensive coverage than facility-offered insurance and may offer better rates for valuable items.
Making the Most of Your Storage Experience
Regular Maintenance Visits
Visit your storage unit periodically to check on your belongings and ensure everything remains in good condition. These visits also help you remember what you’ve stored and identify items you might no longer need.
Seasonal Rotation
If you store seasonal items, consider rotating them throughout the year. Move winter clothing to the back during summer months and bring summer items forward as the weather changes.
Decluttering Opportunities
Storage units provide excellent opportunities to declutter your belongings. As you pack items for storage, evaluate whether you truly need each item. Consider donating or selling things you haven’t used in years.
Your Next Steps to Smart Storage
Storage units offer valuable solutions for managing your belongings when space becomes limited. By choosing the right size unit, prioritizing security features, and organizing your belongings efficiently, you can make the most of your storage experience.
Start by assessing your storage needs and visiting local facilities to compare options. Look for facilities that offer the security features and amenities that matter most to you. Remember that the cheapest option isn’t always the best value if it doesn’t provide adequate protection for your belongings.
Take time to properly prepare and organize your items before moving them to storage. This preparation protects your belongings and makes your storage unit more functional and accessible. With the right approach, storage units can provide the extra space you need while keeping your belongings safe and organized.