Key Points
- 1 Climate controlled units protect your valuables against extreme heat and cold. Humidity is your enemy when it comes to storage – organic materials found in furniture and clothing are breeding grounds for mold and mildew.
- 2 Your monthly rate will depend on a number of factors, such as the unit’s size and the amenities offered.
- 3 If you know how long you’ll need to rent a unit, you may be able to negotiate a lower monthly rate.
- 4 Many storage facilities require you to have insurance before renting to you and do not assume responsibility for lost, stolen, or damaged items.
What is self-storage?
Self-storage businesses (also known as “public storage” or “mini storage”) rent storage space or “units” to customers at a third party location, usually at a monthly rate. The units typically come in one of several standardized sizes, all of which feature a rolling door. Units are secured by a built-in locking mechanism and/or a separate lock. Facilities are managed by a staff dedicated to maximizing your security and convenience.
Why Would I Need Self-Storage?
Moving
Moving to a new home or apartment is a huge undertaking, and even small moves involve hassles and lots of planning. Self-storage offers a convenient, secure solution to an otherwise tedious process.
Renovating or remodeling
Restorations or remodeling projects are valuable investments that enhance your enjoyment of your home. But where to put your stuff in the meantime? A self-storage unit can hold your furniture and other items while you wait for the work to be completed.
Downsizing
Relocating into a smaller home has seen a rise in popularity in recent years for a variety of reasons. But even after getting rid of what you don’t need, you’ll have some extra items. Keeping a storage unit will let you access those extra items when you need them.
College summers
Most college students look forward to summer, but not to the process of moving out of the dorm and carting everything home. Find a storage unit near campus and store things there for easy access when it’s time to go back to class.
Emergencies
Life is full of surprises – unfortunately, not all of them are pleasant. A natural disaster or a death in the family can create the need for a quick storage solution.
Other Services Commonly Confused with Self-Storage
Storage lockers
Need some space, but not too much? Storage lockers offer amenities like climate control, but because of their smaller size, cost a fraction of the price.
Storage sheds
Storage sheds are located on your own property and can be purchased in easy-to-assemble kits from your local home improvement store. While sheds can surely help you create more storage space, they tend to be pricey, and assembly can be a hassle.
How Can I Find Self-Storage Units Near Me?
Thankfully, the days of calling around or driving to find a storage facility are over – today, the best way to find cheap storage is through an online self-storage marketplaces. Simply type in your city or zip code into our site, and we’ll find the storage locations nearest to you, complete with details like price, size, amenities, and reviews from other renters. We also offer exclusive discounts, like first month’s rent free.
Storage Sizes
After using our handy search tool to find a nearby facility, you’ll need to figure out the right size and type of unit. It can be surprisingly hard to visualize the size you need – here’s a guide to most standard storage unit sizes.
| Storage Sizes | |
|---|---|
| 5 x 5 (25 sq ft.) | A 5×5 storage unit can accommodate the contents of a small closet, such as a few boxes and a small desk and a chair. This size is popular among college students. |
| 5 x 10 (50 sq ft.) | This size is popular among those who live in a small apartment. You should be able to fit a couch or bed. |
| 10 x 10 (100 sq ft.) | The most widely rented size, 10×10 units are about the size of a large bedroom and accommodate the contents of an average two-bedroom apartment. |
| 10 x 15 (150 sq ft.) | A 10×15 should fit the contents of a one-bedroom house, or possibly a small car or boat. (Cars and boats often have special requirements, so check with the facility first.) |
| 10 x 20 (200 sq ft.) | Need to store everything in your house? This is probably the size you’ll need. You might be able to fit a larger vehicle, such as a truck or an RV. (RVs often require special accommodation, so be sure to inquire at your facility.) |
| 10 x 30 (300 sq ft.) | 10x30s are harder to find and are typically only used for special types of storage, such as business storage, but it ultimately depends on your individual or family needs. |
Storage unit amenities
Found the right facility, and narrowed down the size? Great – let’s move on to amenities. Do you want to be able to run over to your unit anytime of the day or night? Do you live in an area with intense winters? We can help you determine what you need, and what you can skip.
Climate controlled storage
Climate controlled units protect your valuables against extreme heat and cold. Humidity is your enemy when it comes to storage – organic materials found in furniture and clothing are breeding grounds for mold and mildew. Consider opting for climate control, especially if your area gets very hot (like Texas) or very cold (like the East Coast).
24-hour access storage
If you want access to your stuff any time or day, look for a facility that is open 24/7. It’ll be a little pricier, but if this matters to you, it may be well worth it.
(Note: There is a difference between unit access (the actual access hours) and facility access (when the facility office is open). Keep this in mind when selecting a facility.)
Drive-up access storage
Drive-up access allows you to pull your vehicle right up to the unit in order to load and unload your items. Drive-up units are very convenient and affordable, but often lack certain amenities such as climate control.
If drive-up access isn’t important to you, you can consider a multi-floor facility, where you may have to go indoors and up an elevator to access your unit. It may be harder to move larger items, but it does offer stronger protection from theft and pests, and almost always features climate control.
Storage units with electricity
This means, for an extra fee, your unit will have electrical outlets. (Most do not.) Ask the facility whether the unit you’re getting has outlets included.
To view more details about these or other amenities offered by the facility you’re interested in, such as 24-hour video surveillance, on-site property managers, or keypad gate entry, you can check the “Features/Amenities” section of their business website.
Storage Unit Prices
Most facilities will charge you on a monthly basis, but you can always ask about other contract options.
What are the main factors that affect the price of a storage unit?
Your monthly rate will depend on a number of factors, such as the unit’s size and the amenities offered. The larger the unit, and the more amenities, the higher the monthly rate. Interior units, first floor units, and units near the elevator can also cost more. If you’re in a metropolitan area, you can expect to pay more as well.
A surprising factor affecting storage unit cost is the demand in the area. Less demand generally translates to lower prices. If occupancy is high, the price of the remaining units will go up.
What is the average price of a storage unit?
The average monthly rate for a unit is approximately $90, down 2.5% from 2017. The smallest units (like a 5×5) can go as low as $65/month, while the larger units (10×20) will run you upwards of $135 monthly. Prices can also vary by facility, so feel free to shop around using our search tools.
How much does it cost to rent a storage unit for a year?
If you multiply the average monthly rate of $90, the average annual cost will be just over $1,000, or $600-$700 per year for smaller units. Larger units rent for approximately $2,000 a year. However, most storage contracts are month-to-month, so what you pay long-term mostly depends on how long you’ll need it.
How can I guarantee I find the lowest price on self-storage?
Price-shopping and comparing different options is the best way to find affordable storage. If you know how long you’ll need to rent a unit, you may be able to negotiate a lower monthly rate. Not every facility negotiates, but they may be willing to throw in a few perks for free. Ask (nicely!) if they offer free boxes, storage locks, or discounts on moving truck rentals.
Can the storage facility raise my rent?
Yes. Rent increases based on market rates are common. If you’re worried about rent increases, go through the lease carefully with your storage facility and make sure you understand the policy and will be promptly notified of any increase.
Will there be any additional fees?
You will typically be charged a one-time “administrative fee” when you move in. This is very common and helps offset the costs of setting up your tenant account and handling paperwork. Admin fees are usually between $15-$25, possibly more, and may stand in for your security deposit. Taxes will vary by location.
You will need to provide your own lock for the unit. Locks range from $5-$50. There may also be fees for include dumpster service, electricity, etc.
FAQ
What type of contract will I be required to sign?
Self-storage contracts will include details about what you can keep in your unit, rules governing access and usage, and the facility’s payment policy. Always read your contract carefully before signing.
What is self-storage insurance and is it required to rent a unit?
Self-storage insurance covers storage units and their contents. Many storage facilities require you to have insurance before renting to you and do not assume responsibility for lost, stolen, or damaged items. If you bring your declaration page when you visit the facility, they may waive the insurance fee (around $20). Keep in mind that even if your facility requires proof of insurance, taking out a policy will protect your valuables in an adverse event.
Do storage facilities offer insurance?
Some do. If you do not have insurance, you can purchase it through the facility, or find your own carrier. Shop around for the best price.
How much does it cost to insure a storage unit?
Storage unit insurance is fairly inexpensive- as low as $2 for every $100 of stored items. Depending on your desired level of coverage, the average price ranges from $6-$24.
Are storage units covered under homeowners insurance?
Standard homeowners or renters insurance policies cover items that are in storage, but only at a certain percentage of your coverage limit. Your insurance agent can help you go over the details of your policy.
Do storage units have lights?
Whether indoors or out, storage facilities will provide hallway or outdoor lighting, but not interior lighting. Bring a flashlight or headlamp if you’re visiting at night.
What can i keep in storage?
Furniture
Furniture is one of the most commonly stored categories of personal items. Furniture is often quite valuable, sometimes even a family heirloom, so consider climate control to help keep it in great condition for years to come.
Electronics
As with furniture, electronics are vulnerable to the elements. Extreme hot and cold can damage their materials, and humidity can destroy their internal components. Climate control helps prevent the above problems from forming.
Food (sometimes)
If it’s not canned or if it’s perishable, don’t keep it in a storage unit. Attracting pests due to the presence of food is a quick path to eviction.
Guns (sometimes)
Always check with the facility manager first. Depending on their policy, it may be fine to store registered firearms in your unit, but there are probably strict guidelines to follow. If the facility does allow you to keep guns in the unit, always keep them unloaded.
What can’t I keep in storage?
Hazardous, flammable or explosive material
If a material is dangerous when spilled or is combustible, DO NOT KEEP IT IN STORAGE. If you need to store any type of chemical, do your research and make sure it’s 100% safe to do so.
FAQs
How big is a 10x10 storage unit? ›
How big is a 10x10 storage unit? A 10x10 self storage unit is 10 feet wide and 10 feet long, totaling 100 square feet.
How big is a 5x5 storage unit? ›A 5x5 self storage unit is 5 feet wide and 5 feet long, totaling 25 square feet — comparable to a large closet. Many of our 5x5 storage units have 8-foot ceilings, providing roughly a total of 200 cubic feet of packing space.
What is the difference between storage 5x10 and 10x5? ›5x10 Unit (50 sq. ft.): Ideal for storing the contents of a studio apartment, including a number of boxes, kitchen appliances, small mattress set, chairs, or even a motorcycle. 10x5 Unit (50 sq. ft.): Identical to a 5x10 unit just with a wider door and shallower storage-depth.
What fits in an 8x10 storage unit? ›8'x10' Storage Unit
Can hold items from a one to two rooms such as a refrigerator, washer/dryer, patio furniture, many boxes, and miscellaneous items.
If you're only storing boxes, a 5x10 self storage unit can fit up to 20 large boxes with room to spare. When stored with furniture or appliances, you may want to use a variety of small, medium and large boxes to make the most of the space you have.
What fits in a 9x10 storage unit? ›The 9×10 space opens up several storage possibilities. If you're moving from a smaller home or apartment, and need temporary or long-term storage, this is storage unit size may be a perfect fit. Store a lot of your household items and personal belongings, furniture, moving boxes and garage contents.
Can a queen size bed fit in a 5x10 storage unit? ›Due to the dimensions of a 5' x 10' self storage unit, both a king and a queen mattress can fit inside. You can actually store a king mattress and the included box spring with room to spare.
Can a couch fit in a 5x5 storage unit? ›Can a couch fit inside a 5x5 storage unit? Yes! You can fit a couch inside a 5x5 storage unit, but it will need to be stored on its side.
Can a queen size mattress fit in a 5x5 storage? ›Can I Fit a Queen Mattress in a 5×5 Storage Unit? Technically, yes. A queen mattress is 60 in wide and so is a 5×5 unit. If the storage unit has 8 ft ceilings (which is common), there would be room for the 80 in length of a queen mattress when stood on end.
Can a king size bed fit in a 5x5 storage unit? ›A 5'x5' storage unit can't hold queen- and king-size mattresses. Both queen- and king-size mattresses are at least five feet wide and over six feet tall, so the only way you could squeeze them into a 5'x5' storage unit would be upright — but it's not recommended to keep a mattress in such a position as this damages it.
What would fit in a 10 by 5 storage? ›
Typically, a 5x10 storage unit can hold: Mid-size bedroom furniture. Twin or Queen size mattress. Large appliances.
How big is 15x5 storage? ›How big is a 5x15 storage unit? The 5x15 self storage units are 5 feet wide and 15 feet long, totaling 75 square feet.
What is the most popular storage unit size? ›The 10'x10′ is the most popular storage unit size because of its versatility. It's a medium-sized space of about one-hundred square feet or roughly half the size of a standard garage. You can comfortably fit the contents of a two-bedroom apartment and all the boxes and totes that go with them.
What does a 5 by 10 unit look like? ›A 5x10 self storage unit is a 5 feet wide and 10 feet long small storage solution, totaling 50 square feet. For comparison, a 5x10 space is a small storage unit that's about the size of an average walk-in closet. Many units have an 8-foot ceiling, giving you up to 400 cubic feet of storage space.
How do I choose storage size? ›Multiply the length and width of your belongings. If they make a pile that's 5 x 5 feet, you'd need a storage unit with at least 25 square feet (Extra Space Storage has excellent 5 x 5 storage units).
How many bedrooms can fit in a 10x20 storage unit? ›This opens in a new window. This 10x20 self storage unit is equivalent to the size of a standard one car garage or about 200 square feet. You can fit a three bedroom house in here including all furniture, a large kitchen, major appliances, large outdoor gear, and 15-20 large boxes.
What fits in a 10x20 shed? ›A 10×20 shed is large enough to store anything. Okay, maybe not anything, but you get the gist. 200 square feet gives you the flexibility to store recreational vehicles such as 4 wheelers, snowmobiles, and riding lawnmowers. There will also be room for patio furniture, lawn care equipment, and even mechanical supplies.
Can a car fit in 10x20? ›Can you fit a car in a 10x20 storage unit? Yes! You can fit a small car in a 10x20 storage unit.
Can a 10x10 storage unit fit a couch? ›A 10x10 unit is a good size for the stuff found in two bedrooms, an entire family room or a modest one- or two-bedroom apartment. A few large appliances and pieces of large furniture can easily be stored in a 10x10 storage unit as well as mattress sets, desks, couches, dining room sets and multiple boxes.
How much can you store in a 8x10 shed? ›SUFFICIENT SPACE FOR LARGER ITEMS
According to LP's Shed Size Calculator, an 8×10 shed would be able to fit only about 2 fuel cans, 2 garden tools, a generator, a propane grill, a ladder, a lawn, mower, a miter saw table and a sawhorse, and a small drivable vehicle.
What fits in an 8x8 storage unit? ›
A 8x8 self-storage space will typically have room for items such as: Residential: Appliances, Bedroom Set, Books, Chairs, Clothes from Walk-in Closet, Comforter, Craft Boxes, End Tables, Hats, Holiday Decorations, Love Seat, Luggage, Microwave Oven, Storage Boxes, Toys, Vacuum Cleaner...
Can a 5x10 fit a washer and dryer? ›The 5x10 storage unit is great for storing garage items such as lawn equipment, sporting equipment, small furniture, holiday decorations, or lots of boxes. Unused large appliances such as your washer and dryer can also be stored in 5x10 storage until you need them.
Can a sectional couch fit in a 5x10 storage unit? ›Yes! Your couch can fit into a 5x10 storage unit.
How big is a 12x30 storage unit? ›Storage Unit Size
12' x 30' / Approx 360 sq. ft.
King-sized mattress sets require additional space due to their larger size. Choose a medium-sized storage unit like the 10×10 to store your king-sized bed. This unit will also accommodate furniture, a home entertainment center, a washer and dryer, boxes, and much of the content from a two-bedroom apartment.
Is a queen size bed too big for a 10x10 room? ›If you have a small bedroom, you may think that there's no way to fit a queen in there, right? There's good news—even a cozy 10' x 10' bedroom can comfortably fit a queen.
Can a king size bed fit in a 10x10? ›King size mattresses are 76 x 80 inches and are also ideal for the whole brood to sleep in comfortably. At the minimum, king mattresses will fit rooms that are 10 x 12 feet. However, if you need to fit in more bedroom furniture, a room with 13 x 13 feet is best.
Is it OK to put couch in storage unit? ›Allow for Air Flow: Avoid placing your couch right up against an exterior wall in a self storage unit. Instead, allow for at least 10 centimeters from a wall so the couch fabric can breathe while in storage.
Should you cover a couch in storage? ›Cover Your Couch for Long-Term Storage. After moving your couch inside your storage unit, you need to keep it covered. Do not cover your couch with tight plastic wraps or bubble wraps as it causes moisture to build up over time. Instead, use furniture pads, light blankets, or repurposed clothes to cover your furniture.
What is the smallest storage? ›The bit is the smallest fundamental size of data storage.
It is a binary digit meaning that it can take the value of either 1 or 0. A single byte stores eight bits i.e., eight 1's or 0's. Kilobyte consists of 1024 bytes. Megabyte contains 1024 kilobytes.
Is it OK to stack mattresses for storage? ›
Yes. Not only can they be stacked, but they should be stacked. Stacking mattresses on top of each other is the recommended way to store them long-term. Make sure the floor of your storage unit is clean.
How can I make my mattress smaller for storage? ›- Set up the Mattress. To prepare your mattress for compression, remove all bedding except for the mattress protector. ...
- Bag the Mattress. Slip the mattress into the plastic bag. ...
- Attach the Valve. ...
- Vacuum Up the Air. ...
- Roll Up the Mattress. ...
- Tie It Up.
Room Size Requirements For A King Sized Bed:
According to experts in the industry, the minimum room size to accommodate a Standard King sized bed is 12 feet by 9.10 feet. This will leave at least 30 inches of space around the bed for free movement.
Minimum Room Size For King Size Bed
According to experts in interior design, the minimum room size where a king-sized bed can be placed easily is 12 feet by 9-10 feet. A good rule of thumb is to leave at least 30 inches of space around the bed. This not only gives plenty of space for free movement.
Whether you're storing your appliances in a storage unit or your garage, it's a good idea to place them on wooden pallets to prevent condensation from forming. If you live in a place with high humidity, you'll want to avoid putting your appliances in a storage unit that is not climate-controlled.
How big is 10 20 storage? ›10x20 Storage Unit Sizes & Types
Our 10x20 storage units are 10 feet wide and 20 feet long, equaling a total of 200 square feet of storage space.
How Tall Is a 5x5 Storage Unit? 5x5 self storage units at Extra Space Storage are typically 8 feet tall, but some locations may offer units with ceilings 10 feet or higher. This vertical space gives you flexibility to store tall or long items in your small storage unit.
How big is a 10 by 15 room? ›For the most part, these units are 15 feet long and 10 feet wide. In general, this equals approximately 150 square feet of usable space.
How big is a 10x15 room? ›10x15. A 10x15 storage unit has 150 square feet of space.
Is a 10x15 a big room? ›10x15 self storage units offer 150 square feet of storage space. A 10x15 unit is about the size of a large bedroom, providing plenty of space for medium-sized storage needs.
Is a 10x10 bedroom too small? ›
So, while a 10- by 7-foot area is pretty small, a 10- by 10-foot room is not what most people would consider spacious or roomy. A twin-size bed should fit fine and still have enough space to move around the bed. With larger mattresses and furniture, this size room would be more than a bit cramped.
Is a 10x15 bedroom small? ›It is about the size of a standard one car garage, living room, or spare bedroom, and can hold furnishings from a two-bedroom apartment including a refrigerator, washer and dryer, some boxes, and small items.
Is a 12x12 room small? ›A 12-by-12 bedroom's small, boxy footprint seems even more awkward and tighter when you consider standard furniture sizes; a queen-sized bed, for instance, measures 60-by-80 inches or 5-by-6.7 feet, consuming a big chunk of floor space.
What is a 12x12 room? ›So if a bedroom is 12 feet wide and 12 feet long, it is 144 square feet total (12 x 12 = 144 sqft). Basically, the square footage of the room is the total area or size of the space. Often abbreviated as sqft or sq.
How many rooms fit in a 10x10? ›What can you fit in a 10x10 storage unit? 10x10 self storage units can hold the contents of up to three rooms total. A 10x10 unit is a good size for the stuff found in two bedrooms, an entire family room or a modest one- or two-bedroom apartment.
How big is a 14 by 12 room? ›In the present case, the area of the room is 14x12= 168 sq feet. This 168 square feet of tiles would be needed.
Can a king size bed fit in a 5x10 storage unit? ›Due to the dimensions of a 5' x 10' self storage unit, both a king and a queen mattress can fit inside. You can actually store a king mattress and the included box spring with room to spare.
What is a good size for a storage room? ›The size of the storage unit that you need depends on how much stuff you have. Move.org recommends you calculate the square footage of your belongings and then choose between a small (25–50 square feet), medium (75–150 square feet), or large (200–300 square feet) storage unit.
How big is a 10x20 space? ›10x20 Storage Unit Sizes & Types
Our 10x20 storage units are 10 feet wide and 20 feet long, equaling a total of 200 square feet of storage space.
At a minimum, a storage unit will need to be 10' x 15' feet to store an automobile. However, for most cars, 10' x 20' provides a much better fit. Many models will need even more space than this, so measure the length and width of your car carefully before investing in a storage unit.
What size truck do I need for a 10x15 storage? ›
What size moving truck do I need for a 10x15 storage unit? We recommend a 20 ft. Moving Truck.
What do you put on the floor of a storage unit? ›We recommend putting something on the floor such as plastic, a tarp, or wood pallets. Even plastic spray can lids can be used for lighter boxed items. 3) Rubber tubs are recommended over cardboard for most items. They are better at keeping moisture out, also easier to stack.