If you’re mid-move, you probably don’t have time to tour five facilities. You need to know what to look for in a storage unit fast, then get back to sorting through your stuff.
We’ve walked thousands of first-time renters through finding the right storage space. It usually comes down to a handful of details that are easy to miss, like whether a gate locks, or what’s in the contract beyond the monthly price.
Here’s the full list, so you know what to check when you’re searching for storage.
What to Look for in a Storage Unit Before You Book
These are the factors to weigh up when you’re comparing units and getting ready to book:
- Location and access hours: You need a unit that’s close enough (and open long enough) for you to visit without a hassle.
- Size: You’ll need enough room to load and unload easily, whether you’re storing a car or just a spare mattress.
- Price and contract terms: The advertised price isn’t all you’ll be paying at move-in.
- Climate control: If you’re storing photos, wooden furniture, or anything collectible, your unit may need controlled temperature and humidity levels.
- Rate increases: Storage facilities tend to hike their prices over time.
- Security: Look for working gates, keypads, cameras, and lighting.
- Insurance: Check the off-premises coverage on your renter’s or homeowner’s policy, and see if you need extra protection.
- Perks: Some facilities offer extras that might swing your decision.
- Reviews and reputation: Learn from others’ experiences at each specific facility you’re considering.
- Restricted items: No facility will let you store paint or anything else that’s flammable, for instance.
Let’s break down what each one means for your move.
Tip #1: Factor in Location and Access
A great rate on the other side of town sounds fine until you’re making a third trip. People usually need storage during stressful life changes, and it’s important to be able to get to your unit easily to find or stash something that slipped off the list.
And if you’re storing a car, it needs a short drive every 2 weeks. Not all storage facilities allow vehicles, so double-check the availability of a drive-in or outdoor space before you book.
So, convenience is one thing to prioritize. But location affects your bill. In big cities, storage units often cost two to four times more than in mid-sized cities. And sometimes the difference is even more stark: a 10×20 in Memphis costs $103 a month on average. In San Francisco, that average is $611.
Add your work schedule to the equation, and think about when you’ll most likely be visiting your unit. Some facilities offer extended hours or 24-hour entry for an extra fee.
Finally, if you’re considering a unit on an upper floor, ask about the elevator. There may be passenger elevators, or just freight or vertical platform lifts. These carry your stuff, but you’ll be taking the stairs.
Tip #2: Pick the Right Size for Your Stuff
Most storage units have 8-foot ceilings, so you’ll often be able to stack higher than you think. Still, if you’re stuck between sizes, go bigger. It’s cheaper than renting a second unit mid-move.
Here’s a look at some common sizes to get you in the right ballpark:
- 5×5: Think walk-in closet. It works for seasonal decor, sports gear, and other overflow.
- 5×10: This fits about what you’d bring into a dorm room or studio apartment.
- 10×10: A one-bedroom apartment’s worth of belongings fit comfortably here. If you organize it well, you could fit a two-bedroom without big appliances.
- 10×15: A full two-bedroom apartment, including appliances, usually works in this size.
- 10×20: This can hold a family car plus some extras, or about five rooms’ worth of belongings.
Our storage unit size guide has the full scoop.
Tip #3: Weigh Up the Cost and Contract
Size is a big influence on cost. A 5×5 unit averages $53 a month nationwide, while a 10×30 averages $258 a month.
Climate control also factors in. Adding controlled temperature and humidity levels to a 10×10 unit moves the national average from $120 a month to $137 a month, for instance. Some renters even pay 20%–50% more for the added protection. We’ll talk about which items actually need it in the next section.
Storage unit prices also shift by season. About 80% of moves take place between May and September, so you’re likely to save on a storage unit if you can hold out until fall or winter.
At storage facilities, rent is usually month-to-month, and proration is rare, so you’ll be charged for a full month even if you only need 2 weeks. In that case, look for a unit with a hefty first-month discount and double-check the cancellation policy before you sign the contract.
At that stage, you’ll also be looking at a security deposit, an admin fee, or both. The admin fee may be $10 to $25 or more.
Our storage cost breakdown covers the full range of factors that contribute to your bill.
Tip #4: Consider Climate Control
Climate control keeps your unit between about 55°F and 85°F year-round, and it keeps humidity levels in check to prevent mold and other damage.
If you live somewhere humid, like the Gulf Coast, or if you’re storing leather or wooden furniture for more than a few months, climate control is worth the investment. The same goes for antiques, wine, and electronics.
But tools, patio furniture, and camping or sports gear tend to be fine without it. Our climate control guide lists exactly what needs it and what doesn’t.
Tip #5: Research the Rate
Many facilities offer great deals to get you in the door, then raise the price once you’re settled in. Ask how the facility handles rate increases: how often they happen and how much notice you’ll get.
If the promo rate is what convinced you to book, budget for a higher rate after a few months, so you’re not caught off guard.
Tip #6: Scout Out Security Features
Photos and security specs on a company’s website matter, but you’ll want to check the situation at the specific storage facility you’re considering. Walk around the facility if you can, and scan recent reviews.
You’re looking for:
- Gated or keypad entry that’s in use and seems effective
- Cameras aimed at the rows of units, not just the front office
- Lighting bright enough to feel comfortable at dusk
Ask if individual units are alarmed, not just the building’s perimeter, and if anyone walks the property at night. Check the on-site management hours, too, to get a sense of supervision.
Finally, invest in a solid lock that fits the door to your unit.
Facilities face break-ins no matter where they’re located. If you’re wondering how safe storage units really are, this guide has details.
Tip #7: Check Your Insurance Coverage
Most facilities need to see that you have coverage before they’ll hand you a key. Look at your renter’s or homeowner’s policy first. It’ll likely extend some coverage to what’s in your unit.
Often, the cap for a homeowner’s policy is 10% of your personal property protection. So, if your policy covers $20,000 in personal property, that’s roughly $2,000 for your unit. It’s fine for boxes of clothes, but not enough for a bedroom set.
Also, damage from flooding, pests, or mold isn’t covered, so make sure you read the exclusions section of your policy.
If you need more protection, storage facilities and insurers sell storage-specific policies. It might cost you $8 to $38 or more a month, depending on what you’ve got in your unit.
Our storage insurance guide walks you through your options.
Tip #8: Look Out for Perks
Some storage facilities rent you a free moving truck for up to 4 hours or have workspaces, coffee lounges, and packing supplies for you to use. Others lock in your rate for a full year.
Perks like these can be enough to break a tie when you’re comparing options.
Tip #9: Read Reviews
When you’ve got a shortlist of storage options, search recent reviews for each address.
Start with the star average, then scan for mentions of security issues, surprise rate hikes, and any patterns.
If you have time, check more than one site: Trustpilot, Yelp, and Google are solid sources.
Tip #10: Don’t Pack Everything
Every facility has a restricted list, and while the specifics can vary, a handful of items show up almost everywhere.
You won’t be able to store:
- Fertilizer, paint, gas, ammunition, or anything else that’s combustible
- Plants, pets, or other living things
- Stolen or illegal goods, including drug paraphernalia
Food is usually off-limits, too, though most facilities make an exception for shelf-stable items in tightly sealed containers.
Our full list of what not to pack covers some of the less obvious items.
The Bottom Line
You’ve got your list of priorities, and you need a storage spot that checks those boxes without breaking the bank. That’s where Neighbor comes in. A single search lets you compare all your storage options, from traditional units at nationwide brands to garages, driveways, and sheds rented out by hosts a few blocks over.
Renters on Neighbor typically save up to 50% compared to traditional storage, and you can filter the search for units with a first-month discount.
Every listing comes with photos and reviews, and you can message hosts with any questions before you request to book.
Any booking can come with up to $25,000 in property protection, and Neighbor carries a 4.9-star rating across more than 690,000 reviews.
Find your storage spot in under 5 minutes, or call us to talk it through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you store a car in a regular storage unit?
Yes, if the facility allows it, and you’re renting a drive-in unit that’s 10×20 or larger. Facilities usually handle vehicle storage separately, with different rules, including for insurance, so make your search specific to your vehicle.
Can more than one person have access to a storage unit?
Usually, yes. Most facilities let you add an authorized user to your account, and you’ll have separate access codes. If you’re renting from a host on Neighbor, double-check with them how shared access works.
Can you access your storage unit whenever you want?
It depends on the facility. Some offer 24-hour access, while others have set hours, often between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m.
