{"id":7248,"date":"2022-10-24T09:00:00","date_gmt":"2022-10-24T16:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/blog.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/?p=7248"},"modified":"2026-02-10T10:02:00","modified_gmt":"2026-02-10T17:02:00","slug":"before-renting-a-storage-unit","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.neighbor.com\/storage-blog\/before-renting-a-storage-unit\/","title":{"rendered":"Renting a Storage Unit: How to Find the Perfect Extra Space for All Your Extra Belongings"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Storage units serve as helpful solutions to lots of problems, like what to do with your belongings while you travel, where to store furniture during a remodel, and how to declutter or <\/span>downsize<\/span><\/a> without parting from sentimental items.<\/span><\/p>\n

More than 20% of Americans utilize self storage, and another 15% say they plan on renting a unit in the future, according to a <\/span>study by Storage Cafe<\/span><\/a>. If you’re among the 15% or are simply curious about renting a storage unit, here are 13 <\/span>things you should know<\/span><\/a> before renting a storage unit. <\/span><\/p>\n

Not All Storage Facilities Are Made Equal<\/span><\/h2>\n

While some facilities are regularly inspected, offer 24\/7 access, and are equipped with surveillance cameras, that’s not the case for all self-storage sites. Here are a couple of factors you’ll want to consider before opting for a specific <\/span>self storage facility<\/span><\/a>: <\/span><\/p>\n

Security:<\/b> A <\/span>safe and secure storage facility<\/span><\/a> will have security cameras, gated access, proper lighting, and in-person surveillance.<\/span><\/p>\n

Accessibility:<\/b> If you predict you’ll need your items at inconvenient times, opt for a unit with 24-hour access.<\/span><\/p>\n

Location:<\/b> Retrieving items from a facility located across town can be a hassle. Consider how far you’re willing to drive and how frequently you’ll need to access the unit.<\/span><\/p>\n

Reviews:<\/b> If you’re still not sure whether you’re looking at a safe and suitable facility, check out the reviews to get a full picture of the renting experience. <\/span><\/p>\n

You’ll Need a Valid Government-Issued ID<\/span><\/h2>\n

When renting a storage unit, be prepared to present a valid form of identification. This could be a driver’s license, a passport, a state ID, or a military ID. You’ll also be asked to sign a contract, agreeing to any conditions the storage facility sets. <\/span><\/p>\n

Storage Units Vary in Size<\/span><\/h2>\n

The average storage unit typically ranges anywhere from 5’x5′ feet to 10’x30′ feet. Here’s a breakdown of popular storage unit sizes<\/a> and what they can hold: <\/span><\/p>\n

5’×5′: <\/b>This unit is the size of a small closet. <\/span>A 5×5 storage unit<\/span><\/a> can fit a small mattress set, a dresser, and several medium-sized boxes.<\/span><\/p>\n

5’×10′:<\/b> The 5×10<\/span><\/a> is the size of a small walk-in closet. It can fit the contents of a mid-sized bedroom.<\/span><\/p>\n

5’×15′:<\/b> This unit is the size of a large walk-in closet. It can fit the contents of a single bedroom, including a dresser, a queen-sized bed, golf clubs, a television set, and several medium- to large-sized boxes.<\/span><\/p>\n

10’×10′<\/b>: This is arguably the most popular storage unit. The size of half a standard one-car garage, the 10×10 unit can fit the furnishings of an entire family room or two full bedrooms.<\/span><\/p>\n

10’×15′:<\/b> The 10×15 unit<\/span><\/a> can fit the contents of three full bedrooms.<\/span><\/p>\n

10’×20′:<\/b> The size of a standard one-car garage; <\/span>the 10×20<\/span><\/a> can fit the furnishings of a multi-bedroom house, including a couch, refrigerator, dining room set, and several large boxes.<\/span><\/p>\n

10’×30′:<\/b> This storage unit is as large as a one-and-a-half-car garage. It can fit the furnishings of a three to five-bedroom house.<\/span><\/p>\n

Costs Can Vary<\/span><\/h2>\n

A self storage unit <\/span>typically costs<\/span><\/a> somewhere between $75 and $300 a month, although there are some units available for as low as $40. The cost is based on factors such as size, location, facilities, and any additional insurance fees. <\/span><\/p>\n

Long-term leases are usually cheaper than short-term leases, and climate-controlled units tend to be more expensive. <\/span><\/p>\n

Most Storage Contracts Are Month-To-Month<\/span><\/h2>\n

If you need a storage unit for just a week, prepare to pay for the entire month. Most self-storage rental companies, like <\/span>Neighbor<\/span><\/a>, operate on month-to-month contracts. You won’t have to sign any long-term contract, but you will pay for the full month. <\/span><\/p>\n

If you’re looking for something with weekly contracts, look into independent locally-owned storage companies, as they are more likely to offer short-term storage contracts.<\/span><\/p>\n

You Might Need a Climate-Controlled Storage Unit<\/h2>\n

There are two types of self-storage units: climate-controlled units and non-climate-controlled units. Here’s the difference:<\/span><\/p>\n

Climate-controlled storage units<\/span><\/h3>\n

These units are housed inside a building and maintain a temperature between <\/span>50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit<\/b>. Climate control storage means that items are protected from humidity and extreme temperatures. Opt for one of these units if you’re storing sensitive or valuable belongings, like artwork, electronics, antiques, or musical instruments. <\/span><\/p>\n

Climate-controlled storage<\/span><\/a> units cost more than the non-climatized units of the same size but usually only by about <\/span>$10 a month<\/span><\/a>. However, non-climate-controlled storage units often offer drive-up access, meaning you can park your car or truck right outside the unit for better accessibility. <\/span>Non-climate-controlled storage units.<\/span><\/p>\n

Non-climate-controlled storage units<\/span><\/h4>\n

These units lack temperature or humidity regulation, making them suitable for more durable items, such as gardening supplies, camping gear, bikes, seasonal decorations, and construction materials.<\/span><\/p>\n

d requires you to schedule a time and pay for the provider to drop off any items that you’d like to use.<\/p>\n

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How Neighbor is changing storage<\/h2>\r\n <\/header>\r\n
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Transparent monthly savings<\/h3>\r\n

Renters save 30-50% on self storage, on average. No rate hikes.<\/p>\r\n <\/div>\r\n

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Keep your items nearby<\/h3>\r\n

Hosts in your neighborhood means that your things are always close by.<\/p>\r\n <\/div>\r\n

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Storage made simple<\/h3>\r\n

Don't settle for stone age tech and long contracts. Neighbor makes it easy.<\/p>\r\n <\/div>\r\n <\/section>\r\n