Whether you’re downsizing to a one-bedroom apartment and need to store some extra furniture, or you’re moving from Philadelphia to Atlanta and need somewhere to store your belongings during the transition, renting a storage unit can be a complicated process. Let’s break down the details on the types of storage units, recommended sizes and how to pack your storage unit.
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Which Storage Option Is Right for You?
The two main categories are self-storage units and movable storage containers. In deciding between the two, the main factor is access versus mobility.
With a traditional self-storage unit, you can easily access your belongings at any time. These types of storage units will typically cost less, but there’s more work involved because the boxes will need to go from your current apartment to the truck, then to the storage unit, then back to the truck before finally making their way into your new apartment.
By using a moveable container storage unit, you are combining storage and shipment. Although this gives you greater mobility, you will not have access to your stuff while it’s in storage, and the storage rates typically cost more than a traditional storage unit.
Choosing Your Storage Unit
There are some additional factors to consider when choosing your storage unit. No matter how long you are storing your belongings for, the security of the storage unit is crucial because you want to be sure that your belongings will not get stolen or vandalized. Additionally, a climate-controlled storage location is important because even small amounts of dampness can ruin your things with mold and mildew.
Recommended sizing for your storage unit is as follows:
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- 8’ x 12’: 2 to 3 rooms
- 10’ x 10’: 3 rooms
- 8’ x 16’: 3 to 4 rooms
- 10’ x 15’: 4 rooms
- 10’ x 20’: 5 rooms
- 10’ x 25’: 6 rooms
Storage Preparations
Before you begin to pack your storage unit, you need to do some prep work. First of all, make sure your storage unit is reserved in advance. Next, secure insurance for your things while they’re in storage. If you have renter’s insurance, your policy may cover belongings that are off-site, or insurance may be available when you rent the storage unit.
Next, address your belongings by making sure everything you’re packing is clean and dry. Be sure to label your boxes, and don’t forget to mark what’s fragile. For a packing hack, seal your cardboard boxes using packing tape that doubles as a label because it has the room name printed on the tape.
Another important part of the prep work is to disassemble large objects like bed frames or tables. A pro tip is to put all of the assembly screws in a baggie and attach it to the piece of furniture. Your future self will thank you for not losing that set of assembly screws.
How to Pack Your Storage Unit
Before you even put things in your storage unit, start with a strategy. You’ll want to place furniture and large items so you use the space effectively. Next, consider if there will be things you need to have available in your unit. These objects should be placed so you can easily access them after the unit is packed.
When packing the unit, consider the floor material and use wooden pallets to add air circulation or cardboard to prevent furniture scuffing. When stacking boxes, place heavy boxes on the bottom and lighter boxes on top. Remember to think vertical. High spaces are a great location for things like pillows.
Use smaller items to fill in odd spaces between furniture or inside empty spaces like a dresser. Lastly, use blankets or tarps as a covering to keep everything protected and dust-free.
For more tips for a better apartment life, follow along at the ForRent.com Apartment Living Blog.