The average American home contains a staggering number of items, approximately 300,000! [1]
Moreover, the average American household has tripled in size in the last half-century. [2] But if you’re not interested in new-age minimalism and throwing out your things, or buying a bigger house, then renting a storage unit is your best option. This way, you can both declutter your home and keep all your extra stuff safe.
How Does Self Storage Work?
Self Storage offers rentable units which you can pay for on a monthly basis. Their size differs so you can use them to store a few smaller things or even your complete furniture.
These Storage units can be part of a warehouse with multiple stories or in a building that only has a ground level. They also often come with security systems such as cameras and an on-site security guard.
The best thing about self storage units is that you can usually access them whenever you want, no matter the day of the week or time of day. In most cases, a self storage company lets you use your own lock, or they give you a key.
What Is Self Storage Good For?
There are a few common scenarios where self storage units can be beneficial:
When Moving into a New Apartment
If you have a gap between moving out and moving in, a self storage unit lets you temporarily store all your valuables and belongings safely and then bring them to a new home when it’s time to move in finally. What’s more, if you’re moving to a smaller apartment, you can always store excess furniture and belongings this way.
When You Need a Safe Place for Excess or Valuable Items
You may not want to store wine, artwork, or antiques at your home in case of theft or for lack of right storage conditions. That’s where self storage comes in handy; especially from companies that have climate-controlled units, round the clock security, and other useful services.
In Case of a Divorce
Self storage can be a very convenient way to store bulky items and other valuables when moving out of your home and moving into a smaller apartment. Settling into a new lifestyle can take a while, and you may move multiple times within a short span of time. Having somewhere to place excess belongings that would otherwise make those moves difficult will help relieve the stress of switching houses so often.
Where to Start?
If you’re looking for a cheap self storage unit in your area, the best way is to do your research by searching online for a local facility. Besides calling companies, you can read reviews about security, access, storage conditions, etc. Make sure to find more than one storage company and to compare what they offer. Whether you want to move, declutter, or downsize, a cheap self storage unit is an excellent service to use.
[1] Mary MacVean. “For many people, gathering possessions is just the stuff of life.” Los Angeles Times, 21 March 2014. https://www.latimes.com/health/la-xpm-2014-mar-21-la-he-keeping-stuff-20140322-story.html
[2] Margot Adler. “Behind the Ever-Expanding American Dream House.” NPR, 4 July 2006. https://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=5525283
