What to Consider About Apartment Storage Units
A storage unit is an enclosed spaced used for keeping items safe and secure during a move, renovations, or just when you need some extra space. Some storage units will be temperature controlled while others are specific for storing things like cars and boats. But a standard storage unit is an enclosed structure meant for items like boxes and furniture.
An off-site storage unit is the most common type of self-storage. Some of the buildings are climate controlled, meaning you walk inside the building to access the unit, but some can be accessed from the outside as well. Typically, a self-storage business will specialize in these spaces, so they have many options for size and unit type.
Recently, apartment communities have been adding on-site storage units to their list of amenities. These units are normally in a central location on or in the property, but there might not be as much of a size variety as you would have in an off-site facility. Your landlord will have the specific information regarding these units.
More than likely, if you have an on-site storage unit in your apartment, you will have to pay extra to rent it. Prices will vary depending on unit size and your community, and the price may be added to your rent price or billed as a separate fee. Be sure to ask your landlord for specific details.
For an on-site unit, you will likely be able to rent a storage unit for the duration of your apartment lease. If you’re renting through a self-storage company, you will most likely pay month-to-month and complete some type of rental agreement. Depending on the company, you may or may not have a to sign a contract as well.
When it comes to covering damage in your storage unit, you will be liable if your items cause damage. Be mindful of what is not allowed in the storage unit and never store any perishables or wet items that could cause bug infestations or mold. Also, keep in mind that the self-storage company isn’t liable for the contents of the unit. For example, if theft occurs and all the promised security features are working, the company likely is not liable. The good news is that you can purchase self-storage insurance through your storage provider or a separate company to protect your belongings.
Storage Unit Sizes
Whether you are renting on-site or at an off-site facility, understanding the size of the storage unit is essential for optimizing space. The dimensions of the storage unit should be calculated for you because prices normally vary based on size. The being said, you need to understand how much you can fit within the dimensions.
A 5x5 is usually the smallest storage unit you’ll find. These dimensions are comparable to a large, walk-in closet. These units are great for renters who just need a bit of extra space. It can fit maybe five to eight medium-size boxes as well as extra items like lamps and chairs. You could potentially fit a queen-size bed too, but there wouldn’t be much space for anything else.
A 5x10 is the step up from a 5x5 unit. Around 20 large boxes strategically placed next to medium furniture like a desk could fit in here. This option is great if you have an overflow of items you don’t want to part with.
A two-bedroom apartment should fit in a 10x10 storage unit. Of course, this will vary depending on how many square feet your apartment is. If your apartment is larger than 800 square feet, or you need to store a lot of large items, you may need to consider sizing up to a 10x15 unit. A 10x10 unit should be enough space for three rooms. You should be able to fit large furniture like dressers, a king-size mattress, desks, etc. with ample space left over for boxes.
What to Keep in Your Apartment Storage Unit
Whether you need a storage unit between moves or you need extra space, there are certain items that work well in storage and others that should never make it into your unit.
Most importantly, storage units are not meant for living things. Plants, pets, and people cannot stay in these units. While that might be obvious, keep in mind items like cleaning supplies (chlorine, bleach, ammonia), fertilizers, paint, etc. cannot be kept in these units either. Also, make sure that all items are completely dry before you store them because you don’t want mold to start growing.
Items you can’t put in a storage unit
- Flammable items
- Combustible materials (solvents, paints)
- Valuables (irreplaceable documents, jewelry)
- Certain vehicles (uninsured, broken)
- Live plants
- Weapons
- Perishables
- Animals/people
- Liquids
- Anything illegal (stolen goods, drugs)
- Toxic materials (fertilizers, chlorine, ammonia, acetone, paint thinner, etc.)
- Wet items
If you're unsure on whether you can safely store a specific object in your storage unit, just ask your landlord or storage company.
Now, which items work best in the storage unit? Holiday décor and seasonal clothing are great items to store to free up space in your apartment. Other items that you don’t use regularly like camping gear, bikes, and extra furniture could also be stored. If you have a small apartment, keeping specific items in storage like tools and hobby supplies would make sense too.
How to Organize a Storage Unit
Before you start filling your unit, thoroughly clean the space and the items going in. Next, cover the floor to avoid any condensation forming on the concrete. Then, you’ll want to start an inventory list of what is going in the unit. Take pictures of your items or create a list. Keep one copy of the list in the unit and another somewhere in your home.
During the packing process, you might want to ditch cardboard boxes for clear, plastic containers. Cardboard can attract bugs and doesn’t allow you to see the contents inside. Regardless of which box you choose, make sure to label it. This will save you a lot of time in the long run. You’ll also want to get the same size bins for easy stacking when it’s time to fill the unit. It’s best to not stack one box on top of the other to avoid putting all the weight on one box. Stack the boxes like you would bricks to distribute weight properly, and make sure the boxes on the bottom are heavier than the ones on top.
When it comes time to start filling the storage unit, the least used items should be kept in the back with the most used near the entrance. For example, if you’re an avid outdoorsman, put all your biking, hiking, and camping gear up front and your holiday decorations towards the back of the unit.
It’s also good practice to utilize shelves and racks. If you can, anchor things like bikes or tools to the wall. Put shelves in the unit to utilize vertical space. Shelves and racks will also keep you organized. Putting like items together will make everything easy to find.
Make sure you leave enough space between your belongings to create an aisle so you can easily maneuver between your items and quickly find what you need.
After everything is organized in the unit, don’t forget to leave your inventory list inside and lock the door. You may need to bring your own lock or buy one from the storage company. Save yourself a headache and make sure you have two keys. Keep one in a safe space in your house or car and leave the other with a trusted person or in an easily obtainable spot in case of a lockout.
Whether you choose to rent a storage unit through a self-storage company or through your apartment, they are a great way for renters to save space without having to sacrifice their belongings. Choosing the right unit and maximizing the space is essential for getting the most out of your unit. Hopefully, these tips help!
