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 there’s no interest in new-age minimalism, throwing out too many things, or purchasing a bigger house, then renting a storage unit is the most logical option. This way, it’s possible to both declutter the home and keep all that extra stuff safe.
How Does Self Storage Work?
Self Storage provides rentable units which can be paid for on a monthly basis. Their size differs so they can be used to store a few smaller things or even complete furniture sets.
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 amazing thing about self storage units is that they can usually be accessed no matter the day of the week or time of day. In most cases, a self storage company lets clients use their own lock, or they provide 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 there is a gap in time between moving out and moving in, a self storage unit lets users temporarily store all their valuables and belongings safely and then bring them to a new home when it’s time to move in finally. What’s more, if moving to a smaller apartment, they can always store excess furniture and belongings this way.
When A Safe Place is Needed for Excess or Valuable Items
Storing wine, artwork or valuable items at home may not be ideal in case of theft or for lack of the right storage setup. 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 the home and moving into a smaller apartment. Settling into a new lifestyle can take a while, and people 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?
When looking for an affordable self storage unit in the local area, the suggested way is to do abundant research by searching online for a local facility. Besides calling companies, read reviews about security, access, storage room, etc. Make sure to find more than one storage company and to compare what they provide. Whether the objective is to move, declutter, or downsize, an affordable 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