Putting belongings in storage is a common need for many people when they are moving, renovating their home, or just need more space. With so many storage options out there from self-storage units to portable containers, costs can really vary based on your specific needs. Getting an understanding of the average prices and factors that impact storage costs can help you budget and decide what storage solution will work best for your situation.
What are the average costs for different storage options?
Storage costs are usually determined by the size of the unit you need, how accessible you need it to be, and length of time you’ll be storing items. Here are some average price ranges:
Self-storage units
Self-storage units are stationary spaces located in a large storage facility that you can access on your own schedule. Costs typically range from:
– 5×5 unit – $40-$100 per month
– 5×10 unit – $60-$150 per month
– 10×10 unit – $90-$250 per month
– 10×15 unit – $130-$350 per month
– 10×20 unit – $150-$400 per month
Portable storage containers
Portable storage units are dropped off at your location and can be picked up and moved when needed. Average costs are:
– 16 foot portable container – $130-$230 per month
– 20 foot portable container – $150-$250 per month
– 40 foot portable container – $200-$400 per month
Climate controlled storage
For protection of valuables like art, antiques, electronics, etc., climate controlled spaces tend to have higher rates:
– 5×5 climate controlled unit – $60-$140 per month
– 5×10 climate controlled unit – $80-$180 per month
– 10×10 climate controlled unit – $130-$300 per month
Main factors impacting storage costs
Location
Like real estate, location is a major factor in storage pricing. Units in high-demand urban areas will be pricier than rural locations. Get quotes from a few facilities in different areas to find the best rate.
Unit size
The larger the storage space, the higher the monthly cost. Evaluate how much stuff you actually need to store before choosing a unit size to save money.
Accessibility and features
Storage facilities with climate control, advanced security like video monitoring, outdoor drive-up access, and extended access hours generally have higher rates to cover these convenience factors. Consider what features you really need.
Length of storage time
Long-term storage over several months or a year will have lower monthly rates vs. short-term storage for just a few weeks or months. Be realistic about how long you’ll need when requesting quotes.
Personal vs. commercial use
Storage for commercial business use typically has higher rates than an individual using storage for personal items. Be sure you communicate your intended use.
Insurance
Most storage facilities require tenants to have insurance for their belongings. If not insured, costs will include fees for coverage purchased through the facility, raising the monthly costs.
Ways to save on storage costs
Here are some tips to keep your storage bill lower:
– Opt for a smaller unit size if possible
– Choose an affordable facility in a location convenient for you
– Don’t pay for climate control if not necessary
– Check for online discounts and coupons
– Pay fees for multiple months upfront to lower monthly rate
– Make sure your belongings are insured to avoid facility fees
– Share a unit with someone else to split costs
Average cost to store specific items
Wondering what it costs to store specific belongings? Here are some estimates:
| Item | Average Monthly Cost |
| 1-2 room apartment worth of belongings | $75-$125 |
| Furnishings for a 3-4 bedroom home | $150-$275 |
| Office furnishings and files | $100-$200 |
| Car storage | $50-$100 |
| Boat storage | $75-$200 |
| RV storage | $100-$250 |
Rates will vary based on your specific city and storage facility. Be sure to get an accurate quote for your specific storage needs.
What size storage unit do I need?
Choosing the right storage unit size for your belongings is key to keeping your costs down. Here are some general size guidelines:
– 5×5 – Studio apartment furnishings or contents of 1 room
– 5×10 – 1-2 room apartment furnishings or excess furniture
– 10×10 – Furnishings for a 2-3 bedroom home or large furniture items
– 10×15 – Contents of a 2-3 bedroom home or a vehicle
– 10×20 – Furnishings for a 3-4 bedroom home or business inventory
– 10×30 – Entire home furnishings, business inventory, vehicles/boats
Take an inventory before selecting a unit size to avoid paying for more space than you need. Also consider room to access your items. Allow some extra room for frequently accessed boxes and furniture.
How can I determine the right storage time needed?
Storage duration impacts your monthly rate, so think realistically about how long you’ll need to store items:
– Less than 1 month – Short term storage for a move or renovation
– 1-3 months – Storage during a move, renovation, or transition
– 3-6 months – Semi-long term storage for an extended transition
– 6-12 months – Long term storage for a lengthy renovation or waiting to buy/sell a home
– 1 year or more – Indefinite long term storage
Estimate on the longer side if uncertain to avoid having to extend repeatedly and pay higher short-term rates. Also factor in potential delays that could impact your storage timeline.
Is climate controlled storage necessary?
Here are some guidelines on when climate controlled storage makes sense:
– You live in an extreme climate with very high or low temperatures and humidity
– You are storing items prone to damage like wood furniture, artwork, electronics, musical instruments, fabric/leather furniture, photos, books, important documents, film, or videotapes
– Temperature and humidity control is recommended by the manufacturer of items you’re storing
– You want extra protection for items of high monetary or sentimental value
– Avoid it for everyday household goods if these conditions do not apply to keep costs down.
Getting quotes for both climate controlled and standard units can help you decide if the added cost will be worthwhile for your specific belongings.
Conclusion
Storage costs vary widely based on your specific needs – like unit size required, length of storage, climate control, and location. Working within your budget while still protecting your belongings requires researching costs and thoughtfully evaluating what features you can really go without. Taking inventory and thinking through how long you realistically need storage locked in can help optimize the right storage situation for your particular situation while avoiding excess expenses.