Looking for a storage facility because of too much stuff? To make it easier, here are some handy hintsto help you estimate how much storage space you'll need.
What do you plan to store?
It's futile to seek the help of an adviser if you don't have a clear idea of exactly what you need to store. Therefore, you should ask yourself:
- Are you storing the contents of one room, or several?
- Are there boxes? If so, determine the number boxes you have and note their dimensions.
- Are the items heavy or fragile? Can they be dismantled? This will help determine how the boxes will be stacked and if you need extra space for breakable items.
- Will you need and have regular access to the unit? For example, to distribute items from an estate following a death. If this is the case, plan to leave space to circulate in order to quickly find the items you need, when you need them.
Standard dimensions
Most storage facilities will give you a good idea of volume capacity by using examples of what a unit can hold according to its dimensions. The most common examples include:
- 5 X 5 (25 square feet): good for small items, a few boxes, books and very personal belongings
- 5 x 10 (50 square feet): about the equivalent of a small bedroom in a house
- 10 x 10 (100 square feet): can hold contents from a large 3 ½- or small 4 ½-room apartment, a motorcycle, snowmobile, or even an ATV
- 10 X 15 (150 square feet): large enough to hold a car or the equivalent of a large 4 ½- or small 5 ½-room apartment
- 10 X 20 (200 square feet): suitable to accommodate a van, or a large 5 ½- or small 6 ½-room apartment
- 10 X 30 (300 square feet): perfect for an entire house, yet also ideal for commercial use
*Note: Some companies also indicate the approximate number of extra boxes that can be stored along with furniture.
Online estimation tools
Many companies now provide potential customers with an online tool to estimate the space they will need and the applicable rate for storage. These sites allow you select from different categories (beds, appliances, couches, tables, accessories, electronics) of items to store.
After you're finished, you can print the list and the size of the recommended unit.This will help you to compare the prices and services of other companies for a unit of the same size.
Tips for storage newcomers
Making the most of rented storage space is simple and easy.
- Maximize storage by stacking boxes of equal size up to the ceiling, from heaviest to the lightest. Leave clearance at the top!
- Always leave a space between your furniture and walls of the unit for air circulation.
- Dismantle any furniture you can to save space.
- Place a sofa flat, never on its side, as the structure may break or the upholstery get damaged.
- Fill an empty refrigerator with small boxes or items to maximize space. Likewise with other "empty" appliances, such as a dryer.
By estimating how much storage space you'll need before you sign a contract, you avoid the risk of having (and paying for) too much space you don't need. These hints, and some shopping around, are key to finding a storage space that suits your needs.
