7 Storage Unit Mistakes Everyone Makes When Renting
Jack had just moved into a new apartment, and his living room was overflowing with boxes. He thought renting a storage unit would be easy. It could help. But his small mistakes quickly turned this simple plan into extra bills, damaged items, and a lot of stress. Read on to learn seven common storage unit mistakes and how to avoid them.
7 Storage Unit Mistakes to Avoid for Stress-Free Renting: Explained
1. Choose the Right Size
Picking the wrong unit size is a common mistake. Guessing how much space is needed often leads to one of two problems. Either the unit is too small and things get crammed, or it is too large and money gets wasted.
Measure big items first. Make a quick inventory. Use online size guides or ask the facility staff for help. Leave space for an aisle so boxes can be reached. Use vertical space with shelves to avoid overpaying for square footage.
2. Inspect the Facility Before Signing
The cheapest or closest unit is not always the best. Visit the facility in person before signing. Check gate hours, lighting, and locks. Look for CCTV cameras and clear sight lines.
Read customer reviews. Ask about pest control and cleaning schedules. Confirm access rules. Some facilities may limit access at night or on weekends. Know the site’s policies before committing.
3. Consider Climate Control
Not every item can handle extreme heat or dampness. Wood, leather, photographs, paper, and electronics can warp, fade, or grow mold. If items are sensitive to humidity or temperature swings, choose a climate-controlled unit.
Climate control keeps the temperature and humidity steadier. It costs more. But it can save money if sentimental or valuable items are stored for a long time.
4. Do Not Store Prohibited or Hazardous Items
Storage units are not a catch-all. Many items are banned for safety or legal reasons. Common no-go items include fuel, flammable liquids, explosives, and hazardous chemicals. Perishable food, live plants, and some batteries (like fuel-containing or wet/lead-acid ones) are usually not allowed either.
Storing such items can lead to fines, immediate eviction, or worse—fire and contamination. Read the facility’s rules and local laws. When in doubt, ask the manager.
5. Confirm Insurance and Liability Terms
Many renters assume the facility will cover theft or damage. That is not always true. Storage agreements often limit facility liability. Insurance rules vary by provider.
Check existing renter’s or homeowner’s insurance. Many policies offer some off-site coverage, but with limits. Ask the insurer how much is covered for items in storage. If coverage is not enough, consider buying specific storage insurance.
Take photos of high-value items before moving them into storage. Keep a dated inventory. These steps help with any future claims.
6. Pack and Label with Care
Rushed packing leads to broken items. Use strong boxes and the right padding. Wrap furniture and fragile items. Keep boxes off the floor. Pallets or shelving reduce the risk of moisture.
Label every box on at least two sides. Write a brief list of contents on the label. Use a simple numbering system tied to an inventory sheet. Put frequently needed items near the front for easy access.
A central aisle makes retrieving things fast. Stacking heavy boxes on the bottom prevents crushing. Put lighter boxes on top and fragile items in the middle.
7. Avoid Turning the Unit into Long-Term Clutter
A unit rented for a short time often becomes a long-term storage space. Items pile up and are forgotten. The monthly bill keeps coming. Belongings can degrade or lose value.
Set review dates. Every three to six months, check what is still needed. Ask a simple question for each item: would this be bought again today? Sell, donate, or recycle what is not needed.
If unsure about long-term needs, rent month-to-month (if allowed) rather than signing a long contract. Short rentals make it easier to trim down later.
Long-Term vs. Short-Term Storage: What’s Best for You?
Summary: Quick Checklist Before Signing
Measure the items to store.
Visit and inspect the facility.
Ask about access hours and security.
Confirm pest control and climate options.
Read the rental agreement closely.
Verify insurance coverage or buy storage insurance.
Photograph valuable items and keep an inventory.
Label boxes clearly and leave an aisle.
Conclusion: Plan a Little, Save a Lot
A good storage experience starts with a little planning. Choosing the right size, checking the facility, and packing well prevent most problems. Insurance, climate control, and clear rules matter. A short review routine keeps costs down and items useful.
Need a simple next step? Make a short inventory today. Measure the largest item. That small work can stop a common storage unit mistake before it starts.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What is the most common mistake when renting a storage unit?
One of the most common mistakes is picking the wrong size. A small unit makes it hard to fit everything, and items can get damaged. A large unit wastes money because the extra space stays empty. To avoid this, measure your large items, write a quick list of what you will store, and ask the facility staff which size fits best. Learn more here.
2. Why does climate control matter?
Skipping climate control is another common mistake. Heat, cold, and damp air can ruin wood, leather, photos, papers, and electronics. A climate-controlled unit keeps the air steady and safe for these things. It costs more but saves money in the long run if important items are stored.
3. What items should you not put in a storage unit?
Do not put fuel, propane, fireworks, or chemicals in a unit. Do not store food, live plants, or animals either. These can be dangerous, cause fires, or bring pests. Always check the facility’s rules for banned items. Learn more here.
4. Does the storage company pay for theft or damage?
Most storage companies do not cover theft or damage. The contract often says they are not responsible. To stay safe, check your home or renter’s insurance. Some plans cover storage, but not all. If not, buy storage insurance. Take photos and keep a list of what you store.
5. How can I keep my storage unit organized?
Use strong boxes and stack heavy ones on the bottom. Label every box on two sides so you can see what’s inside. Keep a list of all items stored. Leave a small path in the middle so you can reach things easily. Shelves and pallets help keep boxes safe and dry. Learn more about packing here.