The Ultimate Guide to Choosing a Storage Unit
What to Know Before Choosing a Storage Unit
Choosing the right storage unit can feel overwhelming. So many sizes, options, and facilities to compare. The good news? With a little guidance (and the right moving company), it doesn’t have to be complicated. Here’s a simple, step-by-step breakdown to help you confidently choose the best storage unit for your needs
Step One: Determine the Right Storage Size
The first step is figuring out how much space you actually need. This is where many people get stuck. Guessing can lead to renting a unit that’s too small (yikes) or paying for space you don’t need.
At Bulldogs Moving Company, we take the guesswork out of it for you.
During your estimate, whether virtual or in person, our team calculates the total volume of your items using a moving industry method called cubic weight. This allows us to accurately assess how much space your furniture and possessions will require.
We also factor in how you want your items stored:
- Prefer items spread out for easy access? That may require a slightly larger unit.
- Okay with stacking to save space and cost? We can plan efficiently for that too.
By combining volume and personal preference, we recommend the right-sized unit so everything fits safely. No last minute scrambling or surprises.
Step Two: Climate-Controlled vs. Non-Climate-Controlled Storage
Not all storage units are created equal, and choosing the right type can make a big difference in protecting your possessions.
Climate-Controlled Storage Units
Climate-controlled units maintain consistent temperature and humidity levels, helping protect your items from common forms of damage, including:
- Warping or cracking (especially wood furniture)
- Mold and mildew
- Damage caused by extreme heat or cold
These units are ideal for storing:
- Wooden furniture
- Antiques
- Upholstered furniture
- Electronics
- Items being stored long-term
Non-Climate-Controlled Storage Units
Non-climate-controlled units are typically more budget-friendly and are best suited for items that can handle environmental changes. They work well for:
- Outdoor furniture
- Garage or shed items
- Tools and weather-resistant materials
- Short-term storage needs
While non-climate-controlled units can be a great option in certain situations, climate-controlled storage is often worth the investment if your belongings are valuable, sensitive, or being stored for an extended period.
Protecting Your Items in a Storage Unit
When placing items into a storage unit, it’s important to protect furniture and fragile belongings from scratches, dust, and shifting during the move. While our team uses professional moving blankets during the move, we typically cannot leave those blankets in storage units.
If you would like items to remain covered while in storage, we recommend providing protective materials such as old towels, sheets, blankets, or moving blankets. These can be wrapped around furniture, frames, and other delicate items to add an extra layer of protection.
In some cases, we may have blankets available for purchase, but availability is not guaranteed. Bringing your own materials is the best way to ensure your items stay well protected while in storage
Step Three: Research, Research, Research!
Choosing a storage facility deserves the same care as choosing a moving company. Beyond just comparing prices, take time to evaluate the facility itself and how well it will protect your belongings.
When researching, consider:
- Security: Gated entry, surveillance cameras, and individual unit locks
- Condition of the facility: Clean units, proper pest control, and overall maintenance
- Reputation: Customer reviews that speak to reliability, staff support, and climate control
- Accessibility: Convenient location, access hours, and ease of entry
- Credibility: A licensed, insured facility with a solid local reputation
Doing this upfront helps ensure your possessions are stored safely, securely, and without unexpected issues down the road.
Important Billing Questions to Ask
Understanding the fine print can save you from unexpected costs later. Before committing, ask:
- Are there any one-time fees at move-in or move-out?
- Is insurance required, and can you use your own homeowner’s or renter’s policy?
- If you move out mid-month, is rent prorated, or charged for the full month?
- Is there a minimum rental period?
- Do prices vary by floor level, unit location, or access type?
Taking the time to ask these questions upfront ensures you choose a storage facility that fits your needs, your timeline, and your budget without scrambling and surprises.
Step Four: Request the Best Unit (Yes, It Matters!)
Not all storage units within a facility offer the same level of convenience, and choosing wisely can save you time and money.
When possible, look for:
Drive-up access: Allows you to park close to the unit for faster loading and unloading
First-floor indoor units: Avoid stairs or elevators when possible
Proximity to loading doors: Shorter distances mean quicker moves and less labor time
Even though Bulldogs Moving can move you into any unit, selecting a more accessible, premium location within the facility can make a noticeable difference in efficiency and cost when moving.
Let Bulldogs Handle the Heavy Lifting
From estimating the right unit size to moving your items in with care, Bulldogs Moving is here to help every step of the way. Whether you’re storing short-term or long-term, we’ll help you make the smartest choice to keep your belongings safe—and our team can handle the packing to ensure everything is packed properly from the start.
Schedule a quote to talk about what size storage would be best for your possessions.