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Compare storage options

Transform your living space into a neat, organized oasis.

Kimberly Ellis
Kimberly Ellis

&

Alexandra Plesa
Alexandra Plesa

Updated

Fact checked

Our top pick: MakeSpace

MakeSpace logo
  • Prices start at $69/month
  • App has photo inventory of your stuff
  • Hire professionals to pack and store for you
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If you’re looking to free up space in your home, you’d want to find a solution that can safely store your belongings.

Our guide covers what storage options are available, costs and storage tips that could come in handy. And we looked into several top storage solutions to give you an idea of a service that might fit your storage needs.

Compare storage companies online

Whether you’re looking for self storage or mobile storage, compare options to find the best one for you:

NameStorage typeClimate-controlled unit availableVehicle storagePickup and delivery available
MakeSpaceSelf-storage with pickup and deliveryYesNoYesGet a quote from MakeSpace
National Self StorageSelf-storageYesYesNo
PODSMobile storageNoNoYes
1800 Pack RatMobile storageYesNoYes

What storage options are available to me?

When it comes to storage, there are generally three main options available.

Self-storage

Self-storage is a good solution if you have a lot of stuff to store – like when you need to clear up your entire garage or store large items like old furniture. You’ll rent a storage unit in a private facility, such as a garage lockup. Pack up your stuff, hop in your car and deposit your belongings into your secure unit.

Mobile storage

Mobile storage is like self-storage, but instead of driving to a facility, the storage unit comes to you. The mobile storage company will deliver a unit to your home at a scheduled time, and you can pack and load the container at your leisure.

You then have the option of keeping the unit on your property or scheduling a time for the company to pick up the unit and transporting it to one of their storage facilities.

Home storage

You don’t have to have watched popular shows like The Home EditorTidying Up with Marie Kondo to know that there are endless home storage solutions you can invest in.

If you have space but need help organizing and storing, you can utilize shelving, closets, tubs and bins to declutter your home on various budgets.

What is included in a storage service?

It depends on the type of storage you want. Mobile storage services offer delivery and pickup of the storage unit. For self-storage, you have to drive the items to the unit yourself, which may involve hiring movers or a truck.

Storage services might include:

  • Short and long-term plans
  • 24/7 access to your storage unit
  • Climate control
  • Vehicle, caravan or boat storage
  • Individually alarmed doors

How much does storage cost?

Here’s an idea of what each storage solution might run you:

  • Self-storage. A storage unit can cost $50 to $200 per month, depending on the size, location, and whether the unit is climate-controlled.
  • Mobile storage. Prices for a unit typically start at around $200 per month, excluding delivery and pickup fees.
  • Home storage. You can pay anything from a couple of bucks for a container to hundreds of dollars or more for a spacious closet.

How can I compare storage services?

When researching local storage services, read the fine print to find out what’s included in the service. Here are some things to check:

  • Location. Make sure you have easy access to your unit.
  • Security. See what types of security measures the company employs.
  • Storage types. Based on what items you need to store, including climate-control and convenient drive-up storage.
  • Restrictions. Many companies don’t accept items like perishable food, explosives and plants.
  • Promotions and discounts. After all, saving a few dollars never hurts.
  • Reviews. See what others are saying about the company.

Pros and cons of storage services

Check out these advantages and drawbacks of storage.

  • Frees up space in your home
  • Peace of mind that your items are secure
  • Access to your belongings whenever needed
  • Short-term and long-term options available
  • Can be expensive
  • Unless you get a climate-controlled unit, your items will be subjected to heat, cold and humidity
  • Need to keep detailed inventory lists to keep track of what items you have tucked away

    What to consider when booking a storage unit

    There are three main factors to take into consideration when choosing a storage solution:

    • Value. Are the items actually worth storing in the long run?
    • Cost. Does your budget cover the total expense, including delivery and pickup fees?
    • Space. How much storage space are you going to need now and in the future?

    Do I need to be there when my items are picked up for storage?

    Usually, yes. If you opt for mobile storage, the unit comes to you, and you’ll need to load it yourself. For self-storage, you generally take your belongings to your storage unit.

    How should I prepare my items for storage?

    Packing can be a tricky and time-consuming business. Here are a few storage pointers:

    • Make a list of all the items you need to store.
    • Clean and dry all items to prevent mildew and mold.
    • Use labeled boxes or clear bins to avoid confusion. And keep a list of inventory at home for quick reference.
    • Safeguard fragile items and appliances with blankets or bubble wrap.
    • Disassemble large items like furniture to save on space.
    • Treat upholstery and condition leather furniture before storing to keep it in pristine condition.

    Bottom line

    Finding the right storage option for you can take some research, but a quality solution may be worth the investment. Look for a storage service that meets your needs and enables you to streamline your home and maximize your space.

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