One thing that may deter people from renting a self-storage unit is the belief that all units are the same size. Indeed, if you were to drive past a storage facility you may find that all the unit doors appear uniform. If you have surplus to storage but feel you may spend too much on wasted space, you may be reluctant to rent. In truth, reputable storage facilities offer units in a variety of sizes. Some are smaller than others and priced accordingly, and if you have a good grasp on what you plan to store you can find the right-sized space.
Before you hand over your credit card and assume a monthly payment, however, there are steps you need to take:
Assess exactly what is going into storage and put it all together in one space. You may want to take a picture or two and measure the mass so you will have an idea of the type of space you need.
Compile a list of local storage facilities and research pricing and available units. You might find that while the business closest to you is a simple commute, another facility may be less expensive and offer better perks. Take everything into consideration when you make your choice.
One thing to consider when renting units, especially smaller spaces, is ceiling height. Some units may be considered more like crawl spaces where you only have so much room to fit your belongings, while larger units allow you to stack boxes up to nine feet. As you research your options, take note of dimensions and adjust your stuff as necessary to make sure everything fits.
For a quick rule of thumb guide to storage, here follows a listing of the more common unit sizes and what they typically hold:
Small 5x5x4 or x6 (about 25 square feet) – A unit this small could hold to up 35 standard file boxes, or a combination of boxes and a chair and/or table. Watch the ceilings!
Small 5×10 (about 50 square feet) – You can put as many as 50 file boxes in this space, or a selection of small furniture, a sofa or shelving, or bicycles.
Small to Medium 5×15 (about 75 square feet) – This unit will be longer, allowing you to store a sofa and some larger furniture. You can also stow away bicycles or a motorcycle.
Medium 10×10 (about 100 – 150 square feet) – If you need to stow the contents of an entire room, this size may be right for you.
Large 10 x 20 (200 square feet) – This is the size of a one car garage.
Extra Large 20 x 20 (400 square feet and larger) – This can hold an entire home’s worth of furniture or the inventory of a small business
Some facilities offer larger units that let you store a car or a boat if necessary. If you don’t need that much space, however, research smaller spaces and find the best deal.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathryn_Lively
Bast Storage offers over 60 different unit sizes for your convenience, so you do not feel like you are paying for extra space. The walls on our units are 10ft high so there is plenty of room to stack. We offer units for personal effects, vendors, as well as vehicle spaces.