Choosing the Right Self Storage: What to Know Before You Rent

At Bigger Garage Self-Storage – US 31 South, we’ve worked with people from all walks of life who need extra space for different reasons. Some people come to us during a move, while others need a place for seasonal items, and many want a safe spot for belongings that no longer fit at home. Over time, we’ve learned that finding an affordable storage option that is both secure and convenient makes all the difference.

Why People Choose a Self Storage Unit

Life changes quickly, and space often becomes a challenge. When families move into a new house, students head home for the summer, or businesses run out of room for documents and equipment, having a reliable self storage unit can save a lot of stress. Instead of crowding your garage, basement, or office, storage gives you breathing room while keeping everything safe.

We’ve seen many people treat their storage unit like an extension of their home or office. For instance, small business owners often use units to hold extra stock or supplies. Parents store their children’s furniture when kids leave for university. Outdoor hobby lovers keep bikes, kayaks, or camping gear safe until they’re ready for the next trip. In each case, storage provides flexibility.

What Makes Storage Affordable

When people search for affordable storage, they often focus on the monthly price. While cost matters, it’s not the only factor. Value comes from choosing the right size, security features, and location. Renting a unit that’s too big can mean paying for space you don’t use, while a unit that’s too small leaves you frustrated. We always suggest making a list of what you plan to store and then matching it with the correct unit size.

Security is another part of affordability that many overlook. A low price won’t feel like a good deal if your items aren’t safe. That’s why we focus on well-lit areas, gated access, and proper surveillance. A secure unit gives peace of mind, which is priceless.

How to Choose the Right Unit Size

Picking the right self-storage unit size can seem confusing, but a little planning helps.

• A small unit, about the size of a walk-in closet, works well for boxes, seasonal decorations, or a few pieces of small furniture.
• Medium-sized units are perfect for apartment contents or business inventory.
• Large units can hold the contents of a whole house, including appliances and bigger furniture.

We always recommend visualising the space by thinking about how you would pack a moving truck. If you need a small truck, then a small unit is usually enough. For larger homes, a bigger space makes sense.

Keeping Costs Under Control

One of the best ways to keep your storage costs reasonable is by staying organised. Using sturdy boxes, labelling them clearly, and stacking items properly allows you to use the full height of the unit. This means you may not need as much square footage as you thought.

Another tip is to think about how often you’ll need to access your belongings. If you’ll be visiting regularly, consider leaving a walkway in the middle of your unit to make it easier to reach items. This prevents the need for frequent reshuffling, saving both time and energy.

Why Location Matters

Convenience is often overlooked when choosing storage. Driving across town every time you need something can become tiring. A storage facility that’s close to home or on your daily route is worth considering, even if the price is slightly higher. In the long run, saving time and fuel often balances the cost.

Final Thoughts

For us, storage is not just about offering space—it’s about helping people simplify their lives. Choosing affordable storage that fits your needs, feels secure, and offers convenience makes the process stress-free. A self-storage unit should work like an extension of your home or business, giving you room to breathe without breaking your budget.

At Bigger Garage Self-Storage – US 31 South, our focus has always been on providing clean, secure, and flexible storage options. Whether you’re storing a few boxes or the contents of an entire house, we’re here to make the process simple and reliable.