How Contractors Benefit from Self-Storage

Posted on July 25, 2024 by John McCoy

This is a great time to work in the trades. Demand is at historic levels, and the supply of competent tradesmen is low. However, the overhead of owning a contracting company can be overwhelming, especially if you are an independent contractor not looking to scale up. You could use your garage, but then it would probably be completely full of your stuff, and your wife’s Audi won’t fit. That’s a no-go.

Instead, why not go with a self-storage unit from My Storage Box?

A self-storage unit is the best way to keep your overhead low as your business grows, or if it is already growing, a self-storage unit is a great way to provide overflow space.

Here’s our take on self-storage for contractors.

Benefits of Self-Storage for Contractors

Self-storage is a great place to store all kinds of odds and ends for everyone, but it might be especially useful for contractors. Contractors often end up with thousands of dollars worth of tools and equipment, and sometimes, keeping it in the truck or a trailer isn’t the best option.

For instance, sometimes there just isn’t space or the need to carry a table saw, a sliding miter saw, and other large, high-dollar tools with you, but you need somewhere to keep them secure.

It’s a Convenient and Secure Storage Space

The great thing about self-storage is that it is extremely secure, with multiple lines of defense against intrusion, and it is available at all hours of the day or night.

When you finish a late night on the job site, you can drop off your extra tools at our storage units at 10:45 pm without any hassle. Got an early job to get to? Grab your gear at 0500 and head out. We don’t mind.

Store Tools, Supplies, and More

Your livelihood is wrapped up in your tools.

Keep your items safe and organized in our storage units instead of your truck. Trucks and vans are notoriously easy to break into, and you don’t want to make it any easier than you have to for thieves to get at your hard-earned equipment.

My Storage Box is a fully fenced facility with a secure, automated gate system. With a good padlock, your tools are safe and sound in our facilities.

Also, we use high-strength shipping containers for our self-storage units. These are made to withstand the worst weather that the open oceans can throw at them, so we know they can stand up to the volatile weather patterns of Oklahoma and Kansas!

How to Choose the Right Self-Storage Unit

Alright, so you’ve made up your mind to rent a storage unit for your contracting business. Awesome! But how do you know what you need?

It’s not just about cost; it’s about making sure you get what you really need. If you are keeping your tools in there, you need to know that you can get them whenever you need them and that they will be safe and sound when you need to pull them out and use them.

Consider Your Needs

So, what are your needs as a contractor? Are you thinking that you will keep your whole stash of large power tools in storage and pull them out when you need them, or do you just need a smaller unit for odds and ends?

What Kind of Items Are You Storing?

We know that depending on what kind of work you do, you are holding onto thousands of dollars worth of tools at any given time. But it’s probably not just tools. You might have all kinds of parts in your stock as well, like spare Romex, electrical panels, HVAC components, and so on.

Those items add time, both in terms of cost and space, which are valuable commodities.

Frequency of access

How often will you need access? We offer 24/7 access at My Storage Box, so no matter what schedule you keep, you can access your tools, building materials, or whatever you have stored whenever you need it. And no, there is no cap on how many times you can get in.

Budget

My Storage Box maintains a competitive price point while offering the most secure storage option on the market.

Keep up to date with our pricing page to monitor affordability and availability. Act quickly, as our units go fast.

Tips for Maximizing Self-Storage Benefits

If you’ve got a lot of stuff to store for your contracting business, you want to make sure you can actually find what you are looking for. As an avid DIYer, most of my projects consist of looking for the right hardware or tools for two hours, and then doing the project.

Don’t be like me.

Label and Organize Items

First and foremost, label your stuff. If you have a bunch of tool bags, through some painter’s tape on the handles and use a Sharpie to mark what is in them. Use different bags for different types of projects, i.e., a plumbing tool pouch, one for electrical, and so on.

Five-gallon buckets are another great way to do this, especially if you use Bucket Boss-type organizers, which turn regular buckets into multi-tiered storage units for hardware, tools, or whatever. They are also a great way to turn your buckets into specialized tool caddies. Got a job? Grab the bucket that corresponds to the job you are working on and hit it! This has been my go-to method for a few years, and it works great.

Use Shelves and Racks

Portable shelves and storage racks are a great way to extend the usefulness of a storage unit for your business. You can set them up quickly, store your extra materials, tools, and other miscellaneous stuff on them, and actually see what you have to work with. No more digging through the working fan for that blower motor you know is in there somewhere.

Take Inventory Regularly

Finally, take and keep a regular inventory of your storage unit. First, it is for security, so you know that it is all secure and what you put in here stays in here. Second, it is so you know exactly what is going in and out for your jobs. Keeping your materials in storage is a great way to know exactly what your supplies are and what you need to buy up on.

Parting Thoughts

Self-storage is a great option for lots of different activities, from moving to small business storage. We are proud to offer one of the best options to streamline your contractor business by getting you set up with the storage you need, with the access you’ve got to have.

Get in tough with My Storage Box to see which storage solution is best for you, or you can go ahead and reserve a storage unit now!

9 Surprisingly Simple Ways To Organize Your Storage Unit

Posted on July 18, 2024 by John McCoy

Organizing a storage unit might not seem like a top priority when it comes to self-storage, but trust us, it’s more important than you think. The most obvious reason is that you want to maximize your storage space and avoid paying for extra space you don’t need. Additionally, a well-organized storage unit saves you the frustration of digging through piles of items to find what you need. By keeping things tidy, you ensure your things are easily accessible whenever you need them.

And hey, your future self will thank you for taking the time to make a plan for organizing your storage unit. We’ve got your back! Check out these nine easy ways to get your storage space in perfect order.

9 Tips for Organizing Your Storage Unit Like a Pro

Organizing a storage unit isn’t as complicated as you may think now. It all boils down to simple preparation. Here are nine tips for effective organization to help you get started.

1. Label Your Boxes Well

Starting off strong, one of the simplest yet surprisingly effective ways to organize your storage unit is by labeling your boxes.

You might think you’ll remember all the contents of each box, but experience shows that after a while, people tend to forget minor details (or, in this case, the contents of unmarked boxes). It’s unlikely you’ll recall where you packed your books or old photos in a month, let alone longer.

Make sure you label your boxes thoroughly—on the top and at least on one side. Position the label facing forward so it’s visible upon entry. Include the box number, the room it’s from, and a detailed list of contents.

The future ‘you’ will thank you for sparing unnecessary stress when searching for specific items. Detailed labels make a world of difference and can save you a lot of time and effort.

2. Create a List of All Inventory

Additionally, consider creating a master inventory list. Along with labeling your boxes, a master list will help you find your things much more quickly and easily. We understand this might sound like a lot of work, but trust us, it takes far less time to organize your unit beforehand than to search chaotically through your storage space later on.

Number each box and then write down the corresponding number on your list along with a detailed description of its contents. This way, you can easily refer to your list when needed.

3. Store Items Inside Clear Bins

Another way to keep your storage unit organized is to store your items inside clear plastic bins instead of cardboard boxes. This way, you’ll see what’s inside each box and keep track of your stuff more easily. You won’t have to dig through your storage unit to find that pair of boots or your school yearbook, but you’ll know right off the bat which bin to open.

Clear plastic bins also offer better protection against pests and moisture, so there’s an added benefit for you!

4. Disassemble Furniture and Store Items Upright

Consider disassembling furniture to maximize space in your storage unit and organize it more efficiently. For instance, you can take apart bulky items like bed frames and headboards, as well as disassemble table legs. This will make them easier to pack but also more stable.

We also recommend strategically positioning all your heavy boxes for both stability and better use of space. Store heavy items vertically such as sofas, dressers, and bookshelves towards the back of your storage unit. When you store them upright or on the side, you’ll open up more floor space for other things in your self storage.

5. Store Heavy Stuff on the Bottom and Lighter Stuff on Top

It’s all about strategic thinking when organizing storage units. Careful preparation will save you a lot of time and struggle later on, so make sure you’re smart about it. Before you start piling up your boxes and risking turning your unit into a mess, think about how you’re going to store your heavy things.

Experience has shown that one of the best storage solutions is to place heavy boxes at the bottom and lighter items on top. It’s a safer, more practical, and overall more efficient storage solution that will help you find your stored items more easily later on. It also helps protect your fragile items and allows easy access to your storage unit.

6. Remember to Go Vertical

We can’t stress enough the importance of utilizing vertical space in storage units. So, when organizing your storage unit, remember to go vertical with your items. Stack boxes high and furniture upright. In case you have some shelving units, don’t let it go to waste. Use those shelves or stacking boxes to create extra storage space for your things.

You can also consider adding wire shelving or hanging shelves to take advantage of vertical space even further. This will allow you to stack smaller boxes or fragile items off the floor, keeping your unit neat and easily accessible.

7. Place Items You Need More Frequently Toward the Front

This one may sound obvious, but many people overlook it. But we’re here to remind you!

Make sure you remember to put items you plan to use more frequently toward the front of the storage unit when you’re stacking items. It will make your life much easier and simpler, but also help you avoid the frustration of having to dig through everything just to find that one item.

To give you a general idea, these are the items you might need more frequently than others:

Seasonal items and clothing like heavy coats, boots, hats, and swimsuits
Hobby supplies such as crafting, painting, or camping gear
Baby and toddler items like strollers, cribs, and toys
Holiday decorations
Tools like screwdrivers or hammers that you might need for household repairs

8. Create a Center Aisle

If you don’t want your storage unit to look like a maze, you may want to consider creating a center aisle. This simple yet effective organizational hack can make all the difference when you’re trying to find or retrieve items quickly and efficiently. So, if possible, create a clear path down the center of your storage unit for easy access and flexibility.

9. Use the Right Packing Materials

Finally, remember to use the right packing materials for your stuff. It helps organize a storage unit by ensuring that items are stored safely, efficiently, and systematically. Your things will be protected and are more likely to remain in good condition while in storage. Plus, it’s much easier to pack things when they’re wrapped in bubble wrap or placed in sturdy boxes.

Clear bins are not the only tool that can help you be organized with your stuff. You can also take advantage of vacuum-sealed bags, silica gel packets, mattress covers, labeling supplies like markers and tape, etc.

How to Pick the Best Storage Unit Size for Your Needs

When it comes to organizing storage units, it’s not just about making the most out of your space. It’s also about picking the right storage unit for your needs. This is where size truly matters.

If you’re not sure how to choose the right size, we’d like to help out. Here are our key tips for selecting a storage unit:

Identify the main purpose of the storage unit – Determine whether you need your unit for storing personal belongings, business items, or a combination of these;
Make a preliminary list of items – Create a list of everything you’re planning to store and categorize them by size to estimate how much space you’ll need;
Estimate the size and dimensions – Measure the exact dimensions of your largest items and estimate the total cubic footage;
When in doubt, choose a bigger storage unit – If you’re unsure, it’s always wiser to go one size bigger and opt for a slightly larger unit;
Understand storage unit dimensions – Familiarize yourself with common storage unit sizes and understand how much they can hold.

In general, the rule of thumb is the following:

Unit Size	Dimensions	Storing capacity
Small units	5’x5′ to 5’x10′ feet	Good for storing boxes, small furniture, seasonal items
Medium units	10’x10′ to 10’x15′ feet	Can fit the contents of a one-bedroom apartment
Large units	10’x20′ feet and larger	Ideal for multi-bedroom homes, large furniture, or vehicles

Final Thoughts

To rent the right size storage unit for your needs, it’s essential to thoroughly research what top storage facilities offer and then to organize your belongings properly.

If you’re still in the process of finding a reliable storage service provider in your area, check out My Storage Box in Ponca City, Oklahoma. We offer affordable, easy access, and secure storage units in various sizes to meet your specific needs. You can contact us 24/7, 7 days a week, and our friendly staff will be happy to assist you in finding the right storage unit for your belongings!

Should You Avoid Renting Self-Storage Units? Absolutely Not.

Posted on July 18, 2024 by John McCoy

Self-storage units come in handy when you want to declutter your home, store furniture while you’re moving, or downsize your living space. But are storage units safe?

This is just one of the common concerns people have when thinking about renting storage spaces. These kinds of worries tend to make people want to avoid renting storage units altogether, which is, if you ask us, totally unnecessary.

Today, we’re here to tell you all you want to know about self-storage security (concerns and myths) and help you make the right decision. Let’s dive in!

Most Common Concerns About Storage Safety

We get it—you want all the facts before you consider renting a self-storage unit. Perfectly understandable! Understanding the potential risks and concerns you may expose yourself to is a crucial part of the whole process. So, let’s see what they are.

Concern #1 Are Storage Units Safe?

One of the most common questions storage users have is: should I avoid renting self-storage units?

Absolutely not. And here’s why.

Your stuff is usually safe and sound in a storage unit because most modern storage facilities provide high security and are well-equipped to prevent theft, burglaries, and damage.

In fact, your stuff can be even more secure in a storage unit than in your home, but again, this depends on the self-storage facility.

Security is a top concern in the self-storage industry. That’s why most storage businesses put a lot of effort into keeping their facilities safe from break-ins and less prone to damage, ensuring the peace of mind of their customers.

Concern #2 Will My Stuff Get Ruined in a Storage Unit?

Another common concern is whether stored belongings are vulnerable to rain damage, mold, mildew, fire hazards, etc. It’s natural to worry about these kinds of events, especially because they’re often out of our control.

Let’s consider rain for a moment. It can be a big problem, not just for your stored items but also for your home. When there’s structural damage to the property, it can seep into your belongings and cause serious damage from leaks, flooding, and moisture.

And moisture can be a big enemy to your stuff, even without heavy rainfall as it can create ideal conditions for mold and mildew to grow.

But fear not—most storage facilities go to great lengths to protect your items from environmental damage and pests.

If you choose a reliable storage provider and pack your stuff properly, your stuff is far less likely to get ruined by mold, fire hazards, or any other pesky hazards that might threaten it.

Concern #3 Will My Items Be Accessible?

You might also be concerned about whether you’ll have flexible access to your storage unit. That’s a valid question, and you’re certainly not the only one who feels that way.

Renting a storage space should make your life easier, not more complicated. That’s the entire point of storage facilities!

While storing items in self-storage won’t replicate the convenience of storing them in your own garage, you still want to make sure easy access without any hassle.

It all depends on the storage facility, so make sure you look for accessibility when exploring your options. The truth is most storage facilities offer flexible access hours. But it’s always wise to double check with the storage facility about their access policies and hours so that they match your schedule and needs.

The bottom line is accessibility concerns shouldn’t be the reason to avoid renting self-storage units.

The Facts About Storage Unit Safety

We’ve addressed the most common concerns about storage unit safety. Now, let’s talk facts!

Here’s why you should absolutely not avoid renting a self-storage unit for your belongings.

Advanced Security Measures

Self-storage units are not what they used to be. After all, we’re living in the digital age, which means modern tech is on our side when it comes to preventing theft and burglary.

So, the number one reason you shouldn’t dismiss self-storage units is definitely that most modern storage facilities have high-tech security systems, including surveillance cameras, electronic gate access, and on-site personnel.

If you think about it, your stuff is probably even safer in a storage facility than on your personal property.

Environmental Protection

Storage facilities often have climate-controlled units to protect belongings from extreme temperatures, humidity, and pests. This level of protection tremendously lowers the risk of infestation and damage to sensitive items such as wooden furniture, electronics, or other high-value items.

If you pack your things properly and choose a reliable storage unit, you won’t have to worry about irreversible damage from annoying pests or extreme weather conditions.

Accessibility and Convenience

Many storage providers offer flexible access hours and convenient locations, ensuring you can get to your items whenever you need them. It may not be quite like your own home, but you can certainly find a convenient storage unit that checks all your boxes. This flexibility makes storage solutions a practical way to reduce clutter at home and make your life more organized.

Insurance Options

Some storage facilities often offer insurance options to cover potential damage, loss, or theft of your stored belongings. But if not, you can also always buy this yourself from your insurance agent. This financial protection is crucial in case of unexpected events, further demonstrating that storing your stuff in a storage unit is an absolutely safe and reliable option.

What Can You Do to Keep Your Stuff Safe

On top of everything else we covered above, there’s another factor that plays a role in keeping your stuff as safe as possible: you.

That’s right—you can absolutely play a significant part in ensuring the safety of your belongings. Here are some proactive steps you can take:

Choose a Secure Facility

The best way to keep your belongings safe is to choose a secure storage unit. This means opting for a self-storage facility with advanced security measures such as security cameras, alarm systems, and other security features.

Some of the key security features to look for when you’re exploring storage solutions are the following:

Access control systems: This technology helps manage who enters and exits the storage facility. Each client receives a unique access code that adds extra security and prevents unauthorized access;
Well-lit facility: If the entire facility is well-lit, there’s a smaller risk of theft and break-ins. So, check if the storage unit of your choice has proper lighting or at least motion-activated sensor lighting;
Regular maintenance: A well-maintained facility will make you more comfortable when storing your belongings elsewhere. It shows that the company is serious about following security measures and keeping your property safe;
Digital surveillance: Surveillance cameras are the first line of defense when it comes to storage unit safety. They help deter potential thieves and identify unauthorized access, ensuring your stored items remain secure.

Pack Your Belongings Properly

If you’re packing your stuff for long-term storage, you may feel especially anxious about keeping them in good condition. But this is also a valid concern even if you’re planning to store items for a short amount of time.

Rest assured, it all boils down to proper preparation. Follow these steps:

Clean and dry your items properly to avoid mold
Check for food stains because they can also attract mold and other pests
Choose the right containers for your things to protect them against moisture (for example, use vacuum-sealed bags for clothing and acid-free boxes for books instead of cardboard boxes)
Add desiccators into your boxes to absorb moisture, keeping mold and mildew away
Consider using mold-preventative products to prevent mold growth

Visit Your Storage Unit Regularly

If ‘out of sight, out of mind’ doesn’t apply in your case, you might want to consider visiting your storage unit on a regular basis to ensure everything is in order. This is especially important if you have expensive items stored or you’ve opted for long-term storage.

Visiting regularly can also help keep your belongings in pristine condition because you can catch early signs of mold or mildew and do something to prevent serious damage. If possible, aim to visit once a month so that you can open the door, allow the air to circulate, and check your belongings.

Consider Insurance

Finally, if you want to feel extra safe about your stored belongings, you can consider insurance coverage.

Ask your insurance agent about your options, especially if you have valuable items in self-storage. They’ll help you understand whether insurance is necessary and discuss your best options with you. This can be the final piece of the puzzle to ensure your stuff is safe and sound.

Choose MyStorageBox for Your Storage Needs

As you can see, there’s no reason to let these concerns deter you from the convenience and benefits of self-storage.

With a reliable self-storage provider, you’ll get the best of both worlds: a decluttered home and peace of mind.

When looking for a trusted self-storage unit, look for factors that are the most important to you, such as high-quality access control systems, regular maintenance, or flexible access. You’ll find that finding the right partner for your storage needs is like a weight off your shoulders.

At MyStorageBox, we keep all our units extremely secure, fully fenced, and gated with keypad access so you can come and go as you please but also be confident your stuff is in safe hands.

If you’ve got any questions, call us for more details at (580) 300-3006!

Is On-Demand Storage A Passing Fad?

Posted on July 18, 2024 by John McCoy

On-demand storage might sound like an easy and practical solution for storing your extra belongings. The storage company comes right to your door to pick your stuff up and store it away—it sounds amazing, doesn’t it?

But not all that sparkles is gold.

That’s why today, we want to talk to you about the realities of on-demand storage, how it really works, and how it might not be the best call for your belongings. Let’s dive in!

What Is On-Demand Storage?

On-demand storage, also known as pick-up service or valet storage, is a business model in which companies offer to pick up, store, and deliver your items as needed. Some even offer packing services for an additional fee.

These storage services have disrupted the storage industry primarily due to the convenience and flexibility they offer to customers. It’s easy to understand why they became so popular when they first appeared on the market; in our instant gratification culture, we’re used to getting everything we want immediately. So, naturally, on-demand storage services fit perfectly into this lifestyle.

But is this truly the best solution for storing your items? Before we unpack this, let’s understand how these storage companies work.

How Does On-Demand Storage Work?

Here’s how on-demand storage services work:

The customer chooses a company and contacts them to inform them about how much stuff they need to leave at the warehouse storage;
A pick-up time is scheduled, and the lead time can be anything between one day and a week. Some companies may offer packing services for an additional fee or allow the customers to use their own bags and boxes. Pickup and packing fees differ among companies;
When the company arrives for pick-up, they will inventory and photograph the contents of each box and item;
Then, the storage containers are shipped to the warehouse space, which could be located in the same area or in another city;
Warehouse conditions are different for different storage companies. Some may have climate-controlled facilities, while others can’t guarantee the prevention of mold;
Monthly fees are arranged depending on the amount of stuff in storage units;
When retrieving items, customers need to schedule a delivery date and time. Whenever the customer needs anything from their storage space, the company delivers it upon request, typically for an additional fee.

As you can see, on-demand storage companies operate differently from traditional self-storage units. It provides a more hands-off approach, which can be convenient, but it’s not suitable for everyone.

That’s why it’s vital not to rush into a decision and carefully consider your storage needs and budget before opting for this option.

5 Reasons You Shouldn’t Use On-Demand Storage

Let’s take a closer look at some reasons why on-demand storage might not be the best choice for everyone.

They’re More Expensive

It’s important to note that on-demand storage services often come with added fees. The most distinctive difference between this business model and traditional storage companies is definitely the price.

While it’s true that valet storage services cater to our need to have things on demand, this convenience comes with a cost. Compared to traditional self-storage spaces, valet storage spaces typically have higher costs and even some unpredictable fees. For instance, there are often additional fees for pickup, delivery, and monthly storage. These can quickly add up, especially if you need frequent access to your stuff.

On-Demand Storage Isn’t as Convenient as It May Seem

The biggest perk that on-demand storage companies offer is convenience. But if you think about it, how convenient are these services really?

First of all, you need to schedule a date and time for pickup, which can be a week or more. Then, some companies have a minimum storage term of as long as 6 months or more. This means you’re obliged to pay even if you only need temporary storage.

Additionally, it’s not so convenient if you’re looking for long-term storage, especially when you need access to items that are stored remotely. Then you need to go through the hassle of arranging a delivery time and waiting for the delivery to happen.

When you have too much stuff in your house, and you’re looking for storage options, you want to ensure your items are stored somewhere safe where you can retrieve them whenever you need them. The last thing you want to do is burden yourself with more work and unnecessary stress.

You May Face Unexpected Fees

We can all agree that unpredictable costs are every customer’s nightmare. This is another compelling reason why you should avoid using on-demand storage services. Some facilities include additional pickup, delivery, and other hidden fees that can catch you off guard and disrupt your budget plans.

Stay cautious by reading the fine print and understanding all additional charges you may face. For example, pay attention if the company of your choice charges extra fees for storing heavier items that require more than one person to handle. There may be mandatory insurance fees as well, a one-time administrative fee for new accounts, or missed or late payment fees.

You Don’t Have Flexible Access to Your Belongings

Another significant drawback is the lack of flexible access to your belongings. You cannot visit the storage site to get stuff out yourself, but you have to rely on scheduled deliveries. This limits your flexibility, especially if you need to get something urgently from your storage containers.

It forces you to rely on scheduling and delivery dates that you need to coordinate well in advance with the service provider. If you’re the type to prefer to have easy access to your stuff, this kind of service may not be quite right for you, and you should opt for traditional self-storage services.

You’re Not the Only Person With a Key or Passcode

When it comes to storage units, safety and security are often the biggest concerns. This makes sense because, as a consumer, you want to store things in a safe place where you won’t have to worry about theft, mold, or fire hazards.

Well, storing items in an on-storage space may raise concerns about the risk of unauthorized access because you’re not the only person with a key or passcode to your storage containers. This is one of the main deal breakers when it comes to choosing between traditional self-storage and on-demand storage containers.

The MyStorageBox Advantage

So, is on-demand storage a passing fad? It’s up to you to decide which storage option makes you feel most at ease. After all, the goal is for your stuff to feel right at home!

MyStorageBox offers reliable self-storage services for anyone in need of extra space. If you’re a local in Ponca City, OK, you can count on our safe storage units for your belongings. We offer affordable, 24/7 access and secure storage units so your stuff stays safe and sound.

Our storage facility is secured by an automated gate, full perimeter fence, 24/7 video monitoring, and outdoor lighting. Whether you’re stashing seasonal gear, household goods, or business inventory, we’ve got sizes to fit your needs.

At MyStorageBox, we perfectly understand that convenience is key. That’s why our location is easy to get to and offers flexible rental terms. You can rent a unit for as short or as long as you need; no long-term commitment required.

Our friendly staff is here to help you pick the perfect storage solution and answer any questions you may have. Get in touch with us for more details at (580) 300-3006!

Your Ultimate Storage Unit Sizes Guide—2024

Posted on July 18, 2024 by John McCoy

Whether you’re decluttering your space, moving, or downsizing, storage units can be your most ideal option to store that extra stuff. But it’s not always easy to know what storage unit size you need. This is where we’d like to help you out!

In this article, we’re going to share the most common storage unit sizes and give you some tried-and-tested strategies for picking the right storage unit size for your needs. Now, let’s get started!

Storage Unit Sizes and Costs

Nowadays, there are many storage facilities you can choose from. But don’t worry! The standard unit sizes are roughly the same in all of them. Here are some typical self-storage unit sizes to help you understand how much space and budget you might need:

5’x10’ Storage Units

Storage space: 50 sq ft
Average cost: $40 – $100

5’x10’ storage units are considered small storage units and they provide around 50 square feet of space. They are large enough for the contents of a single bedroom or a small studio apartment, though it might be packed tight, so you may need to consider a slightly larger self-storage. Again, it all depends on your storage needs and how much stuff you need to store. The average cost of a storage unit depends on factors such as location, storage facility, or demand. But in general, the cost of 5’x10’ units typically ranges from $40 to $100 per month.

8’x10′ Storage Units

Storage space: 80 sq ft
Average cost: $60 – $150

8’x10′ storage units provide approximately 80 square feet of storage space, which is roughly equivalent to the size of a large walk-in closet. They are quite versatile, as they can accommodate items such as mattresses, box springs, and small furniture like nightstands, chairs, and drawers. These medium-sized units are ideal for storing seasonal items and providing extra space for households or businesses without requiring a large commitment. Their average cost is usually between $60 to $150 per month.

8’x20′ Storage Units

Storage space: 160 sq ft
Average cost: $100 – $250

8’x20′ storage units provide approximately 160 square feet of storage space. This is typically sufficient for storing items of a two-bedroom house. For example, you can comfortably store large appliances such as a fridge, washer, and dryer, along with three mattress sets, patio furniture, bookcases, couches, and assorted boxes. For these units, prices typically range from $100 to $250 per month.

8’x40′ Storage Units

Storage space: 320 sq ft
Average cost: $200 – $400

8’x40′ storage units offer 320 square feet of room and are perfect for homeowners or a small business. They can easily fit the contents of a three-to-four-bedroom house, including furniture like couches, armchairs, dining sets, appliances, entertainment units, bookcases, and multiple mattresses. When it comes to the average cost of 8’x40′ storage units, it can vary from $200 to $400 per month.

What Size Storage Unit Do I Need?

Now that you understand a little better the most common unit sizes, you might be wondering which one is the right one for you. Well, that depends on several factors. Our short step-by-step guide will help you quickly decide on what size storage space you need.

Step 1: Make a Detailed Inventory of Items

Before you start thinking about anything else, it’s important first to take an inventory of the items you plan to store. An even better idea is to write your list down so that it’s easier for you to refer back to it later or when you want to get your stuff back later on. Count how many boxes you have and jot that down as well. This inventory should cover all your stuff, from small items to bigger furniture pieces.

Step 2: Double-check your home storage options

Once you’ve figured out what you want to store, it might be a good idea to consider your existing home storage options. If you already have enough space in your garage, basement, or attic, you don’t have to opt for external storage solutions. At least not for all your belongings. You can be strategic about your self-storage and maximize the space you already have available.

Step 3: Measure Your Belongings

Then, it’s time to thoroughly measure your belongings before you choose a storage unit. Aim to get good measurements of length, width, and height for each item (or box) that you want to store. This will help you understand the square feet each item takes up so that you know what size storage unit you will need.

Here’s an example of how you can count how much space an item takes up. Just multiply its length (in feet) by its width (in feet). This gives you the area in square feet. For instance, if you have a rug that is 5 feet long and 4 feet wide, you multiply the length (5 feet) by the width (4 feet), and you get 20 square feet.

Step 4: Pick a small, medium, or large storage unit size

The final step is to pick the size of a storage unit you will need. Storage facilities generally have three different categories of sizes: small units, medium units, and large units. Small units can store up to 50 square feet of stuff, medium units can hold a maximum of 150 square feet, and larger units have space for as much as 300 square feet.

MyStorageBox.com storage unit size chart

Storage Unit Size	Dimensions (ft)	Approximate Square Feet	Typical Contents
Small to Medium Storage Units	8×10	80	Mattress and box spring, Small furniture items (nightstands, chairs, drawers), Records, Extra supplies, Small office furniture
Medium Storage Units	8×20	160	Two-to-three-bedroom house contents, Fridge, Washer and dryer, Mattress sets, Dining room set, Bookcases, Couches, Boxes
Large Storage Units	8×40	320	Three-to-four-bedroom house contents, Couches, Oversized armchair, Dining room set, Fridge, Washer and dryer, Entertainment nook, Bookcases, Mattress sets

Storage Unit Size FAQ

What is the most common storage unit size?

The 10’x10′ storage unit is the most common storage unit size mainly because it’s very versatile. This unit is about half the size of a bedroom and is often used for short-term storage during relocation or for decluttering purposes.

How big of a storage unit do I need for a one-bedroom apartment?

You need a 5’x10′ storage unit for a one-bedroom apartment. Units this size can hold furniture pieces like a queen-sized mattress, couch, or bike.

How big of a storage unit do I need for a two-bedroom apartment?

A 10’x10′ is the ideal storage size for a two-bedroom apartment. It can store an entire family room, including a sofa, chairs, coffee table, and bookshelves.

Final Thoughts

As you can see, there are many different options of self-storage available so it’s all about thinking strategically if you want to get the best price for your storage. Planning thoroughly and doing your research goes a long way. And given the fact you’re carefully reading this size guide right now, it’s safe to say you’re on the right track!

We always recommend talking to your storage provider about your needs and consulting with them if you’re unsure which storage size you need so that you can make an informed decision. If you’re looking for self-storage in Ponca City, OK, you can count on us at My Storage Box. We offer affordable, easy access, and secure storage units. You can contact us 24/7, 7 days a week, and we’d be happy to assist you!