Moving to a different place requires many aspects of the process. Downsizing your stuff is one of them. And many people feel that they don’t have enough space to store some of their belongings. If you are one of those, you might be considering a safe and secure storage unit to keep your possessions. Many storage facilities are available to house your items, but you have to pay a price for them. Various factors influence the price of a storage unit, and knowing these can aid in finding the most cost-effective storage solution for your needs. So, how much does a self storage unit cost?
Here, we will share some insights on this aspect. Let’s get started –
Factors Affecting Self Storage Unit Costs
Several factors influence the cost of renting a self storage unit, making it essential to understand what drives these prices. From the size of the unit to the location and additional amenities, each element plays a crucial role in determining the overall cost. Here, you can find more about these factors.
Size of the self storage unit
The first and foremost factor affecting the cost of the self storage unit is its size. The larger the size of the unit, the higher is the cost. Several self storage unit sizes are small, medium and large. Small storage units are ideal for seasonal decorations or small items, medium units are suitable for a one-bedroom apartment, and large units are appropriate for a multi-bedroom house.
Location
Storage units located in urban areas or cities generally have high costs due to the high cost of living. Factors such as convenience, proximity to city centers, and demand drive the prices. For instance – a storage unit in a small town in upstate New York will cost less than a unit in NYC.
Climate control
You might have some belongings that require to be kept at a certain temperature. These items may include artwork, wood furniture, vinyl records, etc. Before opting for any storage unit, ensure that you ask the company whether they provide specialized storage for such kinds of things or not.
Amenities and features
Additional features included in the storage amenities can also increase self storage unit rates like gated access, 24/7 surveillance, on-site management to name a few.
Length of time needed or contract period
The duration for which you need to store your items in the self storage unit also impacts the storage unit rental cost. If you are lucky, you might also get discounts like military discounts or price breaks on longer-term rentals.
Availability
If the storage unit you are opting for has many free units available, the prices are going to be lower. It has been found out that self storage units during the winter months are usually less in demand. So, you might be able to get a chance to choose from a wider selection of self storage units.
Average Self Storage Unit Costs
How much does a storage unit cost? Well, the accurate cost will depend on your needs and preferences.
Average cost of self storage unit by size
The average cost of small size storage unit (5 x 5 to 5 x 10 ft.) varies between $60-$80, for a medium unit (5 x 15, 10 x 10, 10 x 25 ft.) it is between $150-$250, and for a large unit (10 x 20, 10 x 25, 10 x 30 ft.) it is between $300-$500.
Average Cost of Self Storage Unit by Location
The cost of storage units can vary significantly depending on the location. Urban areas and major cities generally have higher prices compared to suburban or rural areas.
Cost of self storage unit for climate control
Self Self Storage unit prices for a climate-controlled unit go up by at least $30-$40 per month. Check with your storage space service provider to know about the exact costs of the storage unit.
Additional Fees and Expenses
You have made up your mind to rent a storage unit. There are some additional fees and expenses you must consider, and those are –
Storage unit insurance
You must buy storage unit insurance for your priceless possessions if you are putting your items into a storage unit. The insurance fee is determined by the total value of the items you are storing in a storage space.
You can either buy insurance from your storage company or purchase a separate policy. Ensure to choose a policy providing adequate coverage, especially from natural disasters.
Taxes and fees
Taxes and fees are added to the price once you rent a storage unit. The tax rate depends on the rate pertaining to your area. But the fees of every company differ. Some storage companies charge extra for additional things like administration set-up. This extra amount might not be included in the estimates you get from the company in an online manner. So, clarify all the taxes, fees, and rates beforehand.
Security deposit
Some storage facilities require a refundable security deposit, which is returned when you vacate the unit in good condition.
Late payment fees
You may have to pay late fees if you miss a payment. These fees can add up quickly. So, it is important to make your payments on time.
Tips to save money and avoid extra expenses
There are some costs that are non-negotiable when you sign a storage unit agreement. However, with the help of a few strategies, you can shave off some dollars from your bill. The strategies are –
- Only opt for those amenities which you actually need. If your belongings don’t require a climate controlled unit, don’t go for that. This way you can save some cash.
- Before getting the insurance for your belongings, check whether your homeowner or renter’s insurance has some policy to insure your items. If there is any policy regarding that, you don’t need to buy extra insurance.
- Don’t hesitate to negotiate, especially if you are planning to store our items in the storage space for a longer period.
- Some storage companies offer discounts or promotions. Check on that and save some money.
Conclusion
Understanding the storage unit costs can help you make a more informed decision and avoid unexpected expenses. By considering factors such as size, location, climate control, amenities, and contract length, you can find a storage solution that fits your budget and meets your needs. With careful planning and research, you can secure a storage unit that offers both value and peace of mind.
If you are looking for a storage unit that fulfills all your needs, look no further. Big Apple Moving has got your back. We are a one-stop destination for the people who need the best moving and storage solutions. Get in touch with us for more information.