7 Pros and Cons of Renting a Storage Unit

When you’re trying to make any decision that requires a commitment and money, you should always run through the pros and the cons first to see if it’s worth it. If you’re undecided about renting a warehouse storage unit, here are 4 advantages and 3 disadvantages that you can consider to help you make a final decision. 

1. Pro: Storing Things Can Free Up Needed Space

Although this may seem obvious, it’s the truth. When you have things that you don’t have room for, such as a ton of seasonal clothing and holiday items, renting a storage unit can be a good option that doesn’t require you to sell or otherwise permanently give up your things. 

2. Pro: You Can Rent Space for as Long as You Need

If you take the time to shop around, you can find a storage company that will provide you with storage on your terms. Not all facilities require you to lock yourself in to months or years of paying storage fees. Some offer month-to-month leases, which means that you can opt out whenever you get ready. 

3. Pro: You Can Choose a Climate-Controlled Facility

Unfortunately are often outdoors and are subjected to temperature changes — some which are drastic — and the possibility of humidity build-up. These type of conditions can spell disaster for certain items you choose to store. But there’s a solution. You can choose a climate-controlled facility that will keep your items at a stable temperature so you don’t have to worry about them being damaged. Another advantage of this type of self storage units is that you won’t likely have to worry about flooding or pest invasions. 

4. Pro: You Can Easily Access Your Items When You Need Them

Whether you choose a self storage units or a climate-controlled facility, you can get to your items as needed. This is especially true if you plan ahead when storing your items in the unit. For example, putting items you think you might need toward the front the unit will make them more accessible. And even if you choose to store your things with a company that picks up and delivers your items, some allow you to schedule a delivery of some or all of your items whenever you want, such as Livable, a company that offers San Francisco storage, as well as in other cities. According to Livable, they deliver on your schedule, “With Livible’s patent-pending TimeLock guarantee, you choose a 1 hour [pickup or delivery] time window including evenings and weekends.”

5. Con: You May Have to Move Your Stuff Yourself — or Pay Someone

Depending on the type of storage company you rent from, you may have to transport your items to the unit yourself, which can be a hassle. This is especially true if you have large or heavy items that you can’t move on your own or without a truck. But you can solve this problem by renting with a storage company, such as Livable, that picks up and re-delivers items.

6. Con: Security Measures Vary

Again, it all depends on the storage company you rent from, but some have less-than-impressive security measures in place. The best thing to do is ask questions before renting to make sure the facility is doing everything it reasonably can — security cameras, alarm systems, good lighting — to ensure your belongings are protected while in storage. 

7. Climate-Control Units Are Generally More Pricey

If you’re concerned about the extra cost of renting a storage unit that has climate control, you shouldn’t be. These type of units are generally only around 20% more than the cost of a self-storage unit, and they can be well worth the extra cost. Consider what you are storing. Could it be easily damaged if not in a regulated climate? If it does get damaged, how serious will it be? Do services such as pickup and delivery matter to you? Asking yourself these questions can help you decide if the extra cost would be worth it. 

Is Renting a Storage Unit Worth It?

When you’re trying to decide whether to rent a storage unit, you have to think of the alternatives. If you don’t rent a unit, you’ll have to resort to asking a friend or family member to store your things, which can be a burden. Or you’ll have to part with some of your belongings. If neither of those are options for you, renting a storage unit can be a good investment. Finally, if you’re torn about what type of storage unit to rent, it helps to consider your needs. Do you have items that need extra protection beyond what a self-storage can provide? Will it be a struggle to move items on your own? If so, a climate-controlled unit is likely a good choice.