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You've probably accumulated quite a bit of stuff after an entire school year of classes, club

meetings, sporting events, and parties. You may have started the year with a clean dorm room

or apartment with minimalist aspirations, but you've inevitably accumulated more items than

you initially moved in with. You must now decide what to do with your belongings before

returning home for the semester. Of course, you can donate some of the items or trash those

that are beyond repair, but what about the things you want to keep but can't take home with

you?

Storage units are a great way to keep your belongings safe over the summer. The concept is

straightforward: a storage unit is a space you rent to store your belongings. It's a great option for

students who want to keep items over the summer but don't have the space or can't transport

them home. While the concept is simple, not all storage units and facilities are the same, so we've

compiled a list of five things to consider when selecting a storage unit.

#1 – SIZE

Size does matter when it comes to your storage unit. While you should definitely consider the

square footage of the space, don't forget to consider the ceiling height as well. Make a list of the

items you intend to store in your storage unit to help you determine the appropriate size.

Depending on the things you intend to keep, you must ensure that they are both wide and tall

enough. The size of your unit will also influence the cost of your storage unit.

#2 – LENGTH OF TIME

Most storage unit rental facilities rent on a month-to-month basis, so consider how long you'll

need your unit. Though many facilities accept short-term rentals, some do have a minimum rental

period, so keep this in mind when selecting a facility.

#3 – LOCATION

The location of your storage unit is important for several reasons, including accessibility and cost.

If you need to access your items frequently, choosing a storage unit close by will make things

easier; however, if you are storing your items for the summer, the location may be less important,

and cost may be more important. Storage unit facilities are sometimes less expensive outside

urban areas - where demand is higher, so you can get a better deal.

#4 – COST

The cost is a consideration when selecting a storage solution. A few factors to consider will

ultimately increase the cost: minimum length of time requirements, contract type, and additional

fees. Some storage facilities have a minimum storage period, which affects the cost. In addition,

month-to-month storage options may be less expensive. Don't forget to factor in additional fees

— Make sure you understand what happens if you make a late or missed payment to avoid

incurring additional fees or losing your storage unit (and your items in it).

#5 – SAFETY AND SURVEILLANCE

It's crucial to investigate how secure the facility and storage units are. When researching facilities,

inquire about whether the units have video monitoring or in-person surveillance, as this will help

to keep your items safe. Furthermore, if you visit the facility ahead of time, note whether it is

well-lit, as this will ensure your safety when you retrieve your items.