Self-storage is a practical solution when you need extra space for your belongings, but the cost can quickly add up if you’re not mindful of how much space you truly need. Fortunately, there are several ways to make self-storage more affordable without sacrificing the safety and security of your items. By being strategic in your approach, you can save money and make the most of your storage space.

Here’s how to get self-storage cheaper:

Only Get the Size You Need

One of the easiest ways to reduce your self-storage costs is to rent only the size you actually need. While it might be tempting to go for a larger container just in case, this can lead to unnecessary expenses. Carefully assess what you plan to store before choosing a container size.

But how do you know which size to get?

How to calculate the right size:

• Make a list of the items you plan to store, including large furniture, boxes, and other bulky items.
• Measure these items or estimate their combined volume to get a clearer idea of the amount of space they’ll take up.

For example, if you’re only storing boxes, small furniture, or seasonal items, a 10ft container may be sufficient. On the other hand, larger furniture or household contents might require a 20ft or even 40ft container, but make sure you’re not renting more space than necessary, or worse, not enough!

Stack and Organise Your Items Efficiently

The best way to save money is to prepare!

Maximising the space within your storage unit can make a huge difference. By stacking your belongings carefully, you can fit more into a smaller container and avoid the cost of a larger one. This is where organisation is key.

How to stack efficiently:

• Use sturdy boxes that can be stacked on top of each other without collapsing. Uniform-sized boxes are best as they allow for neat, stable stacking.
• Dismantle furniture like beds, tables, and chairs, as this will save a considerable amount of space. Store dismantled parts vertically to maximise floor space.
• Utilise vertical space: Place heavier or less frequently used items at the bottom and stack lighter, more fragile items on top. Leave walkways if possible, so you can easily access your belongings without having to unpack everything.
• Use vacuum bags for clothing and bedding to save space and protect them from dust and moisture.

This helps you to get more out of a smaller container, keeping costs down.

Donate, Sell, or Throw Away Unwanted Items

Before you move items into storage, take a good look at what you’re planning to store. Do you really need to store everything? Storing unnecessary items increases the size (and cost) of the storage unit you’ll need. Instead, consider donating, selling, or throwing away things you no longer use.

Ways to downsize before storage:

• Declutter your home by sorting your belongings into categories: keep, donate, sell, and bin. Be honest with yourself—if you haven’t used something in over a year, chances are you won’t miss it.
• Sell items online: Websites like eBay, Facebook Marketplace, and Gumtree make it easy to sell furniture, clothes, and other household goods. Not only will you reduce the amount of stuff you need to store, but you’ll also make a bit of extra cash in the process.
• Donate to charity: If you have usable items that you no longer need but don’t want to sell, consider donating them to a local charity. Many organisations will gladly accept clothing, furniture, and other household items.
• Throw away rubbish: Some items just aren’t worth keeping, and instead of paying to store them, it’s more economical to dispose of them. Old, broken, or worn-out items that you have no intention of fixing should be thrown away or recycled.

By reducing the number of items you’re storing, you can opt for a smaller, more affordable container.

Use Seasonal Storage Wisely

If you’re storing items that you only use during certain times of the year, think about renting a storage unit seasonally rather than for the entire year. For example, you might only need storage for your outdoor furniture, garden tools, or holiday decorations during the off-season. By only renting storage for the months you need, you can avoid paying for unnecessary storage space when those items are in use.

How to optimise seasonal storage:

• Rotate items in and out of storage based on the season. For example, you might store garden furniture in winter, then bring it out and replace it with holiday decorations in the summer.

Shop Around for the Best Deal

Not all self-storage facilities offer the same rates, so it’s worth taking the time to shop around and compare prices. While the convenience of a nearby storage facility may seem appealing, you may find that travelling a bit further could save you a significant amount of money.

What to look for:

• Compare unit sizes and prices at different locations. Some companies may offer discounts for long-term rentals, so it’s worth asking if you’re planning on storing items for several months.
• Consider security features: While you want to save money, make sure you’re not cutting corners on security. Ensure the facility has robust security measures like CCTV, secure access, and good lighting. A cheaper storage facility may not be worth the savings if it compromises the safety of your belongings.

Final thoughts

Self-storage doesn’t have to be expensive, and with a few smart strategies, you can significantly reduce your costs. By only renting the size container you need, efficiently organising your items, and decluttering before storage, you’ll be able to keep costs low while still ensuring your belongings are safely stored. Remember to shop around for the best deals and take advantage of seasonal storage options to save even more.

With a little planning and organisation, you can maximise your storage space and keep your costs down, ensuring self-storage remains an affordable and practical solution for your needs.