Confessions of a Compulsive Organizer

Self Storage on a Budget: How to Get What You Want

by Ricardo Hart

When you have a lot of excess stuff, having a storage unit can help you organize your personal space. Finding affordable self storage can be a hassle when you have a small budget for spending. Learn how to get great storage for your needs at a price point you can afford with your tight finances.

Ask about discount programs

Some storage unit facilities offer discounts to people for a variety of reasons. Paying several months in advance, being a senior citizen, or having military status can help you get a cheaper rate on your storage unit. Ask around your area and find out if there are ways you can lower your monthly rate so you can get a storage unit that fits closer to your budget.

Rent a storage unit within a few miles of your home

You don't want gas prices interfering with your ability to use self storage, so make sure you choose one that is relatively close to where you live. This way, you can benefit from being able to easily access your items whenever you want to, and you don't have to worry about the hefty cost of gas in addition to the rate you pay for your unit.

Rent one larger unit

If you need multiple storage units, it is likely cheaper for you to just rent one large one than many smaller ones. Compare rates of a few smaller units versus one larger one, and see how much space you actually need compared to the savings. In most cases, a single larger unit is all the space you need and is relatively cheaper than having multiple units all at once.

Don't pay for extras

If you just need a basic storage unit, don't pay for extras such as temperature control, lighting, and other perks. Many storage unit facilities charge you much more for specialized units while their basic units are able to protect and maintain your items easily. Unless you have to house sensitive items, such as food or computer equipment, most storage units are able to store your belongings without damaging them in any way. If you are paying for electricity or heating you don't really need, you are throwing away extra dollars every month.

Having a self storage unit doesn't mean you need to spend a lot of money in the process. Ask companies like West Thunderbird Mini Storage about discounts and use other tactics to get you the best price on a storage unit for your own personal needs.

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