Smart Tips for Saving Money on Storage Units
Whether you’re storing belongings during a move, keeping seasonal items out of the way, or protecting valuable equipment, a little planning can go a long way toward reducing your storage unit cost. The good news? There are plenty of smart, simple steps you can take to stretch your storage unit budget without sacrificing security or convenience.
Choose the Right Size Unit from the Start
One of the easiest ways to keep the cost of storage down is to avoid paying for space you don’t actually need. Many people overestimate the size they require, leading to higher monthly fees. To choose the right size and keep your storage unit cost as low as possible:
- Take a full inventory of what you plan to store so you know exactly how much space you’ll need.
- Measure larger items like furniture, appliances, or equipment to ensure they’ll fit comfortably.
- Group smaller items into boxes for easier stacking and more efficient use of space.
- Visit the facility in person if possible—seeing the units helps you visualize how your items will fit.
By planning ahead and choosing the right unit size, you can avoid wasted space and unnecessary costs.
Storage Unit Size Guide by Square Footage and Rooms
Pack and Load with a Plan
Use sturdy, same-sized boxes that stack neatly from floor to ceiling. Place heavier items on the bottom and lighter, fragile items on top. Keep frequently used items near the front for easy access, so you don’t have to unload half the unit to find what you need. The more organized your space, the better you can control the cost of storage over time!
Break Down Large Items
Furniture and equipment can take up more space than necessary if stored in their assembled form. By taking apart bed frames, removing table legs, or breaking down shelving, you can save valuable square footage.
This strategy lets you rent a smaller unit and immediately lower your storage unit cost. Keep screws and hardware in labeled bags taped to the disassembled pieces, so reassembly is easy when you’re ready to use them again.
Use Every Inch—Floor to Ceiling
Maximizing vertical space can mean the difference between renting a medium unit and a large one. Shelving units inside your storage space can help keep items off the floor, reduce clutter, and allow you to store more in less space.
Declutter Before You Store
The fewer items you store, the less space you need, and the lower your storage unit cost will be! Take time to sort through your belongings and donate, sell, or recycle anything you no longer use. By going through your things before you move into a storage unit, you can potentially downgrade to a smaller—and more affordable—space.
Share a Unit with a Friend or Family Member
If you don’t have enough items to fill a unit on your own, consider splitting one with someone you trust. This allows you to divide the monthly payment and reduce your cost of storage. Just make sure you agree in advance on how the space will be divided, who will have access, and how payments will be handled.
Pay Attention to Location and Features
It’s tempting to go for the cheapest storage facility you can find, but this might come with hidden costs. A facility that’s farther away or lacks features like climate control and security might seem like a good deal upfront, but the added transportation time or potential damage to your belongings could cost you more in the long run.
Look for a storage provider that balances reasonable pricing with the amenities you need. This is where Hawkeye Storage shines—offering multiple locations, secure access, and flexible options to help you get the best value for your storage unit cost.
Save on Moving Costs with Hawkeye’s Moving Van Rental
One often-overlooked way to save money on storage is to control your moving costs. Renting an outside moving truck can be expensive, especially if you’re paying by the hour or per mile. Hawkeye Storage makes this easier by offering an on-site moving van rental in Danville, Indiana.
Not only does this save you time and hassle, but it also cuts down on the total cost of storage by reducing transportation expenses. You can load your items right into the van, bring them directly to your unit, and avoid the extra cost and coordination of dealing with a separate rental company.
Affordable Options with Hawkeye Self Storage
In addition to providing flexible storage options, Hawkeye Self Storage also offers affordable rates for their units. Whether you need a small unit for personal items or a larger unit for business equipment, Hawkeye has various sizes and prices to fit your budget.
With no hidden fees or deposits, Hawkeye strives to make self-storage as affordable and convenient as possible. Find your unit today!