Drive Up & Outdoor Storage Units | U-Haul (2024)

FAQs

What is the difference between an indoor and outdoor storage unit? ›

In reality, the main difference between indoor and outdoor is where the door is located. With indoor storage units, you first enter a building and then walk down the hall to your unit. With the outdoor version, the building still contains multiple units, but you can open yours up from the outside.

Most self-storage facilities rent units on a month-to-month basis, meaning there are no long term leases or contracts. In most cases, you can set up an account and conveniently make your monthly payments and manage you storage unit online. You can also set up autopay for added convenience.

The most common storage unit sizes range from 5-by-5 feet to 10-by-30 feet (25 to 400 square feet) with many variations in between. Small storage units are perfect for storing seasonal decorations and sports equipment long term, while medium and large units work well for short-term storage during a move.

Extra Large-Sized Units

If you're looking for the deluxe self-storage solution, consider a 10x20, 10x30, 12x30 or 20x20 storage unit. These are approximately the size of a standard two-car garage and can accommodate vehicles, such as cars or trucks, in addition to large household items.

Multiple Bedroom Sets

Bedroom furniture can be big and bulky, so don't fill up your garage, attic, or basem*nt. Instead, rent 10x20 storage, which can hold up to three or four bedrooms' worth of furniture.

Lack of climate control: Unlike indoor storage units, outdoor storage containers may not have climate control, which can lead to mould, mildew, and pest infestations, especially if you are storing items that are sensitive to temperature and humidity changes.

Store in a Dry, Dark, & Cool Place

Your best option will be a climate-controlled storage unit. Climate-control units are kept at consistent humidity and temperature, providing you with a perfect environment for long-term clothing storage.

One major drawback of shipping containers is their lack of temperature control or insulation. While these containers excel at providing a secure and weatherproof environment, they do not regulate temperature.

When there's more supply than demand, rates tend to be lower. Because of this, you'll most likely find better rates on a storage unit in the slow season, i.e., winter.

You might pay more or less for a storage unit depending on the unit size, your geographic location, and any amenities such as climate control. Depending on their location, self-storage tenants can expect to pay between $30 a month for a small 5×5 unit, and up to $250 or more for a larger 10×20 or 10×15 unit.

Is paying for storage worth it? ›

Storage units offer a safe and convenient solution for securing your household items or valuables when you don't have enough space to house them yourself. Over the long term, the cumulative cost of a storage unit can surpass the value of the items inside.

A king-size bed set, including a box spring, can fit in a 5x10 storage unit. An average king-size bed takes up about 18 of the 50 square feet of available storage space.

A 10x10 unit is a good size for the stuff found in two bedrooms, an entire family room or a modest one- or two-bedroom apartment. A few large appliances and pieces of large furniture can easily be stored in a 10x10 storage unit as well as mattress sets, desks, couches, dining room sets and multiple boxes.

Technically, yes. A queen mattress is 60 in wide and so is a 5×5 unit. If the storage unit has 8 ft ceilings (which is common), there would be room for the 80 in length of a queen mattress when stood on end. A mattress is best stored straight up or laying flat to prevent permanent damage and misshaping.

A 10×20 shed is large enough to store anything. Okay, maybe not anything, but you get the gist. 200 square feet gives you the flexibility to store recreational vehicles such as 4 wheelers, snowmobiles, and riding lawnmowers. There will also be room for patio furniture, lawn care equipment, and even mechanical supplies.

Dismantle furniture, when possible, to get the most out of your storage space. Use empty areas such as drawers and filing cabinets for storing small items. Plan out the space on paper before you get there, making room for larger, heavier items on the floor and stacking lighter items on top.