Are you feeling overwhelmed by clutter and in need of some extra storage space? Or are you moving house locally or interstate and need a secure place to store your belongings? Perhaps you’re trying to relocate your business’s office?
Whatever your reasons, choosing the right size storage unit is essential to ensure your items are stored safely and conveniently. With so many storage unit sizes available, determining which is right for you can take a lot of work.
That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to help you assess your storage needs and make an informed decision. We’ll even discuss how to pick a removalist to transport your belongings from point A to point B.
Assess your storage needs
There are a few key factors to consider to ensure you choose the right storage unit for your needs — the first step is to assess your storage requirements. This involves taking an inventory of your belongings and estimating the total volume they will occupy.
Another important consideration is how frequently you must access your stored items. If you plan on accessing your belongings regularly, choosing a unit closer to the entrance or on the ground floor may be best for ease of access.
It’s also essential to think about the duration of your storage needs. If you only require storage space for a short period, choosing a smaller unit may be more cost-effective. However, if you plan on storing your items for a longer period, selecting a larger unit may be more economical to avoid having to upgrade later on.
In addition to size, consider other features that may be important for your storage needs. For example, consider a climate-controlled unit if you’re storing items sensitive to temperature changes, such as electronics or artwork. Likewise, if you’re storing valuable items, choose a facility with additional security measures, such as surveillance cameras or security personnel.
Understand storage unit sizes
Here are the most common storage unit sizes available in Australia:
- Small storage units: These are typically 1.5 metres wide by 3 metres deep, which provides 4.5 square metres of space or roughly the same as a walk-in wardrobe. These units are suitable for storing smaller items such as boxes, small furniture items and seasonal decorations.
- Medium storage units: These units are usually 3 metres wide by 3 metres deep, about the same size as a small bedroom or study. These provide 9 square metres of space. These are ideal for larger items such as bedroom furniture, appliances and business files.
- Large storage units: These units are typically 6 metres wide by 3 metres deep, providing 18 square metres of space, similar to a single-car garage. They’re suitable for holding the contents of a 2 to 3-bedroom home, including furniture, appliances and even a vehicle.
- Extra large storage units: These units are typically 9 metres wide by 3 metres deep, providing 27 square metres of space, much like a 2-car garage. They’re suitable for commercial or industrial use, such as storing equipment or inventory. They can also hold the contents of a 4 to 5-bedroom home.
Storage unit dimensions may vary slightly depending on the facility, so it’s best to confirm the exact measurements with the storage facility before selecting a unit.
When choosing a storage unit size, consider the dimensions of the items you need to store and the space you’ll need to move around inside the unit comfortably. Additionally, think about whether you’ll need to stack things vertically to maximise the use of space.
If you’re unsure of the size you need, opting for a larger unit is always better to avoid cramming too many items into a small space.
Calculate the space you need
Now that you have assessed your storage needs and understand the sizes of storage units, it’s time to calculate the space you need. Here’s an easy method to follow:
- Measure your belongings: Measure the length, width and height of the items you plan to store. Write down the measurements in metres for accuracy.
- Calculate the total volume: Multiply the length, width and height measurements together to calculate the total volume of your belongings. For example, if your items measure 2 metres by 3 metres by 1 metre, the total volume would be 6 cubic metres (2 x 3 x 1 = 6).
- Compare to storage unit sizes: Look at the dimensions of storage units available at your chosen storage facility. Check the volume capacity of each unit and select the one that can accommodate your total volume with a little extra space for ease of access.
- Consider vertical space and stacking: Take into account the height of the storage unit and the height of your belongings. If you plan on stacking boxes or items, leave enough space between the top of the stack and the ceiling to allow for air circulation and access to items.
Shop around for storage units
Once you’ve determined the appropriate size and features you need, it’s time to start shopping around for storage units.
Research and compare different storage facilities and their offerings. Read reviews from other customers to get an idea of the level of service and security provided. If possible, visit the facilities in-person to get a better sense of the size and accessibility of the units.
How to pick a removalist
Knowing how to pick the right removalist is just as important as choosing a storage unit. Here are some tips to help you select a reputable and reliable removalist:
- Look for a licensed and insured company: A reputable removalist should have the necessary licences and insurance to protect your belongings during transit.
- Read reviews and ask for referrals: Research the company’s reputation by reading online reviews from previous customers. You can also ask for referrals from family, friends or colleagues who have recently moved.
- Get multiple quotes: Contact several removalists to compare their pricing and services. Be wary of companies that offer significantly lower prices than others, as this may indicate low-quality service or hidden fees.
- Enquire their services: Check if the removalist offers additional services such as packing, unpacking and storage. Some removalists may also provide special handling for fragile items, such as antiques or piano instruments.
- Check their availability: Make sure the removalist is available on your desired moving date and time. Also, check for any restrictions or requirements for moving certain items, such as hazardous materials.
Keeping your valuable belonging safe and secure
Choosing the right size storage unit and learning how to pick a removalist is crucial to ensure the safety and longevity of your stored items.
If you’re in need of a removalist, consider No Limits Removalists for all your moving needs. Our team of experienced professionals will ensure that your belongings are packed and transported safely and efficiently. Contact us today to get a quote and schedule your move.