First Time Storage Guide

What size unit do you actually need?

Do you really need climate control?

Those are the two questions most first-time renters are working through before they ever sign a lease. This guide breaks both of them down, along with a few other factors worth thinking through before you commit to a unit.

Start With What You Are Storing

Before you compare prices or browse locations, take stock of what you plan to put in the unit. A rough inventory helps in two ways: it tells you how much space you need, and it tells you whether temperature regulation matters for your items. Seasonal gear, outdoor furniture, and tools generally hold up fine in a standard unit. Electronics, wood furniture, musical instruments, and documents can be more sensitive to temperature swings over time.

Choosing the Right Unit Size

Unit sizes are typically measured in square feet, and the range runs from small lockers up to spaces large enough for the contents of a multi-bedroom home. A 5x5 or 5x10 unit covers boxes, small furniture, and seasonal items. A 10x10 handles the contents of a one-bedroom apartment reasonably well. Larger units, like a 10x20 or 10x30, are better suited for full household moves or business inventory. If you are unsure where your load falls, Storage Lion's unit size guide walks through common scenarios to help you match your belongings to the right footprint.

When Climate Control Is Worth It

A climate-controlled unit maintains a consistent temperature range year-round. That matters most for items that can warp, crack, or degrade under repeated temperature shifts. Wood furniture and finished cabinetry are good examples. So are vinyl records, artwork, and electronics you plan to store for more than a few months. If you are storing seasonal decor or yard equipment for a couple of months, a standard unit is likely sufficient. For anything that would be difficult to replace or restore, a temperature-regulated space is worth the added cost. You can learn more about what Storage Lion offers through our climate-controlled storage options.

Other Factors to Consider Before You Rent

Location relative to your home or workplace matters more than most first-time renters expect. A unit that requires a long detour will get used less, which can affect how well you manage what is in it. Drive-up access is worth prioritizing if you plan to load and unload frequently or if you have bulky items. Month-to-month leases give you flexibility if your timeline is uncertain, which it often is during a move or renovation.

Finding a Storage Lion Location Near You

Storage Lion operates facilities across Wisconsin, Arkansas, Colorado, and Missouri. Each location varies in available unit types and features, so it helps to browse by area to see what is currently offered near you. Visit our self storage locations page to find a facility and check availability. Renting online takes only a few minutes, and most locations offer month-to-month leases with no long-term commitment required.