How to Move Out of a Storage Unit

If you have a storage unit, it might be time to move out. Ideally, it would be best if you moved out of your storage unit at least thirty days before your contract expires. Although this may seem like a long time, it's essential to give yourself enough time to move everything out of the unit completely. If you fail to move everything out in the allotted time frame, you might be forced to pay an additional fee.

Storage units are typically self-storage facilities that have indoor or outdoor storage spaces. Renting one is a way to store things you don't have room for in your home, apartment, business, etc. A standard storage unit will have an 8' ceiling and 10' wall height. This allows most people to fit most of their belongings into one. You can fit everything from boxes and suitcases to couches, tables, etc., in one unit.

Storage facilities typically have a gate that's always locked except for when you enter or exit the facility. The gate will have an electronic keypad where you'll be required to punch in your passcode before opening it. There'll be the main office within the facility where you can ask questions and get more information on your unit. It's important to know what size of the unit is right for you before signing a contract. If you pick too small of a unit, it might not have enough space for you to fit all your belongings. Another thing to consider is the location of your unit. You don't want it next to a noisy machine or somewhere where people will constantly go in and out.

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Here is How you can move out of storage unit:

Plan your stuff

Build a plan of what you're going to put into your unit. This will make moving out much easier because you can go through one pile at a time rather than everything all at once. Create categories Get into the habit of separating things into different piles by category. For example, clothing goes together; electronics go together, etc. Label boxes It's important to label your boxes clearly so everything is easy to find when you need it. For example, labeling a box "kitchen" can help find larger kitchen appliances such as a blender or food processor after the move.

Move larger items first 

Start with moving the big items out of your storage unit. Pack up couches and tables. Use a dolly to take larger items out of your storage unit and into the truck that will take them home. Please fill up your truck. Once the big things are out of the way, it's time to start packing up smaller boxes and suitcases. Put like items together in their boxes and make sure they're sealed correctly, so nothing falls out of them during transportation. Also, use a marker or tape to write "fragile" on all the boxes that contain smaller breakable items like dishes or glass picture frames.

Pack up smaller and lighter items next 

After you've taken all the large items out, it's time to start packing up the smaller things, such as boxes of clothes, bathroom supplies, shoes, etc. Sort through these boxes first to see what you must take back with you. Fill up the truck again. Remember last time you used a dolly? Well, it's time to use it again! You'll be using it frequently during this step of the moving process because multiple trips will be made between your storage unit and your moving truck. It's best to go ahead and pack up everything you can think of that you might need for the move-in process (e.g., towels, toilet paper, soap, cleaning supplies, etc.)

Fill up the last time 

The last trip will be made between your storage unit and your car. The car will be used for the things you don't have room in the truck to take with you (e.g., appliances). These can include lamps, bookcases, etc. Fill up your car and then head off to your new home!

Make sure everything is taken care of

When it's time for you to leave your storage unit, make sure that nothing is left behind. Go through all your belongings and make sure that there's no extra stuff (e.g., empty boxes) in the unit. Also, take everything with you, so the facility doesn't have to pack it up for you.

Final tip: if you want to save money on storage units, it might be good to get rid of the things you don't need or use anymore so that you don's need much larger storage unit space. That way, you won't have to pay for all that extra space, and you can just rent the most basic unit. When you're finished with this step, simply lock the door to your storage unit, give the lock key to management, and you're all finished!

Best Self Storage Units in the U.S.

1. U-Haul

U-Haul is one of the biggest in the industry. They have a variety of storage units to choose from, and they're open seven days a week. This gives you a great deal of flexibility when getting in and out of your storage unit, especially because they have extended opening hours. 

2. Public Storage

Public storage is another leader in the industry that offers both indoor and outdoor storage units at great rates. Like U-Haul, Public Storage has its company open for business seven days a week, so you can get in and out of your storage unit when it suits you. Public Storage also accepts deliveries for their customers, making unloading a breeze.

3. Extra Space Storage 

Extra Space Storage is another great option for storage units. They offer their customers free truck use (up to one hour) on move-out day, making the transition of your belongings into your new home that much easier. Pricing varies by location, but many people find their rates among the industry's lowest.

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4. Storage Place 

One of the major benefits of using Storage Place is that they have a "First Month Free" promotion available to new customers. In addition, their units are climate controlled, and they're open Monday through Friday from 9 am until 5 pm and on Saturdays between 9 am and 3 pm. 

5. Cube Smart 

Cube Smart is another leader in the industry that offers its customers climate-controlled units and outdoor spaces. Like several other self-storage facilities on this list, Cube Smart is open seven days a week and has extended hours, making it easy for you to get in and out of your storage unit at the time that suits you.

6. Life Storage 

Life Storage provides its customers with 24-hour video surveillance, and they have electronic gate access so you can get in and out of your storage unit at any time. They also offer an insurance plan for their customers that protects them against damage to the facility or the items stored there.

7. PODS Moving and Storage 

PODS Moving and Storage is based on the concept of portable storage. The company will bring the storage unit to your house to avoid any unloading hassles. If you don't have a truck or want to get everything taken care of in one fell swoop, then PODS might be the perfect solution for you.

Also See: Best Self-Storage Companies in the U.S. | Packing PODS and Other Moving Containers

Conclusion

When you're ready to move out of your storage unit, it's important to ensure that everything is taken care of. This includes making sure all belongings are packed and moved into the new home or apartment space before leaving the facility. It may also be a good idea to get rid of any items you don't need anymore so there won't be as much stuff in your storage unit when moving day comes around. Also, when you're moving out of your unit, be sure to have all paperwork in order. That way, there won't be an issue when it comes time to close the account and receive the key to the facility. 

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FAQ's

Why should I look for a 24-hour storage facility?

When choosing a new place to store your belongings, it's important to find a self-storage facility that has extended hours so you can get in and out of your unit at the time that suits you. For example, if you're not home during the day, you might want to choose a self-storage facility that opens later in the morning or earlier in the afternoon. You can also find storage facilities open after hours for your convenience.

When should I unload my belongings into my new unit?

Before storing anything in your new unit, it's important to unpack and make sure everything is where it should be. A good idea might be to unpack some of your belongings before moving day, so you're not rushing around trying to get things done all at once. Unloading your belongings before you move into your new unit can save you time, effort, and hassle in the long run.

Who will take care of my belongings when I'm gone?

When you need to store your belongings, they must be well taken care of. That's why it's advisable to hire a company like Extra Space Storage or Cube Smart, which will provide 24/7 video surveillance and electronic gate access so you can feel safe storing your belongings at their facility.

How should I pack my belongings?

It should come as no surprise that when you're planning to move out of your storage unit, it's important to pack and seal up all boxes and containers properly. Don't forget paper and cloth items, which can get damp or dusty if they aren't properly sealed up in air-tight containers.

When can I enter my new storage unit?

It's important to make sure the area where your belongings are stored has proper security measures in place, including video surveillance and electronic gate access. This will help ensure that your belongings are properly protected when you're not around. When you're looking at storage facilities, see which ones have these types of security measures so you can feel more at ease knowing your belongings are safe and secure.

Where can I find a good storage company?

When you're looking for a new self-storage facility, make sure to choose one that storage unit offers amenities like 24/7 video surveillance and electronic gate access so you can feel safe storing your belongings there. Also, ask about an insurance plan that protects your belongings against damage or theft.

Overall, choosing a self-storage facility that has good security measures in place can provide you with peace of mind knowing your belongings are safe and secure.

See Also: Top 24-Hour Storage Companies in the U.S.

How should I move my belongings into the unit?

Before you start storing your belongings in your new self-storage unit, it's important to take precautions to ensure everything is done safely. This includes not only making sure your boxes are sealed shut but also ensuring that they're labeled correctly so you can easily find items when needed. If you're packing your belongings, you can investigate packing services to ensure items are properly packed, so they don't get damaged or broken.

How should I seal my boxes?

Good packaging is key when it comes to moving out of your self-storage unit. Not only does proper packaging help protect your belongings from damage, but it also makes it easier for you to access them when you need them. So, when you're packing your belongings, make sure to seal all boxes and containers properly so you can feel confident that your belongings are secure.