With growing urban populations, the need for off-site storage solutions has created a boom in the number of storage facilities around the country. Features that make storage units attractive to scores of consumers include monitored security, 24 hour access, and month-to-month lease agreements.

Personal mini storage units are widely available in sizes ranging from 25 to 500 square feet. These rentals are typically offered as climate and humidity controlled interior environments. The constant climate is perfect for sensitive items like electronics, upholstered furniture, clothing, paper files, and books. This feature reduces worries about mildew, warping, musty odors, and rusting. There are also less expensive interior self storage units which have limited climate controls, but provide better protection than an exterior storage shed for moving. This would be ideal for items like bicycles, plastic toys, lawnmowers, and seasonal items.

Moving storage sheds are often found at mini storage facilities. These exterior units are not usually climate controlled, so storage sheds for moving are best used for brief periods of time. Because of their limited amenities, storage sheds can be much more affordable than their interior counterparts. If your needs are short-term and your budget is stretched, moving storage sheds would be a reasonably priced option.

Another highly sought after self storage facility is the outdoor parking lot for storing boats, cars, campers, RVs, trucks, trailers, motorcycles, and watercraft. Most mini self storage companies offer space for this purpose. A lot of people with strict homeowner's associations find these storage lots to be a convenient solution for stowing their seasonal vehicles.

New Ideas in Self Storage

Small businesses that need an office outside the home will find available space for this purpose at many storage facilities. Common benefits include a business center with phone, fax, computer, and photocopy capabilities. In addition, there are usually client meeting areas or conference rooms. Most of these facilities also provide services such as shipping, receiving, and inventory storage. Larger businesses which need long-term warehouse space and businesses with seasonal inventory may like the flexibility of self storage units. Business owners appreciate the privacy and security offered by such storage solutions.

Portable storage space is a new twist on the self storage concept. Large containers are brought to the customer who fills and locks the unit. The box is then picked up by the portable storage space company. Containers can be stored in warehouses or delivered to a destination of the client's choice. Portable storage space units are highly convenient and help reduce the stress of moving or storing your belongings.

Self Storage Tips

• Put regularly accessed items in the front.
• Buy high quality padlocks to secure your unit.
• Invest in mattress covers, glassware boxes, sofa/chair covers, wardrobe boxes, and china boxes.
• Save space by removing table legs and storing sofas or mattresses on end.
• Label boxes on all sides and stack them with room for accessible aisles.
• Use furniture drawers to group various small items.
• Place artwork and mirrors upright.