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A Professional Organizer's Thoughts on Storage Units

If you're like 54% of Americans, you are overwhelmed with clutter and don't know what to do with it.


If you're like 21% of Americans, you rent a storage unit.


If you rent a storage unit, it's most likely because of lack of space, overtaking moving as the #1 reason for needing self-storage. And the most common item in storage? Furniture.


Let's talk about this.


For the record, I'm not completely against storage units. I never say never, because there's always nuance and situations where it's necessary. What I want to talk about is the WHY. Why are we storing our belongings somewhere else besides the home? Why are they not in the home?


On one hand, if you are moving, undergoing a renovation, or need temporary space, a storage unit is a great option to manage your items and keep them safe. There are many ways to pack and store your items so they don't suffer any damage, in addition to features of storage units that you'll need depending on the amount of items you have, like climate-control and air circulation. Even then, it's not 100% guaranteed, so using a unit for short-term is much better than long-term.


On the other hand, If you don't have an end date to your storage unit lease, using it until XYZ happens or ABC moves out or DEF occurs, let me see if I can save you some money and lighten your load. What I don't like about storage units is that it keeps items - typically furniture as stated above - on your mental plate and draining your wallet. Out of sight, out of mind, and a burden you don't need to bear. Here's some questions to think about:


  1. Are the items someone else's, that you are either holding for them or waiting until they make a move? Heirlooms that could be distributed or sold? If so, consider what it would mean to you (and the parties involved) to move or sell the items. Maybe another family member wants the items or has room in their home, or a college student you know could use the functional pieces.

  2. Are the items simply extra - duplicates of one you already are using inside your home - that you could possibly sell and use the profit for something else? This is a big one - if you have what you need already in your home, why pay hundreds of dollars a month to hold an extra? If you end up needing a similar item later, you'll still have saved hundreds of dollars in storing it.

  3. Do the items bear emotional weight, such as a late loved one's things, or items from a move years ago that you just can't bring yourself to go through? This can be hard. I never want to rush my clients, but even going through a small amount on a regular basis can help reduce the emotional and financial load.


Finally, think about the money you will save by not continuing to rent a storage unit. Like literally tally up the cost. If you don't have a legit, bonafide reason for renting, why pay?


If you need help going through them items, including valuing antiques or readying for sale, a local professional organizer (ahem, me!) can certainly help. I personally have access to referrals for resalers, auction houses, junk haulers and antique experts that can help you make informed decisions AND possibly money!









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