Affordable Storage Units for Seniors: Cheap Storage Units Nearby & How Seniors Can Save

The Best Affordable Storage Units 2023

Storage units are one of the most convenient systems for storing your belongings for both the short and long-term.

Since its start, storage units have become a widespread storage method for personal and commercial purposes.

What is a Storage Unit?

A storage unit is a space or compartment to preserve stuff that you don’t need immediately. Whether for your apartment, house, or business, a storage unit is perfect for freeing up space.

There are different types of storage units available. Look out for these features when making a pick.

Different Types of Storage Units

Indoor and Outdoor Storage Units

Many people might assume that there isn’t a difference between indoor and outdoor storage units, but that isn’t exactly true. A couple of features make these two types differ from each other.

The entrance to your storage unit is a notable example. With an indoor unit, your storage space is inside a building. You will need to go through the main entrance and then walk down the hall or go up several floors to get to your storage unit. With an outdoor unit, you can access your storage space from the outside of the building.

Indoor and outdoor storage units both come with their benefits.

Indoor Unit

The weather does not affect it. You don’t have to worry about outside elements destroying your items.

Climate-controlled environment.

Almost always cheaper to rent.

Outdoor Unit

It offers more convenience since you can drive up to your unit’s door.

Save you more time and money if you’re moving since movers charge by the hour.

Special Storage Unit

Storage units are usually for commercial purposes or to keep special items. For instance, small businesses sometimes rent storage space for delivery services, extra inventory or climate-controlled warehousing.

Restaurants or private wine collectors sometimes need extra space to store their wines. Climate-controlled storage space is ideal for situations like these.

Uses of Storage Units?

There are many reasons why people use storage units. Some people use them for temporary needs while others use them long-term. Uses of storage units can range from decluttering your home to storing items while moving. Generally, storage units are helpful in the following situations.

• Moving to a new home
• Storage space for vehicles, machinery and equipment
• Storing archives and business inventory
• Make extra room in your home or apartment
• A temporary stash if you’re often on the move

Best Storage Units in the US

Different storage companies spread across the United States with various storage options. Here are the best storage unit companies with the best offers

Extra Space Storage ($35–$261 monthly)

• Second largest storage company in the United States
• More than 1,800 self-storage facilities in 35 states, including Washington DC, Arizona, Colorado, Florida, New York, etc.
• Offers up to $2,000–$10,000 of insurance on items
• Includes climate-controlled storage, drive-up units, indoor and outdoor units, vehicle storage
• First month free and up to 20% discount for online reservations

Pros

• Top-notch safety and security
• Nationwide locations
• Pest protection
• Online reservation discount

Cons - Rates may increase - Only available in 38 states - Public Storage - Largest rental space in the US - Provides customers with a free sizing guide to help them make the right choice - Has international locations including Denmark, France, Germany, United Kingdom and France - Climate-controlled storage, vehicle storage, indoor units, business-oriented - Orange Door Storage Insurance Program - As low as $1 for the first month

Pros

• First-month discount
• Wide international reach
• Various storage unit sizes

Cons

• No pest control
• Limited access hours

• Life Storage ($72–$220 monthly)

• 750 locations in 29 states, including Alabama, California, Georgia, Massachusetts, New Jersey, etc.
• particularly useful for business purposes
• Climate-controlled storage, wine storage, indoor and outdoor units, vehicle storage (autos, boats and RVs)
• Provides an app for businesses with many storage locations
• Excellent security, including a password-protected gated system

Pros

• Free truck rentals in some locations
• Top score BBB rating
• Wide variety of climate-controlled storage units

Cons

• Only available in 29 states
• Needs 7–14 days booking in advance
• U–Haul

Over 2,000 storage facilities plus an extra 4,000 affiliates Units are available in small, medium and large sizes, and some locations offer storage lockers Reputable moving company Insurance option known as Safestor provides coverage for your belongings First month rent-free for eligible units

Pros

• State-of-the-art security
• Excellent customer service
• Live office support
• Different insurance options

Cons

• Required advance payment
• Different features available at various storage centres
• Cubesmart ($26–$314 monthly)

Over 1,000 locations nationwide 15% discounts for online bookings and 10% discount for active military members Affordable storage services with great discount options Free truck rentals to customers in some locations Household and individual storage, business storage, vehicle (cars, boats, RVs and motorcycles) storage

Pros

• Free and discounted truck rentals
• Excellent customer service
• 24-hour surveillance
• Variety of discounts

Cons

• Limited access
• No assurance of pest control
• Cost-effective Storage / Movers Options for Seniors

Many people will agree that keeping a home is a source of satisfaction and fulfilment. Regardless, it can become a huge responsibility as you age. For this reason, many seniors end up relocating to a senior living community.

Are you interested in moving into a senior living community or helping a family member do so? You will most likely need to explore different storage and moving options that suit your needs.

One of the best companies for seniors is RightAway Storage in Baltimore, with exciting features and facilities such as

Climate-controlled storage units

• 24-hour security and video surveillance
• Month-to-month rent to support short-term storage
• 12-month rate guarantee
• Up to 40% discount on rent
• package acceptance
• RightAway Storage in Leesburg comes with features such as
• Enclosed loading area and convenient hours
• Valet pick-up service.

Full storage service—pick up, store and redeliver your items whenever you need them.

RightAway provides self-storage, complete storage services, and valet pick-up services. Your storage fee reflects the amount of space you need for your items.

Valet Bins (no bulky items) - $7 monthly per bin - $19 one time delivery fee

3’ × 5’ storage - $59 monthly - $79 delivery fee

5’ × 5’ storage $99 monthly $99 delivery fee

5’ × 10’ storage - $119 monthly - $129 delivery fee

5’ × 15’ storage - $149 monthly - $189 delivery fee

10’ × 10’ storage - $179 monthly - $329 delivery fee

10’ × 15’ storage - $209 monthly - $299 delivery fee

10’ × 20’ storage - $259 monthly - $419 delivery fee

10’ × 30’ storage - $299 monthly - $499 delivery fee

All storage options come with a complimentary pick-up fee.

Things to Consider before Getting a Storage Unit

Before you rent a storage space, there are crucial things you should consider. Whether you are a homeowner looking to free up space, a college student putting items away or a business owner, evaluate these factors.

• Consider security, accessibility and location
• You will need to provide a valid government-issued ID to rent your storage space
• Consider if you will need movers to help you transport your items to your unit
• How long do you want to store your items?
• Consider the items you want to store and if you’ll need facilities such as a climate-controlled environment for your items
• Consider insurance as storage companies are not responsible for the content of your unit
• Find out the types of items you can store in your unit
• Examine the different options available and their fees

Low-cost Storage Units / Movers

SpareFoot

SpareFoot is an online platform created to help you find the perfect storage options for your needs. Using this service comes with several benefits.

• Online based storage solution center with over 12,000 units across the United States
• Reservations on SpareFoot are free
• The most affordable rates for self-storage, although prices vary from one location to another no matter the company you choose
• Monthly costs run from $40–$135 monthly, and customers can get discounts from 10% to 100% off your first month’s fee
• Moving trucks organize through a third party, but SpareFoot customers can get up to 10% off

Pros

• Online rental discounts up to 15%
• A wide nationwide network
• Free reservations

Cons

• Uncertainty of pest control
• Video surveillance isn’t assured.
• Storage Sense

Storage Sense is one of the most affordable options with various features.

• Offers promotion to individuals and businesses such as a $1 rate and a 50% discount for the first 30 days
• Offers insurance coverage of $2,000 for $9 and up to $20,000 for $83 per month.
• has several sizes to select from when you’re planning to move

Pros

• Free and discounted truck rental for moving
• Various discounts on storage rental rates
• Free and discounted rental for the first 30 days

Cons

• limited pricing info on the company’s website
• low online presence

SecureCare

SecureCare storage has excellent features that make it great for storage and moving needs.

• Free truck rental for moving on the first time and a free move-in truck rental for those who make online reservations
• Excellent for college students and active military personnel
• Insurance policies start at $9 monthly and combine with monthly storage fees
• Excellent security and personalized passcodes

Pros

• 24/7 video coverage
• Free truck move-in offers
• Excellent security with personalized passcodes

Cons

• Available in only 200 locations in 13 states
• Factors Affecting the Cost of Storage Units

Different factors affect the cost of storage units. Apart from the location of your units, other essential factors that influence the price of a storage unit include

Climate control

A climate-controlled storage unit will cost more to rent since its installation, maintenance and power demands are higher than regular units. But, you stand to enjoy a climate-controlled unit because outside elements will not affect your items.

Storage Unit Size

The size of your storage unit will determine how much you will spend. Size is one of the significant factors that influence the cost of your unit, no matter the location.

Insurance Coverage

Many companies ask that you insure your belongings before storing them, while others ask for proof before renting a unit. You should note that the storage unit fee does not include insurance costs. But, your storage facility can provide insurance for your belongings too. On average, it costs $10–$12 monthly for a $2,000 insurance and about $30 for a $5,000 coverage.

Certain Facility Charges

Some storage facilities include extra monthly fees like administrative fees. You should also check for taxes that you may incur on monthly rent.

Special Offers

Many storage facilities have special offers for their customers or newcomers. These offers will affect the cost of your unit at different points in time. For instance, SpareFoot offers one-month free storage for members of AAA and even gives out $20 gift cards.

Final Remarks

It would be best if you took the time to examine the different storage facilities available in your area. Compare the offers, pricing, features, services and discounts available in the storage facility of your choice and make sure it suits your needs.