Sometimes, you need a little space to put your stuff. When you find yourself needing a little extra space to store your things, a self-storage unit is a good solution to your problems. A self-storage unit provides you with the space to safely store your things, either for the short or the long term. When looking for a storage unit, there are a few factors and considerations you will want to keep in mind.

1. Size

First, you are going to need to know what size storage unit to rent. Most storage units offer a pretty standard list of sizes, ranging from a small 5x5 unit to a large 10x15 unit similar to a one-car garage. If you look at different storage facilities in your area, you will see that they offer many of the same-sized units.

The key is to know what size you need. If you have a hard time visualizing space, put down some tape with the measurements you think you need, and see if your stuff fits. Keep in mind that in addition to the footprint on the ground, you will have some vertical space to take advantage of as well.

Once you know what size unit you want, you will want to find a facility that has that size unit available.

2. Indoor or Outdoor

Some storage units have outside entrances so that you can drive up to them and roll open the door like you would with a garage. Other storage units offer a combination of drive-up units and inside units. The drive-up units are located on the exterior of the building, and the inside ones are in the interior. Other facilities offer only indoor units.

With those indoor units, you can also get climate or non-climate-controlled units. If you are storing any sensitive items you don't want to be disturbed, you will want to consider a climate-controlled unit.

3. Location

Third, you need to consider the location of the facility. You want the location to be somewhere that is convenient and easy for you to access. What that means depends upon your needs. Maybe you want a location that is right near your house, or maybe you want a location that is along your daily commute. You want it to be easy to get to the unit and access it when you want to.

4. Pricing

Finally, you are going to want to consider the pricing of the unit. Pricing can be dependent upon how long you sign a lease; generally, a month-to-month lease will cost you more than a long-term contract. You may also pay more for a facility with a prime location.

When looking for a storage unit to put your extra stuff in that you don't need regular access to, you will want to consider how much space you need, if you want an indoor or outdoor unit, and if you want a climate-controlled unit. You are also going to want to take the location and pricing into consideration as well. Thinking about all of these things should help you rent a suitable unit for your needs.