Pitfalls to Avoid When Renting Storage Space

Pitfalls to Avoid When Renting Storage Space

Obtaining storage seems simple enough: You find a place that rents units and you move your stuff in. Well, it’s almost that easy, as long as you keep a few things in mind and are smart about the process. Avoid some common pitfalls by using our handy little guide:

Calculating Needed Space

Figure out what you plan on storing—specifically, calculate the number and size of your boxes and the total volume of your items. You can do this by multiplying the height by the width by the length of each box. Then multiply that by the number of same-sized boxes.  Do this for every size category and then add all the numbers up to get a total volume. The result will be the minimum size your storage unit should be. Or, if you’d rather save time on this step, check out Moishe’s comprehensive room size calculator. Just click on the items you want to store, and the calculator will automatically updated with the most appropriate unit size. You can even add custom items if your unique possessions aren’t listed. You can also call our storage personnel and they’ll help guide you in selecting the best unit for your needs.

Vet Out Storage Facility

The last thing you want is to get yourself into a storage facility that is not reputable, safe or simply does not meet your needs. Read reviews, carefully examine contracts beforehand and do a walk through of the facility. If everything checks out, then that facility might be the one for you. Moishe’s Self Storage has been providing exceptional service to the NYC and surrounding area for over forty years. Our safe, secure and affordable units are conveniently located in Queens and the Bronx.

Know Exactly the Type of Storage Needed

Some storage facilities are drive-ups, some are climate controlled, some are indoors, some outdoors—all of these are considerations for the renter. Figure out what you prefer and the type of storage best suited for your items.

Take into Account Cost of Transport

When calculating the cost of storage, remember to account for transportation. What would it cost to rent a truck, if needed? Does the facility offer free pickup and drop off? If you don’t have a car, how much in public transport does it cost to get there when you need to stop by and pick up an item? Moishe’s offers free pick up when you commit to at least three months of storage with us. And with our Storage on Demand, we’ll even send over our team of professional movers to pack up, transport and unload your items into storage – for the same price as personal storage!

Consider Getting Insurance

The last thing any renter wants is to have valuables stolen or damaged while in storage. If you are storing anything expensive, look at insurance options and consider purchasing a plan that would cover the cost of valuables.

Put Together a Storage System

Have a system in place for storing and retrieving your items. Think of things you might need for the duration of your contract. Make sure you have those items in a place with easy access within the unit.  Ideally, put together a map of what’s where (and leave that by the entrance) and have your boxes clearly labeled.


Contact Moishe’s Self Storage if you’re looking for cheap storage units in New York City to hold wine, art, or other things. Our Manhattan/The Bronx and Queens/Brooklyn Storage Facilities are conveniently located near you. We offer over 20 different storage unit sizes, available to individuals, students, and businesses. Reserve your room, view specials, or contact us.