Instances When You Can Use a 5’x10′ Storage Unit

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As a mid-size option at the smaller end of the spectrum, a 5’x10′ storage unit is a superb choice for a wealth of scenarios. More affordable than larger options, yet spacious enough to pack a typical bedroom into, it’s a budget-friendly option for both long- and short-term applications.

Renting a storage unit of this size can prove to be a handy asset during transitional phases, such as relocating, traveling abroad, or construction projects, but it also has plenty of longer-term uses. A 5’x10′ storage unit can easily take the place of a garage or garden shed, especially in a smaller home. Plus, if you’re going for a climate-controlled unit, you’re providing optimal temperature and humidity conditions for your stored items, while providing a higher level of security because this type of unit is typically indoors. Let’s find out more.

Self Storage During Transitional Times

From major life events to temporary disruptions, there are many times of transition that require additional support. Fortunately, a 5’x10′ self storage unit offers the flexibility you need in these instances. Check out these common situations and how self storage can help:

  • Selling your home: A 5’x10′ storage unit allows you to keep your personal items out of the way while staging and decluttering. It’s also a good place to keep extra items until you’re ready to move into your new home.
  • Traveling: Taking a sabbatical or gap year, but planning to return to your apartment later? Keep your most important items safe and sound until you return.

traveling couple sitting by lake

  • Gaining a new family member: Whether it’s a new baby or an elderly parent moving in, you may need to clear space in the spare room. If it has previously been used for hobbies, you can move your supplies and equipment into storage until you can use them again.
  • Storing baby items: If your child has outgrown the crib and other baby items, but you’re considering more children, a 5’x10′ storage unit can be the ideal place to store your baby things in the meantime.
  • Making renovations: Keep your belongings clean and safe during messy renovations, while freeing up space to work efficiently.
  • Inheriting valuable items: Just inherited some precious family heirlooms but have nowhere at home to keep them? Self storage is the answer and can also help if a close relative has passed away and you need to temporarily store their possessions.
  • Relocating a small business: If you’re a small business owner, a 5’x10′ unit can be a good place to temporarily store extra stock, equipment, or paperwork while relocating or expanding.

Self Storage for Creating More Space at Home

Large homes aren’t as affordable as they once were, and many people are opting for a smaller footprint as a result. With less storage space at home, a 5’x10′ unit can be a good alternative in many situations:

  • Storing sports equipment that is only used every so often, such as skis, golf clubs, bicycles and much more
  • Storing seasonal items and clothes, such as bulky winter jackets, boots and holiday decorations
  • Storing supplies and hobby equipment, such as musical instruments, art supplies or craft tools
  • Storing gardening tools, furniture and equipment
  • Storing excess inventory and supplies from a home business
  • Storing family heirlooms that you plan to pass on, like a wedding dress, a good set of china or toys

Your 5’x10’unit might not be huge, but if packed correctly, it can be a remarkably useful asset for those transitional times in life as well as the longer term. With its smaller size, it’s generally far more affordable than larger options. For example, in New York City, New York, rates for a 5’x10′ unit start at just $9/month, compared to $65 for a 10’x10′ unit. Meanwhile, in Seattle, Washington, you can expect to pay as little as $70 for the same unit size, almost half as much as the next size up. Prices in San Antonio, Texas start at $34/month, while in Reno, Nevada prices tend to begin at $60/month, and in Chicago, Illinois, $51/month. Bear in mind, you can normally expect to pay a little more for climate control.

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Mirela Mohan

Mirela is a senior real estate & proptech editor at Yardi, covering property management technology, proptech and the growing role of AI across the built environment for Yardi.com. Outside of work, Mirela enjoys reading, hiking and creating art. You can contact Mirela via email.

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