Did you know that America has more self-storage units than McDonald’s restaurants? It might sound crazy, but it’s true!

Fortunately, this means that finding the best storage unit might not be as tough as you think.

No matter what type of storage unit you’re after, we have the tips you need to find the best possible deal. Make sure to keep reading so you know how to start your search!

Take a Personal Inventory

A cursory look into the world of storage units shows how tough it can be to find the perfect fit. To narrow your search, it’s recommended that you have a comprehensive understanding of what you’ll need to stow away.

Whether you’re after short-term storage during a home relocation or you’re interested in keeping your belongings at a facility for the foreseeable future, you have options.

Write out everything you’ll plan to store. It might sound tedious, but you’ll have a better understanding of which types of storage you’ll need to look for.

Once you’ve completed your list, start organizing your belongings by item type. This can help you determine if you’ll need climate-controlled storage for certain items like furniture.

Get Multiple Quotes

To a smart homeowner, the best storage facility is synonymous with the best pricing. Yet finding great pricing isn’t always easy. But, as is the case with most things in life, the best way to get what you need is to simply ask.

Start by reading reviews online. Once you’ve found a facility that customers vouch for, send them an email about pricing.

This is where your list will come in handy. Since you’ll have a good idea of what you need to store, finding the best space-to-price ratio should be significantly easier.

Once you have a few quotes, you should be able to determine the best price.

Factor in Access

Putting all of your belongings in a storage unit is step one. Whether you’re looking for a place to keep your stuff for a little while or an extended period, it’s important to account for a storage company’s hours of operation.

For example, some companies operate on a standard nine-to-five schedule. Storage options elsewhere, however, may allow for 24/7 access, so you can get to your belongings any time, any day.

Ask About Security

24/7 access to your belongings sounds great, doesn’t it? But it also means that anyone with an access card can wander into the storage facility at will. Even with a padlock on your storage unit, you might not always feel safe leaving your treasured items tucked away.

Thankfully, most storage businesses are well aware of the potential risk and offer on-site security.

What that security looks like will vary from business to business, so be sure to ask as you gather quotes.

If nothing else, most businesses at least have a surveillance system along with a roaming guard, so rest assured you’ll be okay.

How to Choose the Best Storage Unit for Your Budget

As you can see, there’s a lot more that goes into finding the best storage unit than people tend to think. But with a little bit of prep work and a clear understanding of your needs, you can find a great unit at a great price.

Want more fun tips to help you save money every day? Check out our lifestyle and finance sections to find out how you make every dollar count.