Best Time of Year to Rent a Storage Unit

If you have ever wondered what is the best time of year to rent a storage unit, you are not alone.

The price of storage and the availability of storage and convenience depend on the season, where you live and the local demand for storage facilities.

Like the housing market, self storage goes up and down during the year, affecting the price of storage and what options are available.

Knowing when to rent will save you money, give you a better selection and relieve the pressure of trying to find available storage on a last minute basis. Whether you are in the middle of spring cleaning, moving in the summer or taking care of your clutter left from the holidays, timing of renting storage gives you an advantage.

Effect of Seasons on Storage Rentals

Self storage facilities have a predictable pattern of usage throughout the year. The peak moving season? Between May and September, which is also the time of year when the demand for storage is greatest. This is the time of year when self storage units are generally full because most people are selling homes, downsizing or getting a job promotion and relocation.

As a result of this peak demand in play, the summer months are the busiest months of the year for the self storage industry. To magnify this increase, many students vacate dormitories during the summer months, producing an even greater demand for storage as students need temporary space for personal property until the beginning of the new academic year.

Because of the increase in demand, there is a less supply of storage units, higher prices being charged and little or no discounts that can be negotiated. The best time of year to rent a self storage unit can help you find better deals and more flexibility by avoiding a high demand period.

Spring

Almost everyone starts looking for self storage in the spring. The warmer days and the reason for spring cleaning will bring homeowners to consider self storage. What a good time to take inventory of your belongings and decide on the things to keep, throw out, give away or store!

Spring presents a good combination of availability and pricing. Storage facilities are just beginning to see more bookings. They are not yet to the point of pressure as they would be in the summer rush to get a storage unit. Renting at this time would be good for anyone looking to get ready for a house move or remodel.

You can take advantage of this time of year to get rid of used heavy coats or seasonal decorations that are taking up valuable storage room in your area of the house. This will give you more room without the charge of premium costs.

Summer

The summer months is when storage rental is at its peak. The peak moving month with families, students, and businesses all looking for a storage unit produces a competition for the necessary space.

If you wait until the summer months to arrange a self storage unit, finding one can be difficult, especially if you don't want to overpay.

The self storage industry does raise fees during the summer because of the extreme demand. The heat of the summer is helpful for moving furniture and valuables but while it could be the best time to move, it could be the worst time for costs.

Autumn

In the autumn self storage starts to be available again after the summer rush goes away.

Demand lessens, usually from September through November and this allows for better availability and prices. The fall becomes one of the most flexible and price effective times to rent a self storage unit.

If you are planning a move or renovation, this gives you time for bargaining power to get the best deals. There are many self storage providers that have specials to get new clients at this time. It is also a great time to put in storage furniture or sports equipment or boat equipment before the bad weather.

All in all, for people looking for value and flexibility Autumn is often the best time to rent.

Winter

Winter is often a very quiet season for self storage.

Many people refuse to move in cold weather so demand will be greatly reduced. This means lower prices, specials and greater availability.

If you are looking for value, winter is often a good time to rent. Consider however, weather conditions and the accessibility that you may have to your storage unit.

Snow and ice can inhibit getting into the storage unit. On the up side, storage facilities are typically less busy and the staff tend to find their time more available for your assistance.

It is also convenient to have this time of year to store holiday decorations, lawn furniture and seasonal items until their return in the spring.

The Effect of Location and Availability

The best time of year to rent a storage unit varies greatly depending upon the location. In large cities the storage demand remains high throughout the year because of constant movements in population.

In small towns, better availability and smaller prices can be found away from the summer months.

The Best Way to Save Money on Renting

Regardless of the season, the best thing is to be on the ball. The best time to make a reservation is early, as the choice storage units are the only ones to be had at that time.

Another way to save is to share space with a friend or relative. The cost of a larger space is not as bad after being divided. Both parties will find a better chance for available space for their furniture and personal belongings.

The Best Season Overall

If we were to pick the best season to rent a storage unit we would say autumn as it's the time of the year which balances affordability with availability, it's also a comfortable time of the year for moving furnishings in and out.

However, the best time for storage for you is when you need it