Tips and Tools:

Student Storage Overview

Look around. Do you have valuables you want to keep nearby that you don’t want your roommate to be able to access? Winter clothing you’d like to store somewhere so you have more room in your closet for the spring stuff? Ski or sports equipment? A place to put your belongings in the summer so you don’t have to move it all the way back home when you head off for your summer internship?
You were smart about the school you chose; you were smart about roommate choice. Now it’s time to be smart about storage.
How do you get the best deal for your needs? Get out your notebook, call some storage companies, and get ready to take some notes.

• Check the storage facility’s security offerings. Are there cameras? Fences? Is there 24/7 or late night security on staff?
• Can you access the facility 24 hours a day? Is a security guard around during the evening hours?
• Note any sign-up or administrative fees and make sure you know what the rules are concerning deposit returns.
• How long is your agreement for? Is your first/and or last month prorated?
• Does the facility provide discounts to students? Super savvy renters search in advance for internet deals and mobile specials and take advantage of the best rates.
• Do you need to provide your own lock?
• What happens to your stuff if you forget to pay or your credit card payment doesn’t go through?
• Are there late payment fees?
• What is the monthly rental fee? Are there other included costs, like insurance or deposits?
• What is safe to store in the unit? Some items, like illegal objects or gasoline, might be completely banned. Don’t store them! Other item, such as electronics or computer equipment, are fine to store, but they need special care. Your facility manager can help you determine whether or not you need a climate controlled unit.

Think of your storage unit like a big closet. You want the things you need most to be most accessible. Be strategic. Add shelves. Leave spaces between boxes so you can walk through the unit. Label boxes and keep a “finding aid” list detailing your boxes and their contents. Keep this list on your computer so you can find items quickly. If you have a smartphone or tablet, consider purchasing an app that combines notes with pictures of your belongings in order to create this list more quickly.
In college, space is always at a premium. But when you store unneeded items strategically, you’ll always have everything you need right at your fingertips—and you’ll still have room to have a great time.

Even better? We have locations all over Illinois, so your belongings are never far from home.