Are you getting ready to move to New York City? Are you a long-term Big Apple resident looking to declutter and maximize a small space (after all, the average apartment in NYC is just 940 square feet)?

If you don’t have room for all your belongings or just need a temporary place to stash things while you get acclimated to your new place, renting a storage space in NYC is an excellent option.

Discover here everything you need to know about storage in NYC. Say goodbye to the stress of cramped spaces and hello to a more organized and relaxed lifestyle!

Key Takeaways

  • 1. Get to know the key reasons why storage is a perfect solution for New Yorkers and how the facilities work in NYC.
  • 2. Understand the different types and options of storage units, which offer flexibility to accommodate anything from furniture to personal keepsakes.
  • 3. Full-service storage or self-storage units? Picking the suitable storage solution involves considering factors like the type of items, required accessibility, and budget.
  • 4. Discover the storage costs in NYC and how they can vary based on factors such as location, unit size, and additional services.
  • 5. Efficiently packing and organizing the unit not only maximizes space but also simplifies retrieval, making the most of the storage investment.

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Exploring the World of Storage in NYC

Living in the bustling and vibrant city of New York is an exhilarating experience, full of opportunities and excitement. 

However, with its high cost of living, limited living space, and busy lifestyle, many New Yorkers find themselves struggling to find a suitable place for all their belongings.

That's where storage facilities come to mind, providing a practical and convenient solution for decluttering and optimizing living spaces.

New York City offers a variety of storage options to fit all needs and budgets, ensuring everyone can find the perfect fit.

Top 5 Reasons New Yorkers Need a Storage Solution

Whether you’re in the middle of the move-in process or doing some hard-core decluttering, there are many reasons why you might look for storage options.

Based on our 30-year experience in helping people to move and store all over Ney York City, here are the key reasons we have seen to rent a storage space in the Big Apple:

1. Space Optimization

If you live in NYC, you know that apartments and homes are often smaller compared to those in suburban areas and space is always limited. A storage unit allows you to store items you don't use regularly, such as sports equipment and holiday decorations. This is an effective solution for freeing up valuable living space and reducing clutter. 

2. Seasonal Storage

New York experiences distinct seasons, and storage units are particularly helpful for storing seasonal items. You can stash away all your heavy winter gear during the summer months and switch it out for lighter clothing when it gets colder. This way, you don’t have to sacrifice space in your living areas.

3. Moving and Relocation

Moving within the city or to NYC can be a daunting task. When moving, a storage unit can be a lifesaver. It provides a secure location to store belongings temporarily during the transition, preventing the need to rush through the moving process.

4. Flexibility

Storage facilities offer various unit sizes, allowing you to choose the space that best suits your needs and budget. Whether it's a small locker for a few boxes or a larger unit for furniture and appliances, options are available to accommodate different storage requirements.

5. Security and Peace of Mind

Reputable NYC storage facilities employ advanced security measures such as surveillance cameras, access control systems, and on-site staff, ensuring the customer’s belongings are safe and well-protected.

How do Storage Units Work?

The first step is to understand everything about store services and how they work in NYC. A storage facility is a secure space where you can store your belongings. It's like having your own separate room or locker to keep things safe. There are different sizes, so you can choose one that fits your needs.

In New York City, people mostly use storage units to get extra space for their stuff. It’s also common to opt for the service when they're moving or downsizing. Businesses use them to store inventory or important documents. It's a convenient way to keep your things protected and easily accessible whenever you need them.

Some storage solutions offer more security measures, a wider range of unit sizes, etc. However, the general process is the same wherever you go.

Types of Storage Facilities

Here are some of the most common types of storage facilities in NYC:

  • Drive-up storage: You can easily drive to your unit’s door and load/unload your belongings.
  • Climate-controlled storage: Protect belongings from temperature-related issues like moisture build-up and mold.
  • 24-hour storage: You can access these facilities 24/7.

You may also find storage facilities that specialize in helping students, military personnel, owners of large vehicles, etc.

Full-Service vs. Self-Storage Units

When most people think of storage units, they think of self-storage options. These solutions often allow you to drive up and access your belongings whenever you want. The employees are relatively hands-off and are mainly responsible for monitoring people’s comings and goings.

Full-service storage, on the other hand, offers additional services. For example, it includes movers who will pack and transport your belongings to the storage unit. They will also load and deliver your items to you when you want or need them.

Check out all the differences between the services:

Full-Service Storage

Self-Storage Units

Professional movers to transport your items

Pick-up & Delivery of your belongings

24/7/365 Security

Packing services

Packing supplies 

Digital inventory of your items

Fully Insured


Additional Full-Service Storage Advantages

  • Less work on your end (items get picked up and delivered directly to your door)
  • Get help moving heavy or bulky items like pianos, furniture, etc.
  • Many companies offer flexible scheduling times for pick-up and delivery

How to Choose the Right Storage Solution

Regardless of your reason for wanting a storage unit, you must choose the right storage company to ensure your belongings stay safe and that you can navigate the pick-up process without a lot of hassle. 

When it comes to the available options, New York City has plenty. There are approx. 31,102 storage units in the city. However, if you seek a reliable, trustworthy, and convenient storage service, the number of options can be significantly lower.

Some of the most important aspects of choosing storage solutions in NYC are discussed below.

Benefits of Full-service Storage

One of the first things to think about is the specific features you want, such as drive-up access, climate-controlled storage units, packing and unpacking assistance, long-term leases, etc.

As New Yorkers are known for their busy and hectic schedules, full-service storage is a more comprehensive solution. The option offers the following features:

  • Convenience: The primary advantage of full-service storage is the level of convenience it provides. Instead of transporting your items to a storage facility, a team of professionals handles everything for you. They pick up your belongings from your location, pack them securely, and transport them to the storage facility.
  • Time-Saving: In a city where time is a precious commodity, full-service storage saves you valuable hours that would have been spent loading and unloading your items. With a full-service solution, you can focus on other priorities while leaving the logistics to the experts.
  • Professional Packing: Full-service storage companies employ skilled packers who know how to protect delicate items properly. They use appropriate packing materials to safeguard your belongings during transportation and storage.
  • Inventory Management: Full-service storage providers often maintain detailed inventories of your stored items. This means you can easily access a list of your belongings and request specific items for delivery without the need to visit the storage facility.
  • Flexible Retrieval and Delivery: With full-service storage, you can request the return of specific items or your entire inventory to your doorstep with just a few clicks or a phone call. This level of flexibility is particularly beneficial for busy professionals and those who require access to their belongings on short notice.

In addition to the previously mentioned features, when you're looking for a storage unit in NYC, there are other important things to consider. Keep the following in mind to make sure you will find the perfect solution for your needs.

How Much Does Storage Cost in NYC?

Storage costs in NYC vary based on factors like storage locations, unit sizes, and whether you choose full-service or self-storage facilities.

While prices vary, on average, New Yorker pays approximately $60 per month for a 5x5-foot unit (which is about the size of a walk-in closet). For a 10x10-foot unit, you can expect to pay around $250 per month.

If you take your time and are willing to compare quotes from multiple locations, it’ll be easier to find options that meet your individual storage needs and budget.

You can get a free quote from Oz Moving in just a few minutes.

Popular Storage Space Sizes

Storage unit sizes should also contribute to your decision about which service to use. Here’s a brief storage unit size guide to help you choose:

  • 5x5-foot (25 square feet)
  • 5x10-foot (50 square feet)
  • 10x10-foot (100 square feet)
  • 10x15-foot (150 square feet)
  • 10x20-foot (200 square feet)
  • 10x30-foot (300 square feet)

The first three options (5x5, 5x10, and 10x10) are some of the most popular options. They can generally hold belongings from a 1, 2, or 3-bedroom home, respectively.

If you’re storing items from larger properties, or if you have bigger items, the extra square footage in the last three options might be more beneficial.

Long-Term and Short-Term Storage Options

Next, decide if you’re looking for short-term or long-term storage in NYC. Do you just need to stash your belongings for a couple of months while you declutter or renovate, or do you need to keep things safe for several months or years?

Generally, assuming you don’t fall behind on your payments, you can keep your belongings in a storage locker as long as you want (and as long as the business is open, of course).

If you don’t make payments for several months in a row, you may lose access to the unit, and the facility may even auction off the belongings left behind.

Packing and Organizing a Storage Unit

To maximize the benefits of your storage unit, make sure you pack and organize it properly. Don’t just toss items in there and hope that you’ll be able to find them when retrieval time arrives.

Here are some specific strategies you can use when packing and organizing your storage space:

Tips for Preparing Items for Storage

Start by gathering packing supplies (including moving boxes and tape) to keep your items safe from dust, moisture, bugs, etc.

Thoroughly clean everything before packing it and taking it to the storage unit. Label all your boxes clearly, too, and create an inventory so you know what’s stored in the unit and where, specifically, it’s located.

Store items in the unit strategically. Place large or heavy items at the back (and don’t stack them on top of other belongings). Put smaller items on top of larger ones, and store things you’ll need soon toward the front so you don’t have to dig for them.

Items That May Be Good to Store

Mattresses, old furniture, old appliances, and valuables or antiques are all good items to keep in storage units. As the weather changes dramatically in NYC with each season, keeping seasonal clothing and accessories there will also help to free up space in your home until you need them.

Things You Should Never Keep in Storage

While you can store lots of items safely in a storage unit, there are also some that you should keep out. Examples include firearms, perishable food, flammable items, and items that will give off a strong odor.

Many facilities have rules specifically prohibiting these belongings, so be sure to check the guidelines before storing your things there.

Enjoy the Benefits of a Full-Service Storage Service

If you are a New York City resident – or planning to become one – we advise you to invest in the convenience and peace of mind that full-service storage offers.

Keep this guide information in mind so you can make the right decision, organize your belongings properly, and keep them safe until you’re ready to retrieve them.

Get in touch today to learn more about full-service storage in NYC or to get a free quote.

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