What to know before renting a storage unit

More and more people are discovering the convenience of a storage unit. It offers a flexible way to safely store belongings for a short or longer period. Whether moving, planning a renovation, or just needing extra space at home, a storage unit can bring peace of mind. 

For those without a car, some providers even offer a service where your belongings in need of storage are picked up and returned, so belongings are safely stored without the need for transport. Still, it is important to consider in advance which location, size, security, and rental terms suit your needs best, to avoid unwanted surprises later.

What is a storage unit?

A storage unit is an individual, lockable space within a self-storage facility. Renters have their own access to place or retrieve items. A storage unit falls under the broader term “storage space” and is used by both individuals and businesses. 

People store furniture, boxes, clothing, and seasonal items, while businesses often use units for inventory or archives. Storage units are clean, dry, and well-ventilated, protecting items from moisture and mold. Each unit has its own access method, such as a key, code, or pass, ensuring privacy and security.

What do you need to rent a storage unit?

To rent a storage unit, a valid ID, contact details, and a payment method are required. Businesses often need to provide company information, such as registration numbers and tax details. Sometimes a deposit is needed, along with administration fees or a charge for an access pass or smart lock. It’s important to carefully read the rental terms, including notice periods, options for changing box size mid-term, and any extra costs. This ensures clarity and avoids unexpected surprises.

What can you store?

Almost anything that is not hazardous or perishable can be stored in a unit. Suitable items include furniture, boxes, clothing, tools, small inventory, and archives. Certain items are prohibited, such as flammable materials, hazardous chemicals, food that may attract pests, and living beings. It’s wise to label boxes, keep an inventory list, and maintain a clear path inside the unit for easy access.

Tip: You may never use a storage unit as a living space or office; it’s prohibited.

Storage unit vs. storage space: the quick difference

‘Storage space’ is a broad term covering different storage options, such as self-storage, full-service storage, and warehouses for businesses. A storage unit is an individual space within a self-storage facility with direct renter access. 

Individual units: privacy and security

A storage unit is private, featuring sturdy walls and a lockable door with a bolt or lock. During a visit, check the: 

• Condition of the doors
• Wall height
• Visibility in the corridors
• Lighting
• Camera coverage

The renter’s own lock determines responsibility for the contents and insurance coverage, so keys and codes should be kept safe, and people with access-permission should be carefully chosen and registered.

What does a storage unit cost per month?

Prices vary widely, depending on location, insurance, deposit, transport, ongoing promotions, minimum rental period, additional services, included VAT, and supply and demand. 

Pay attention to what services are included, as this can make the price appear higher or lower than it really is. Online promotions or longer-term deals can also offer savings. If access is infrequent, a more distant location may be cheaper. The most straightforward way to reduce costs is to avoid renting a unit that is larger than necessary. Efficient but safe packing helps reduce the space required.

In the table below, you can find an overview of the average prices for a storage unit in the Netherlands. Exclusive of utilities and one-off fees.

Location	Storage box size	Indicative monthly rent (without discounts)	Indicative extra fees: deposit, administration, insurance, transport, etc.
Urban	3 m² / 7,5 m³  (≈ 32 ft² / 265 ft³)	€50 – €80	€0 – €200
	6 m² / 15m³  (≈ 65 ft² / 530 ft³)	€120 – €250
	12 m² / 30 m³  (≈ 129 ft² / 1059 ft³)	€200 – €500
Rural	3 m² / 7,5 m³  (≈ 32 ft² / 265 ft³)	€40 – €60
	6 m² / 15m³  (≈ 65 ft² / 530 ft³)	€60 – €130
	12 m² / 30 m³  (≈ 129 ft² / 1059 ft³)	€150 – €250

Costs with electricity/power

Some storage boxes offer electricity for limited use, such as charging tools or executing small errands. Costs may be included, have their own tariff or may be charged separately. Always check what is allowed regarding the placement of outlets and the maximum charge they provide. This can often be arranged during the reservation process.

One-off fees: deposit & admin

Renting a storage unit often comes with some one-off costs. Sometimes no deposit is required, but when it is, it usually ranges from €50 to €150, depending on the unit size and location. The deposit is refunded once the unit is empty, clean, and undamaged, including keys or access codes. 

Administration fees for setting up the contract and providing an access pass or smart lock typically range from €10 to €25. Occasionally, an end-of-lease cleaning or other service fee of up to €30 may apply, for example if the unit must be left empty and tidy. 

Booking online or taking advantage of current promotions can often reduce these costs. It’s important to check when fees are charged, whether at the start of the rental or only at the end.

How to pick the right storage unit size?

Choosing the right unit depends on floor area and height. By stacking items efficiently but not too high and disassembling large furniture, you can often use a smaller unit. Make an inventory list, measure large items, and calculate the total space required. Check availability for the desired size and whether mid-term adjustments are possible. If later you need more or less space, most providers allow switching without additional administration fees.

What size do I need?

BOXIE24 provides an online storage calculator. Enter the items to be stored including boxes, furniture, bicycles, or archives and the system provides an immediate estimate of size and price. That way, you don’t have to go twisting and turning around your items with your measuring tape. Give it a try here.

If calculating manually has your preference, make an inventory list, note item dimensions, and estimate total volume. Add 10 to 15 percent extra space for walkways and packing.

Guideline per size:

• 1-2 m² (3-5 m³): for 10 to 15 moving boxes, suitcases or small furniture
• 3-5 m² (7-12 m³): for the contents of a studio or small appartment
• 7-10 m² (15-25 m³): for an apartment with one or two bedrooms or a small business inventory
• 10-15 m² (30-40 m³): for the full contents of a family home or bigger storage needs

If you find it difficult to estimate how much space you need, you can ask yourself the following questions to get an estimate:

• Do you primarily have boxes, suitcases or small interior items? → Yes: 1~2 m² / No: ↓
• Do you need to store the contents of one room or a small apartment? → Yes: 3~5 m² / No: ↓
• Do you need to store the contents of an entire home (max ±80 m²)? → Yes: 7~10 m² / No: ↓
• Do you need to store the contents of a family home or large business inventory? → Yes: 10~15 m² or larger is required

Doors & accessibility

Accessibility is important for convenience and efficiency when loading or unloading. Most facilities have aisles between units that are at least 1.2 to 1.5 meters wide allowing easy movement with trolleys or hand trucks. 

Unit doors are usually 90 to 120 cm wide and 200 to 220 cm high, sufficient for standard furniture such as sofas, cabinets, and boxes. Opening hours vary; some locations offer 24/7 access while others are only open during office hours. 

Lifts are available for upper floors with a maximum capacity of 300 to 500 kg to safely move heavy items. 

Covered loading zones are useful in rain or snow, and trolleys are generally free to use, which makes loading and unloading easier.

Ventilation & dry/clean storage climate

Proper ventilation prevents moisture and mould which is especially important for wooden furniture, clothing, and paper. Climate-controlled units maintain temperatures between approximately 10 and 29 degrees Celsius and stable humidity. When visiting, check for damp spots, mouldy smells, or dusty corners. Dehumidifiers and ventilation channels should be functioning. For extra protection, moisture absorbers or silica packs can be used, often starting at five euros per set, which significantly extends the life of stored items.

Space-saving packing tips

Smart packing allows renting a smaller unit and saving on monthly costs. 

Use stackable containers: costing around 3 to 10 euros each, they make vertical storage possible without collapse.

Disassemble furniture: disassembling and laying flat large furniture saves floor space; for example, a bed frame can save up to 1.5 m².

Fill drawers: fill drawers and cabinets with smaller items and label everything clearly.

Leave a walkway: leave a walkway of at least 60 cm to access all items.

Following this advice, even a 3 m² unit can safely store the contents of a small one-room apartment.

How to know if a storage unit is secure?

The security of a storage unit depends on multiple factors. Around the facility, fences, lighting, and access gates provide a sense of security, while inside the building, staff presence and rules about who may enter add extra oversight. 

The unit itself is also important; the quality of the lock and door largely determines how well the contents are protected. 

Since not every facility offers the same security features, a tour of the location is highly recommended to observe how everything works in practice. Customer reviews can give an additional realistic perspective, highlighting incidents such as theft, staff behavior, or response times to problems. 

Security measures can also affect insurance coverage and premiums, so understanding the protection provided helps ensure your belongings are properly safeguarded.

CCTV, alarm & access control

Some storage facilities offer additional security features such as CCTV cameras that record entries and exits, alarms that respond to burglary or fire, and access control via pass, PIN code, or app. 

During a visit, it is useful to ask which options are available and how they are used in practice. This provides a clear idea of the security measures in place and allows for better-informed decisions without having to guess.

Lock and bolt: own cylinder or smart lock

The way the unit is secured can vary. Often, there is a choice between a traditional cylinder lock and a smart lock. Cylinder locks are reliable and give full control over who has access to the unit. Smart locks are useful when multiple people need access, as they allow tracking of who opens the unit and when. 

Always check the quality of the door and lock, and decide in advance who will have access. Not every facility offers both options, so it is advisable to confirm this when booking.

Insurance & liability

Insurance is another important aspect of storage security. Some people extend their existing home insurance, while others choose insurance provided by the storage facility. 

It is essential to check exactly what is covered, such as theft, fire, or water damage, and any exclusions. Valuable items may require a separate declaration. 

In case of an incident, report it immediately. Facility liability usually only applies in cases of negligence, such as when a door is left unsecured. Checking security and insurance beforehand ensures clarity on responsibilities and what must be arranged personally.

How does renting a storage unit work?

Renting a storage unit is quite a straightforward process that can be completed in just a few steps:

1. Gather information and visit the facility:

Start by researching storage facilities in your area. Request information about available unit sizes, pricing, and features. If possible, visit the location in person to check its cleanliness, accessibility, and security. Take time to inspect the hallways, lighting, and ventilation, and ask questions about emergency procedures and safety measures.

2. Prepare and review the necessary documents:

Before renting, you’ll need to provide certain documents. 

• Private renters typically need a valid form of identification, proof of current address, and payment details
• Business customers may also need to provide a company registration certificate and VAT number

3. Sign the rental agreement:

Once everything is verified, you’ll sign a rental agreement. This document outlines important details such as the rental period, monthly costs, access rights, and any additional services offered by the facility.

4. Receive access instructions:

After signing, you’ll receive instructions on how to access your unit. Depending on the facility, this might involve a physical key, a digital access code, or a smartphone app for smart-lock units. In most cases, you can start using your unit right away.

5. Move in and manage payments:

Once you have access, you can begin storing your belongings. Rental fees are usually billed monthly, often through automatic payments such as direct debit or bank transfer.

6. Make adjustments if needed:

Many storage providers offer flexibility, allowing you to switch to a different unit size or add services during your rental period. Any changes are typically charged on a pro-rata basis.

7. Keep communication clear:

Maintain copies of your documents and stay in touch with the facility’s staff if you have questions or need assistance. Clear agreements and ongoing communication help prevent misunderstandings and ensure a smooth rental experience.

Agreement & notice period

Rental contracts are often cancellable on a monthly basis, though some facilities offer discounts for longer fixed-term contracts. The notice period is usually one month and you can submit it either in writing or via the facility’s online portal. If you require additional space or services partway through the rental period, adjustments can often be made without extra administration fees. The rent will then be adjusted on a pro-rata basis. 

It is important to have all agreements and the official terms, both existing and newly adjusted, reviewed and documented in writing. This provides clarity and security if any issues arise during the rental period.

Payment & invoice

Rental fees are typically paid monthly in advance, either by direct debit, bank transfer, or card. Invoices detail the base rent, any electricity charges, insurance, and VAT. Free services such as the use of trolleys or parking spaces are usually listed separately. 

For business customers, invoices are issued in the company name with correct VAT information, allowing direct entry into accounting records. Automatic payment reminders help prevent extra costs or access restrictions in case of late payment.

Terms & privacy

Important terms and conditions include:

• Following safety rules
• Prohibiting the use of units as living or work spaces
• Prohibiting the storage of dangerous or forbidden items

CCTV footage and access logs are only accessible to authorised staff and are stored in accordance with legal retention periods. Complaints or disputes can generally be submitted through the facility’s website or via email, with a reasonable response time.

Prohibited items & legal use

Items that are not allowed include:

• Flammable substances
• Gas bottles
• Chemicals
• Perishable foods
• Living creatures

Additionally, a storage unit may never be used as a home or office. Violations can lead to termination of the rental agreement, removal of items at the renter’s expense, and nullification of any insurance coverage.

Reviews & reputation

Reviews provide valuable insight into what a facility is like in practice. It is important not only to look at the average rating, but also the recency of reviews and the consistency of experiences across multiple locations. This helps determine whether a positive experience is typical or an isolated case. 

Beware of the following red flags: 

• Reports of theft
• Unhelpful or rude staff
• Slow or unclear responses to complaints

A trial visit can reveal much about the day-to-day operation of a facility. During this visit, attention should be paid to cleanliness, crowding during loading and unloading, visibility and operation of safety features, and the professionalism of the staff. Transparent communication is also a strong indicator of reliability. Responses to information requests should be timely, and price quotes should be clearly written and easy to understand.

Conclusion

Renting a storage unit is a convenient and flexible solution for keeping belongings safe, whether it involves furniture, boxes, seasonal items, or archive materials. By carefully considering the right location, size, accessibility, and security, you can ensure that your items are well protected and that unexpected costs are avoided. 

Using an inventory list or an online tool makes it easy to estimate the storage unit size needed, and by packing efficiently, the available space can be optimally used. The rental process is generally clear and flexible, with well-defined agreements regarding payment, notice periods, and interim changes.

At BOXIE24, we provide extra convenience by not just offering storage space, but full-service storage where belongings are collected, stored, and returned. Even without personal transport, remote storage is always possible, making the storage experience as simple and stress-free as possible.