WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN YOUR IDEAL STORAGE FACILITY

ulok • April 2, 2019

So, you’ve decided to take charge, clear out some space in your home and put the extra belongings in an off-site storage locker? Smart choice! Next, figure out your Ideal Storage Facility which you can trust with your belongings.

Vancouver is growing at breakneck speed, and people’s need for storage is increasing with it. While numerous businesses offer storage services, some of them provide more bang for your buck, better service and security. In this article, we will outline the main things to check for when considering a storage facility:

Just the right size for you?

Storage needs vary from person to person, so does the size of storage space they need. Does the facility have different sizes to accommodate your unique needs? At U-Lok, we have 50+ different sizes of units that we can recommend based on your needs, this ensures that you are paying for the space you need. Just contact us, give a brief description of your goods to be stored, and we will get you the right size!

Does the height matter?

We usually think of lockers in terms of square foot area. However, having a high ceiling in your storage locker can be a big benefit. Cramped for space in your 5’ x 5’ locker? Stack up your boxes up to the top in our 10’ high lockers at U-Lok. Most facilities have 7’ – 8’ high ceilings and comparable rates to places that offer higher ceilings. Don’t we all want a little bit extra for the same amount of money?

P.S – According to fire laws, if your units have sprinklers inside, you are not allowed to store anything within 18 inches below the sprinkler. Something to consider when you are shopping around.

Is it secure?

Here at U-Lok, we believe that security, where you are storing, is a top priority.  All lockers in our facility are individually alarmed, a feature that some other facilities lack. Your personalized access code disables the unit alarm, and also allows elevators to take you to your floor, ensuring only U-Lok customers have access to the floors.

Check out the walls and ceilings.  Our lockers have either concrete or metal ceilings, plus all metal walls and roll-up doors.  For added security, our walls go all the way up to the ceiling, with no space at the top. Some facilities have large spaces between the wall and ceiling, with chicken wire across the top, leaving your belongings visible to your neighbours.

Is access easy?

Does the facility have a private parking lot? Does it have carts for you to use when you are taking things to and from the locker?  How about a loading dock for your big moving truck? Downtown U-Lok checks all these boxes! We take pride in making your experience at our facility as easy and hassle-free as possible.

Some facilities require you to carry your goods up to a moving ladder with a platform to access your ‘sky’ or top tier unit?   At U-Lok, all our lockers are ground floor accessible, no stairs or ladders required.

An ideal storage facility will have a multitude of solutions that will fit your needs, secure lockers and easy access. We hope this article has helped you realize the importance of a suitable storage facility. If you are ready to put your extra household items, seasonal things or your small business inventory into storage, we’d love to talk!

By Ray Wang July 9, 2026
Self storage is a flexible solution for moving, downsizing, renovating, or creating extra space at home. But people often have the same practical questions before renting a storage unit . Below are answers to some of the most common ones. Can you sleep in self storage? No. You cannot legally or safely sleep in a self storage unit . Storage facilities are not designed for living. Self storage units typically lack ventilation, plumbing, and emergency exits required for occupancy. Our rental agreement explicitly prohibits living or sleeping in storage units. Please do not sleep in a storage unit for your own personal well-being. What should you not leave in a storage unit? There are several categories of items that should never go into storage: Perishable food (it attracts pests) Live animals or plants Flammable or explosive materials (gasoline, propane, fireworks) Illegal items Open or unsecured liquids that can leak Hazardous chemicals not approved by the facility Even if something seems harmless, if it can spoil, leak, or attract pests, it’s best to keep it out of storage. Is it safe to put a bed in a storage unit? Yes, storing a bed is generally safe, but preparation matters. To protect it properly: Disassemble the frame if possible Wrap the mattress in a breathable mattress cover (not plastic long-term) Store off the ground using pallets or a platform Avoid placing heavy items on top This helps prevent moisture buildup, dust, and warping over time. Is it safe to leave clothes in a storage unit? Absolutely Clothes can be safely stored if they are packed correctly. Best practices include: Using sealed plastic bins or wardrobe boxes Washing and fully drying clothes beforehand Adding moisture absorbers (like silica gel or desiccants) Avoiding vacuum sealing delicate fabrics for long periods What can you fit in a 5x5 storage unit? A 5x5 unit (about 25 square feet) is roughly the size of a small closet. It’s ideal for: Several boxes Seasonal clothing Small furniture pieces (chairs, nightstands) Sports equipment A mattress set (twin or full, depending on layout) It’s typically used for light storage, dorm items, or decluttering a single room. If you have any questions about storage unit sizes, please use our storage size guide or get in touch and one of our team members will be happy to help. How much does it cost to put everything in storage? The cost of storing “everything” depends on how much space you need. For a full household, most people end up needing medium to large units or even multiple units.  Typical cost factors include: Storage unit size Temperature control Supply and demand If you have any questions about self storage, please contact us and we’ll be happy to answer any questions you have. Self storage is a practical and flexible solution, but what you store and how you store it makes a big difference. Avoid prohibited items, prepare belongings properly, and choose the right unit size to keep your items safe and accessible. If you have further questions, please get in touch and the Downtown U-Lok Storage team will be thrilled to help you.
By Ray Wang July 1, 2026
Summer is a time for adventure, travel, and making memories. Whether you’re flying abroad, going on a road trip, or visiting family for the season, one challenge often comes up: what to do with your belongings while you’re away. For many people, especially those living in apartments, dorms, or smaller homes, leaving items unattended can be stressful. This is where renting a self storage unit comes in.  Keep Your Home Clutter-Free and Safe One of the key benefits of self storage is that it keeps your home organized while you’re away. Packing your apartment with luggage, summer gear, or seasonal items can create unnecessary clutter, making your return less relaxing. By storing items in a storage facility, you can leave your home as it is, ensuring it stays tidy and ready for your return. Additionally, self storage provides peace of mind by keeping your belongings safe. Jewelry, sentimental items, personal documents, and other valuable items are protected in a controlled environment, reducing the risk of damage, theft, or exposure to weather conditions. Free Up Space for Your Travel Plans For those living in smaller apartments, dorms, or shared housing, space can be limited. Renting a storage unit allows you to temporarily move bulky items such as furniture, sports equipment, or seasonal clothing out of the way. This not only frees up your living space but also makes packing and preparing for travel much easier. You can travel light without worrying about what to do with the rest of your belongings. Flexible and Convenient Options Self storage is often flexible, offering short-term rentals that align perfectly with summer travel plans. Whether you need storage for a few weeks or several months, you can choose a unit size that fits your needs. Ideal for Students and Seasonal Residents Students and seasonal residents, in particular, benefit from self storage during the summer months. If you’re moving out of student housing or a temporary apartment, storage offers a perfect place for your belongings until the next lease or school year begins. It eliminates the need to move everything back home or pay for expensive shipping. Protect Your Valuables While You Travel Traveling often comes with the concern of leaving personal belongings unattended. A storage unit ensures your items are protected in a monitored facility, allowing you to enjoy your summer adventures. Temperature-controlled units also protect sensitive items such as electronics, artwork, or important documents from damage caused by heat or humidity. If you have any questions about renting self storage during your summer vacation, please reach out and we will be more than happy to help.
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