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 • September 29, 2026
If you’re moving, downsizing, or looking to gain more space in your 2-bedroom apartment, consider renting a storage unit . A storage unit is a convenient solution for storing items in your 2-bedroom apartment. More, choosing the right storage unit size can help you save money while ensuring your belongings fit comfortably and remain easy to access. For most 2-bedroom apartments, the recommended storage unit sizes are 10 x 10 storage unit and 10 x 20 storage unit . The right choice depends on the size of your apartment, the amount of furniture you own, how long you'll need storage, and your overall storage needs. Best Storage Unit Sizes for a 2-Bedroom Apartment 10x10 Storage Unit A 10 x 10 storage unit provides 100 square feet of storage space , making it one of the most popular options for apartment renters. Comparable in size to a small bedroom, this storage unit can typically hold the contents of a standard 2-bedroom apartment. A 10x10 storage unit can often accommodate: Bedroom furniture, including mattresses and bed frames Sofas, chairs, and coffee tables Dining room furniture Appliances such as refrigerators and washer-dryer sets Patio furniture Sports and recreational equipment Multiple moving boxes and storage bins A 10 x 10 unit is often ideal for individuals, small families, or renters who need short-term storage during a move. 10 x 20 Storage Unit A 10 x 20 storage unit offers 200 square feet of storage space, providing additional room for larger furniture, extra boxes, and easier organization. A 10 x 20 storage unit can typically fit: Two complete bedroom sets Living room furniture Dining room tables and chairs Home office furniture Appliances Outdoor equipment and tools Seasonal items and hobby gear This size is often recommended for couples, larger households, or anyone planning to store their belongings for an extended period. If you're unsure between the two sizes, please feel free to use our size guide or get in touch with the Downtown U-Lok Storage team and we will be happy to answer any questions you may have. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Storage Unit Apartment Size The average 2-bedroom apartment can range from approximately 800 to 1,200 square feet, but sizes vary considerably. Larger apartments often contain more furniture and belongings, which may make a 10 x 20 unit the better choice. Amount of Belongings One of the biggest factors in determining storage needs is the volume of items you plan to store. Someone with a minimalist lifestyle may comfortably fit everything into a 10x10 unit, while a household with additional furniture, décor, and recreational equipment such as a bicycle or a snowboard may benefit from a 10x20 unit. Before renting a unit, consider decluttering unwanted items to reduce storage costs. Furniture and Appliances Large furniture pieces and appliances take up a significant amount of space. Beds, sectional sofas, dining sets, desks, and appliances can quickly fill a storage unit. Disassembling furniture whenever possible can help maximize available storage space and improve organization. How Long You'll Need Storage Short-term storage during a move may allow you to pack items more tightly into a 10x10 unit. For long-term storage, a 10x20 unit often provides additional flexibility and room for organization. Lifestyle and Storage Goals Think about what you're storing beyond everyday household furniture. Seasonal decorations, sporting equipment, hobby supplies, business inventory, and outdoor gear can all increase the amount of space you need. If you expect your storage needs to grow, renting a slightly larger unit can be a worthwhile investment. Tips for Packing a 2-Bedroom Apartment Storage Unit Disassemble Large Furniture Taking apart bed frames, tables, shelving units, and desks can save significant space and make loading easier. Use Vertical Space Stack boxes carefully and utilize shelving when possible. Place heavier items on the bottom and lighter items on top. Label Every Box Clearly label boxes by room or category. Creating an inventory list can also help you quickly locate items later. Protect Fragile Items Wrap glassware, electronics, artwork, and collectibles in protective packing materials such as bubble wrap, moving blankets, or packing paper. Leave a Walkway Creating a small aisle inside your storage unit makes it easier to access items without unpacking the entire unit. Frequently Asked Questions Should I choose a 10x10 or 10x20 storage unit? A 10x10 storage unit is often sufficient for the contents of a standard 2-bedroom apartment. A 10x20 unit is better suited for larger apartments, additional furniture, long-term storage, or renters who want extra room for organization. How many bedrooms can fit in a 10x10 storage unit? A 10x10 storage unit can typically hold the furniture and belongings from two average-sized bedrooms, along with additional household items and boxes. How many moving boxes does a 2-bedroom apartment require? The number of moving boxes depends on the amount of belongings you own. Many 2-bedroom apartments require approximately 20 small boxes, 15 medium boxes, or 10 large boxes, though individual needs vary. Is climate-controlled storage necessary? No, climate-controlled storage is not always necessary. It is often recommended for sensitive items such as electronics, artwork, antiques, photographs, documents, musical instruments, and wood furniture if your storage unit is located on the exterior of the facility where the door is exposed to the weather, extreme temperature fluctuations and humidity. However, if your storage unit is completely inside a dry, temperature-controlled building, it is not required and you will save the extra cost of this feature. Most 2-bedroom apartments fit comfortably into either a 10x10 or 10x20 storage unit. A 10x10 unit is typically ideal for standard apartment belongings and short-term storage needs, while a 10x20 unit provides additional flexibility for larger households, long-term storage, and easier organization. If you want help with choosing the right storage unit size for you, please contact us and we’ll be happy to assist you!
By Ray Wang • August 26, 2026
Whether you're moving, downsizing, renovating, or simply running out of space, renting a storage unit can be a convenient solution for storing the contents of a 1-bedroom apartment. Choosing the right storage unit size can help you avoid paying for unused space while ensuring your belongings remain organized and protected. In most cases, a 5x5 storage unit or 5x10 storage unit is ideal for a 1-bedroom apartment. The best choice depends on the amount of furniture you have, the size of your apartment, and how long you plan to use storage. Popular Storage Unit Sizes for a 1-Bedroom Apartment 5x5 Storage Unit A 5x5 storage unit provides approximately 25 square feet of storage space and is similar in size to a small walk-in closet. While it is usually not large enough to store the contents of an entire 1-bedroom apartment, it can be a practical option for storing a few extra belongings. A 5x5 storage unit may fit items such as: Seasonal clothing Holiday decorations Small furniture pieces Books and personal belongings Several boxes Sports equipment Small appliances A 5 x 5 storage unit is ideal for apartment renters who only need a little extra space, are storing items temporarily, or want to declutter their home without renting a larger unit. 5 x 10 Storage Unit A 5 x10 storage unit provides approximately 50 square feet of floor space and is one of the most popular choices for a 1-bedroom apartment. It is similar in size to a large walk-in closet and can hold many common household items. A 5x10 storage unit can typically accommodate: Mattress and bed frame Dresser Small sofa or loveseat Television and TV stand Coffee table Several medium-sized boxes Luggage and seasonal items This size is often a good fit for individuals living alone, renters with fewer belongings, or those needing short-term storage during a move. Factors to Consider When Choosing a Storage Unit The Size of Your Apartment Not all 1-bedroom apartments have the same amount of storage needs. A smaller apartment with minimal furniture may only require a 5 x 5 unit, while a larger apartment with more belongings may benefit from a 5 x 10 storage unit. A 5 x 5 storage unit can work well if you are only storing a few items rather than the entire contents of your apartment. What You're Storing Before choosing a storage unit, create a list of everything you plan to store. Large furniture, appliances, and bulky items can quickly increase your storage requirements. Disassembling furniture when possible can help increase available space and may allow you to fit more items into a smaller unit. How Long You'll Need Storage Short-term storage during a move may only require a smaller unit, especially if you are storing boxes or seasonal belongings. For long-term storage, a larger unit such as a 5x15 can provide better organization and easier access to your items. Your Lifestyle Your lifestyle can also impact your storage needs. Someone who prefers a minimalist lifestyle may only need a 5x5 or 5x10 unit, while collectors, hobbyists, or outdoor enthusiasts may require more storage space. Tips for Maximizing Storage Space Use vertical space by stacking boxes and storage bins. Place heavier items on the bottom and lighter items on top. Store larger furniture toward the back of the unit. Leave a walkway for easy access. Label boxes clearly and create an inventory list. Protect furniture with covers or moving blankets. Use plastic storage bins for better long-term protection. Frequently Asked Questions Can a 5x5 storage unit fit a 1-bedroom apartment? A 5x5 storage unit is usually too small for the contents of an entire 1-bedroom apartment. However, it can be a good option for storing a few boxes, seasonal items, or smaller belongings. What size storage unit do I need for a 1-bedroom apartment? Most 1-bedroom apartments require a 5x5, 5x10, or 5x15 storage unit. A 5x5 unit is suitable for smaller storage needs, a 5x10 unit works well for smaller apartments or fewer belongings, and a 5x15 unit is better for larger apartments, couples, or long-term storage. What fits in a 5x10 storage unit? A 5x10 storage unit can typically hold bedroom furniture, a small sofa, television, boxes, and other household items from a smaller 1-bedroom apartment. Is a 5x15 storage unit worth it? A 5x15 storage unit is worth considering if you have larger furniture, appliances, or need frequent access to your belongings. The extra space makes organizing and retrieving items easier. Choosing the right storage unit size depends on the amount of belongings you have and how you plan to use the space. A 5x5 unit is ideal for small storage needs, while 5x10 and 5x15 units are better suited for storing the contents of most 1-bedroom apartments. If you have any questions finding the right storage unit size for you, please get in touch and our team is happy to assist!
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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