How to Empty Your Storage Unit (& Save $1,000 a Year)

Did you know that nearly 40% of Americans rent storage units for more than three years, even though they rarely access them? And with the average monthly storage cost hovering around $90/month, that adds up to over $1,000 a year just to store things you may not even want anymore.

Unless you're in a short-term transition (like a move or renovation), chances are your storage unit is more of a money drain than a useful resource. If you've been meaning to clear it out “someday,” this is your step-by-step plan to finally do it, without getting overwhelmed.

Step 1: DISCOVER (Before You Even Go)

Before you even set foot in your storage unit, get intentional. You’ve managed without these items for a while now, so ask yourself:

•  What’s really worth bringing home?
•  Which items are so meaningful, useful, or valuable that you want them back in your space?
•  Do you already have room for them in your home, or can you realistically make room?
•  Does it make more sense to discard now and rebuy items later, if you discover you DO need them?

Pro Tip: Make a short list of specific things you know are in the unit and truly want. Everything else? It’s time to get real.

Step 2: DETAILS (Plan Your Visit)

Once you’re mentally prepared, figure all this out in advance.

•  Timing: What are the days and hours your unit is available?
•  Access: Don’t forget the key or combo to the lock!
•  Location: Are there elevators, stairs, or ramps?
•  Bathroom: Is there one available for use? 
•  Parking: How close can you get to your unit?
•  Donations: Find a nearby, open charity that is accepting items.
•  Disposal: Storage places do NOT have dumpsters. Know how/where you’ll discard your trash.
•  Helpers: It’s safer and way more motivating to have a team to assist you to open boxes, sort out stuff, load the car, haul away trash, drop off donations, get snacks, etc. It’s a BIG job to do alone.
•  Supplies: Think about ALL the things you’ll need to bring to get it done on the day – hit the “contact” button above and ask me for the list of ALL the things I bring to a storage clear-out job!

Step 3: DONATE, DISCARD, or DECIDE

As you begin sorting, use these 3 simple categories:

•  DONATE - Gently used furniture, kitchenware, books, or clothing in good condition? Don’t overthink it—let someone else enjoy it.
•  DISCARD - Broken, moldy, damaged, expired, or mystery items with no emotional or functional value? Time to say goodbye. Consider hiring a junk removal service if there’s a lot to toss.
•  DECIDE - These are the items you're truly unsure about. Set them aside as you go and revisit them at the end. If it’s a family heirloom or something with real personal significance, make a plan to bring it home and honor it—don’t just store it indefinitely.

Pro Tip - Downsizing Options: If you can't clear the entire unit, inquire about moving what is left to a smaller unit to save on costs.

Step 4: DIVIDENDS (Your Reward!)

Here’s what you’ll gain from clearing out your unit:

•  Money saved: That’s $90/month back in your budget—or more!
•  More intentional belongings: Everything you’ve kept now has a purpose or a reason.
•  Mental clarity: Decluttering can lead to reduced stress and a sense of accomplishment
•  A fresh start: You’ve taken action and reclaimed control. Well done!

If you’ve had a storage space for more than a year, this is your nudge to finally open that door, look around, and make some decisions. You don’t have to do it all in one day, but you do have to start.