The 5 Most Common Self Storage Mistakes—and How to Avoid Them

Admin
March 27th, 2025

Renting a storage unit might seem simple at first glance—find a space, fill it up, lock the door, and go. But many renters quickly find out there’s a little more to it than that. Whether you're storing household items, business inventory, or seasonal gear, avoiding a few common mistakes can save you time, money, and a lot of stress down the road.At Westwood Storage Center, we’ve worked with hundreds of tenants over the years, and we’ve seen the same storage blunders pop up time and again. If you’re planning to rent Rathdrum storage units, here are the top five self storage mistakes to watch for—and how to avoid them.

1. Choosing the Wrong Unit Size

One of the biggest mistakes people make is underestimating how much space they really need. Renting a unit that’s too small can lead to a cluttered, disorganized space—and possibly even damage to your items. On the other hand, overestimating and paying for extra space you don’t use can be an unnecessary expense.How to avoid it: Take a detailed inventory of what you plan to store, including large items like furniture, appliances, or equipment. Use a storage size guide or ask our team for help choosing the right fit. At Westwood Storage Center, we offer a variety of Rathdrum storage units to meet your needs without overpaying for space you don’t need.

2. Skipping Labels and an Inventory List

It may seem like a small detail, but failing to label your boxes or keep an inventory list can create major headaches later. You don’t want to dig through 10 identical boxes just to find your holiday decorations or business documents.How to avoid it: Label every box clearly with its contents and the room it came from. Keep a running list—either on paper or digitally—so you always know what’s in your unit. It only takes a few extra minutes during move-in, and it’ll save you tons of time later.

3. Poor Packing and Stacking

Cramming your items into a unit without any plan can lead to broken belongings and wasted space. Stacking boxes too high or placing heavy items on top of fragile ones is a recipe for disaster.How to avoid it: Use sturdy, same-size boxes for easier stacking. Place heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter ones on top. Disassemble furniture if possible, and cover large items with moving blankets or sheets for added protection. Leave a small path down the middle of the unit so you can access items without unpacking everything.

4. Forgetting to Use Protective Covers

Furniture, mattresses, electronics, and other sensitive items can collect dust or suffer from scratches if not properly protected. Even clean, well-maintained units can allow dust to settle over time.How to avoid it: Use plastic wrap, mattress bags, and furniture covers to keep your belongings clean and safe. Electronics should be stored in original packaging if possible or in padded boxes. Always raise items off the ground using pallets or boards to avoid direct contact with the concrete floor.

5. Not Considering Accessibility

Some renters load their units from front to back without thinking about what they might need to retrieve later. Then, when it’s time to grab that one thing, they have to pull everything out to find it.How to avoid it: Organize your unit with access in mind. Place frequently used items near the front, and less-used items in the back. Leave a clear walking path if space allows. Think of your storage unit as a functional space—not just a holding area.

Make Storage Simple with Westwood Storage Center

Renting self storage in Rathdrum, ID doesn’t have to be complicated. By avoiding these common mistakes, you can make the most of your storage experience and keep your items in great condition for as long as you need them stored.At Westwood Storage Center, we’re proud to offer clean, secure, and affordable storage units with convenient access and friendly local service. Whether you're moving, decluttering, or just need extra space, we're here to help make your storage experience smooth from start to finish.Contact us today to explore our available unit sizes and find the perfect fit for your needs—or give us a call to speak with a member of our team. When it comes to reliable self storage in Rathdrum, ID, Westwood Storage Center has you covered.