TL;DR: Get Your Size Right
Don't pay for more space than you need, but avoid cramming everything into a unit that's too small. Spend time planning, measuring, and talking to our local experts to get the perfect fit for your budget and needs.
Selecting the right storage unit size is crucial for Dunedin residents looking to store belongings safely and efficiently. Whether you're a University of Otago student moving between flats, a family downsizing, or a business needing extra space, making an informed decision helps you avoid unnecessary costs while ensuring adequate space.
Local Dunedin Expertise
As Dunedin's locally-owned storage facility, we understand the unique needs of our community - from student storage during semester breaks to family storage during house moves in the competitive Dunedin property market.
1. Create a Detailed Inventory
Before visiting our Dunedin facility, create a comprehensive inventory of everything you plan to store. This prevents costly sizing mistakes and helps you visualize your space requirements.
- List all furniture pieces with approximate dimensions
- Count boxes and estimate their sizes
- Note any unusually shaped or large items
- Consider seasonal items you might add later
- Take photos of your current setup for reference
2. Understanding Storage Unit Sizes
Storage units range from small closet-sized spaces to large garage-equivalent areas. Understanding these sizes helps you match your inventory to the right unit.
Popular Dunedin Unit Sizes:
- 1.2 x 1.5 metres (Small) - Perfect for University of Otago students storing seasonal items, documents, or small electronics
- 1.5 x 3 metres (Medium) - Ideal for one-bedroom flat contents, perfect for Dunedin's compact living spaces
- 3 x 6 metres (Large) - Great for family homes, business inventory, or vehicle storage
At Stash-It Dunedin, our flexible approach means you only pay for what you need. With 19 different unit sizes ranging from $80 to $430 per month, we accommodate everything from student storage to commercial needs.
💰 Dunedin Value Advantage
- No minimum terms or long-term contracts
- Consistent, transparent pricing
- Month-to-month flexibility
- No hidden fees or rate increases
3. Planning for Future Needs
Dunedin residents often find their storage needs evolve. Students might accumulate more belongings over their university years, families might need space during renovations, or businesses might grow their inventory.
🔮 Future-Proofing Tips
- Consider upcoming life changes (graduation, marriage, business growth)
- Factor in seasonal items (ski gear, summer furniture)
- Remember that moving to a larger unit later involves extra effort
- Balance current costs against future convenience
4. Maximizing Space Through Smart Packing
Efficient packing can effectively increase your storage capacity by 30-50%, potentially allowing you to choose a smaller, more economical unit.
Space-Maximizing Strategies:
- Uniform boxes: Same-sized boxes stack efficiently and safely
- Vertical thinking: Use the full height of your unit - heavy items on bottom
- Disassembly: Take apart bed frames, table legs, and shelving units
- Fill empty spaces: Use drawers, appliances, and hollow furniture for storage
- Create aisles: Maintain access to frequently needed items
📐 Dunedin Packing Hack
Use vacuum storage bags for clothing and bedding - especially useful for students storing winter gear during Dunedin's summer break!
5. Access Requirements
Consider how often you'll need to access your stored items. Frequent access requires more internal space for navigation, while long-term storage can be packed more densely.
24/7 Access in Dunedin
Our facility offers round-the-clock access with automatic electric gates and personal PIN codes. Perfect for University of Otago students with irregular schedules or professionals who need after-hours access.
- High-access storage: Choose larger units, keep aisles clear
- Seasonal access: Pack strategically with seasonal items accessible
- Emergency access: Keep important documents and essentials near the front
- Business storage: Consider workflow and inventory rotation needs
6. Accurate Measurements
Precise measurements are crucial for choosing the right unit size. This step prevents costly mistakes and ensures efficient space utilization.What to Measure:
- Large furniture: Length, width, height of sofas, beds, wardrobes
- Appliances: Fridges, washing machines, entertainment units
- Boxes: Estimate total volume if using standard moving boxes
- Unusual items: Sporting equipment, musical instruments, artwork
📏 Measurement Tips
Remember to account for awkward shapes and the need to maneuver items. A 2m couch might need a 2.5m space when you factor in positioning and access.
7. Visit Our Dunedin Facility
Nothing beats seeing the units in person. Visit our facility to get a true sense of space and quality.
What You'll Experience:
- Size visualization: See how your inventory will actually fit
- Quality assessment: Inspect our climate-controlled units
- Security features: View our comprehensive security systems
- Local expertise: Get personalized recommendations from our Dunedin team
Common Dunedin Storage Scenarios
University of Otago Students
Typical need: 1.2x1.5m or 1.5x3m units for semester breaks, study abroad, or flat transitions.
Dunedin Families
Typical need: 1.5x3m to 3x6m units for house moves, renovations, or downsizing in Dunedin's property market.
Local Businesses
Typical need: Various sizes for inventory, documents, or seasonal equipment storage.
🏠 Dunedin Housing Market Insight
With Dunedin's competitive rental market, storage can be a strategic tool for managing housing transitions, storing excess furniture while viewing smaller properties, or keeping belongings during settlement periods.
With our local expertise and flexible approach, you'll find the perfect storage solution tailored to your specific Dunedin needs.