Off to College (Or Back Home): Got Storage?

If you’re headed off to college — or you’re saying goodbye to a child who’s headed to university — you might just find yourself in need of self-storage. College is a big transition for everyone in the family, from parents eager to reclaim some space back at the homestead to students needing more storage for belongings than dorms or off-campus apartments can offer.

There are currently 17.5 million college students in the U.S. but there are no stats on just how much stuff they’ve left behind at Mom and Dad’s. Our best guess? Way too much! Tame the chaos that comes with these years with a smart self-storage solution tailored to your family’s individual needs.

Curious about self-storage, but not quite sure how it might help your family navigate these transitional university years? Here are some common collegiate scenarios we’ve seen time and time again that call for savvy self-storage solutions.

 

Simplifying a Recent Grad’s Housing Situation

Many college grads find themselves stuck with more belongings than they know what to do with after graduation. Dragging boxes and suitcases to and from temporary housing situations (i.e., staying with Mom and/or Dad for a while, or crashing on a friend’s couch) is a stressor that new alums (and parents!) can do without.

It’s common for newly launched young adults to find themselves with a diploma but no wall to hang it on — sometimes for a few years after graduation. Self-storage serves as a no-fuss bridge between an uncertain now and a more secure future. It’s a lot easier to keep belongings securely stashed in one central location when figuring out adult life and the many daunting transitions that come along with it.

Summer Vacation and Seasonal Breaks

Many students return home for the summer, loaded up with items like books, seasonal clothes, and sports equipment. Parents are usually happy to welcome their kids home, but their carload of belongings? Well, that’s another story! Instead of hauling a dorm room’s contents back into Mom and Dad’s, why not invest in a climate-controlled self-storage unit near campus? That way, parents get to keep that extra space they’ve grown so fond of during the school year — and students can enjoy a stress-free summer or break with just the clothes and items they need until September rolls around again.

Empty Nesters

Let’s face it: An empty nest isn’t really an empty nest until the nest is emptied of grown-kid detritus. Trust us, your kid will understand your need to reclaim precious square footage in the family home — as long as there’s still somewhere to sleep when they come home to visit. What could you do with another room? Plenty! Is it time to create that home office you’ve been dreaming about, or are there siblings overdue for a chance at their own rooms? All’s fair in the college years, so consider a self-storage unit that can hold your adult child’s precious possessions for them until they’re ready and able to find a job — and some happily permanent housing.

Getting Schooled in Self-Storage: 7 Things College Students Should Look For

We know there’s a lot to think about when it comes to choosing a self-storage facility, and the biggest is not always the best! Here are 7 amenities students would be wise to look for before signing on the dotted line.

#1. Individual Solutions

Be sure you or your college student isn’t paying for more storage space than needed. When it comes to the university years, storage is definitely not a one-size-fits-all situation. At our Fountain Lakes Storage location, for instance, we offer clients a choice of six different storage sizes, along with shelving so you can customize your unit and other amenities.

#2. Climate Control

A self-storage facility with precise climate control is a definite must-have for any university student. Why? Student belongings are especially prone to mildew and mold — yuck. Books, papers, electronic equipment like laptops and modems, bedding, and articles of clothing need to be kept out of a humid environment to stay in good condition. A climate-controlled unit will also ensure protection from vermin-like rodents or insects.

#3. Easy Load-In and Load-Out

All ground-floor access — meaning zero cramped elevators or dangerous stairs — is worth seeking out. At Otto Self Storage facilities in Missouri, we also offer a wide loading entrance and roomy hallways to our clients, along with complimentary easy-maneuvering storage carts. Handicap-accessible units are also available.

#4. Tight Security

Security and surveillance are a must for any student’s self-storage facility. At Otto Self Storage, we’re proud of our state-of-the-art video surveillance system, as well as our secure keypad entry access. Our on-site managers check all locks twice daily, so our clients can rest easy that all is well with their valuables. Bright, plentiful lighting also keeps our facility a safe, pleasant place to visit.

#5. Convenient Hours

You don’t want a storage unit that you (or your college student) can’t get into! Be smart and opt for a self-storage facility that offers hours that work for you and your family.

24-hour access sounds nice, but it often costs a pretty penny — something usually in short supply for parents and college kids. A facility like Fountain Lakes Storage that offers convenient hours and on-site help can tackle the same storage at a much lower monthly price tag.

#6. Tech-Savvy Convenience

Students tend to be tech-savvy, so it makes sense to work with a storage facility that offers online convenience. At Otto Self Storage, customers can rent and make payments on a storage unit with our simple, contactless online system.

#7. Flexibility

So much is uncertain during the college years and post-graduation. Students don’t want to get locked into long-term local contracts if a new opportunity takes them elsewhere. Choose a facility like the ones in the Otto Self Storage family, where we don’t believe in hidden fees or long-term ball-and-chain contracts. Rent with us month-to-month, and you’ll never have to worry about paying for storage space you no longer need.

Students should also beware of the fine print that often comes along with enticing self-storage “specials” like first-month-free offers. There are usually conditions attached, such as minimum tenancy requirements.

Whatever your needs, we’re here at Otto Self Storage to help.

Look No Further Than Otto Self Storage for College Storage Unit Rentals in Missouri!

We know that choosing a storage unit is more than just finding a box with four walls and a lock to store your things. You want to make sure that your prized possessions are in a safe, secure, clean location,

watched over by people who care. Whether you’re moving or renovating, empty nesting or running a small business or a hobby, downsizing or storing college dorm items, we’re honored to be part of your story.

Want to know more? Check out our storage tips and FAQs. We’re committed to five-star customer service that the big names in self storage just can’t beat. For storage solutions with an outstanding experience in St. Charles visit Fountain Lakes Storage. If you’re in the Farmington area, swing by DHighway storage. Do you live near Ste. Genevieve? Then “O” Road Storage is perfect for you! And for those in the St. Louis area, give us a call, at Baumgartner Road Storage. Browse locations online, or drive by one of our storage facilities to get set up with a brand new storage unit. We can’t wait to welcome you into the Otto Self Storage family.