A helpful guide on the use of self-storage when moving in South Africa, including an overview of unit sizes, storage prices and unit layout tips.
Using storage when moving home in South Africa can make the process much easier and less stressful. Here’s a detailed guide to all you need to know about how storage can help and how to make the best use of storage.
Uses of storage when moving
There are many reasons to use storage. Here are some of the most common uses for storage when moving home:
- storing full household contents while living between homes
- protecting fragile items such as artwork, mirrors and TVs
- storing furniture to be later sold or donated
- storing items for sorting later
- to simplify the moving process.
Storage unit sizes
At XtraSpace, we have storage units ranging in size from 3 m2 up to 33 m2. How much space you’ll need depends on the belongings you want to store.
Here’s an idea of what you can fit into our storage units.
Small unit (3 m2): a computer, a desk and six storage boxes.
Medium unit (9 m2): a desk, a chair and 15+ packing boxes
Large unit (12 m2): the contents of a one-bedroom apartment.
Extra-large unit (16 m2): the contents of a one- to two-bedroom apartment.
Mega unit (33 m2): the contents of a three- to four-bedroom family home.
Storage prices in South Africa
Not all companies offer the same facilities and services at their storage units. Prices reflect this. Expect to pay more for features such as climate control, 24/7 security and a business centre.
While storage unit prices vary, size and location are the main factors determining the price. Prices tend to be higher where there’s limited storage available. Be wary of very cheap storage.
We sourced quotes from multiple storage providers and found that the average cost of a self-storage unit in South Africa is R460 per month for a small unit and R3,250 per month for a larger one. Look here for further information on storage prices in South Africa.
8 tips for organising a storage unit during a move
There are a number of ways to pack a storage unit. These tips will help you optimise the space and give you access to your belongings while they’re in storage.
1. Pack large items first. Place bulky items like sofas and furniture pieces at the back of the unit so they don’t block access or visibility. Cover furniture in high-density plastic or a thick blanket and use as a base to stack boxes and other items.
2. Leave an aisle. When positioning items, leave a narrow gap – large enough to walk through – down the middle. This will give you access to all the items in the unit.
3. Disassemble furniture. If furniture pieces can be taken apart, do this before packing them in the storage unit. Keep all nuts, screws and bolts in a Ziploc bag and tape to the item of furniture.
4. Stack sturdy items. Any items that are strong and can be safely stacked will allow you to make use of the entire volume of the storage unit.
5. Label boxes. Write a detailed list of what’s inside every box. Print out the lists and stick to the boxes.
6. Place frequently used items at the front. Any belongings you may want to access while they’re being stored should be placed near the front.
7. Fill spaces and gaps. Spaces under tables, inside cupboards or drawers – even inside a fridge or freezer – can be used for storing smaller items or boxes.
8. List all inventory and make a map. Write a list of every item in storage and where it’s located. Draw a map to make it easier to find items.
Storage when moving: finding a branch near you
XtraSpace operates throughout Gauteng, in Durban and Pietermaritzburg, and in Cape Town.
You can browse a list of all our branches in South Africa here.
Storage at XtraSpace when moving in South Africa
At XtraSpace, we offer clean, secure self-storage units that are ideal for storing your belongings when you’re moving in South Africa. Contact us for more information or browse to find a branch near you.