Step 3: Operation Storage Solution

(Choosing Your Fortress of Forgotten Treasures)

Operation: Dynamite Downsizing

Key Takeaway:

Goal:

Materials Needed:

• Measuring Tape: To guesstimate the volume of your "Store" pile.
• Internet Access: For researching local storage facilities. If you’ve already decided on Best West Storage in Springfield, MO you can reserve your unit online.
• A United Front (and Budget!)

Action Plan:

• Estimate Your Volume (The "Tetris Test"): Mentally (or physically, if you're ambitious) try to stack your "Store" items. Many storage facilities like Best West Storage in Springfield, Missouri, have size estimators on their websites. Remember, most self-storage units are 8 ft tall. Here are some tips to get you thinking:
• A 5x10 unit (50 square feet) - Are we talking a walk-in closet's worth? Think small stuff like a few boxes or holiday decorations. Or for your small furniture or things the size of a bike.
• A 10x10 unit (100 square feet)- A small bedroom-sized unit. Think of the furniture and belongings in a one-bedroom apartment. Include boxes of your personal items, such as furniture and appliances.
• A 10x15 unit (150 square feet) - Are you realizing that there is more stuff to store as you are decluttering? This size can handle larger furniture, appliances, and items from a two-bedroom apartment.
• A 10x20 unit (200 square feet)- Have you secretly been hoarding enough to furnish a small nation? This size is often used for the contents of a three-bedroom home or even an extra vehicle. This is the size you will need if you want to empty your garage to use it as a clean landing place to conquer the clutter room by room or to store one vehicle when you are moving.
• Determine the need for Climate Control:
• Climate-controlled units are your best friend for items like electronics, important documents, artwork, or delicate fabrics. This type of storage unit protects against extreme temperature fluctuations and humidity, preventing warping, mildew, and general sadness.
• Non-climate-controlled units are fine for items less susceptible to environmental drama. Many people store their whole home in the drive-up non-climate-controlled units. Best West Storage in Springfield, Missouri, offers drive-up storage units and also has storage places for your car, boat, RV, or other vehicle you aren’t using.
• Location, Location, Location (and Access!): How often will you need to access the unit? Is 24/7 access important, or are standard business hours okay? Choose a facility that's conveniently located and has access hours that suit your needs. Best West Storage has access 7 days a week, with normal gate hours from 6 am to 10 pm and 24-hour access for an extra fee. Best West is conveniently located close to I-44 and Chestnut Expressway (exit 72).
• Security Check: You want your treasures to be safe and sound. Look for features like those at Best West, such as gated access, security cameras, and good lighting.
• Read the Reviews, Seal the Deal: See what other downsizers and movers are saying. Look at the ratings. Once you've found "The One," book it! Best West Storage may be “The One” since it was rated the Best of 2023 and 2024 by Loc8nearme and one of the Three Best Rated Storage Units in Springfield, MO in 2024 by Business Hall of Fame. The move-in process at Best West includes a tamper-resistant lock, so you don’t have to purchase one. You may need to purchase one at other storage facilities.
• Check your renter’s or homeowner’s insurance to see if your personal property insurance covers possessions in the storage unit.

Pro-Tip: