How Often Should You Visit Your Storage Unit?

—
May 27th, 2025

If you rent a storage unit, you might wonder how often you should actually stop by. Should you check in once a month? Or is it okay to go months without visiting?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. How often you should visit your unit depends on what you’re storing, how often you need those items, and how long you plan to keep them in storage. Some people only drop by a couple times a year. Others visit regularly, especially if they’re using their unit for business or rotating seasonal items.

In this blog, we’ll break down some general guidelines for how often you might want to visit your storage unit.

How Often to Visit Based on What You’re Storing

So how often should you visit? It depends on how you’re using your storage unit. Here are some tips:

Long-Term Storage

If you’re storing items you don’t use often—like extra furniture, keepsakes, or tools—a visit every 3 to 6 months is usually enough. Marking a regular check-in date on your calendar can help you stay on top of checking your unit for any signs of moisture, pests, or other problems.

Seasonal Storage

For things like holiday decorations, winter clothes, or summer sports gear, two to four visits a year should do the trick. Just plan to go around the time you want to swap out your seasonal items.

Business Storage

If you're storing business inventory or supplies, your visit schedule will obviously depend on how often you need these items. Weekly visits might make sense if you’re regularly restocking. For others, once or twice a month could be plenty.

Storing Valuables or Important Documents

If you’re keeping items like antiques, electronics, or paperwork in your unit, you might want to check on them monthly. Even if they’re packed well, it’s a good idea to look in from time to time and make sure everything is in good shape.

You don’t always need to spend a lot of time during each visit. A quick check every now and then can save you from bigger problems later. Just pop in, take a look around, and make sure things are how you left them.

The Benefits of Regular Visits

Visiting your storage unit regularly may not seem like a big deal, but it can make a big difference in keeping your belongings in good shape and staying organized. Here are a few reasons to make it a habit:

Catch Problems Early

Leaks, pests, or humidity can cause damage if left alone for too long. A quick visit helps you spot these problems before they get worse.

Stay Organized

The more time passes, the easier it is to forget what you packed. Dropping by now and then helps you stay familiar with your layout and what’s inside—especially if movers packed it for you and you weren’t there for every box.

Rediscover Stored Items

You might find things you forgot you had. That extra blanket or kitchen appliance you were about to replace could be sitting in storage.

Manage Business Inventory

If you’re using your unit for business, regular visits help with rotating stock, restocking shelves, and keeping track of what’s on hand.

Peace of Mind

It’s simply good to know your items are safe and right where they should be. Even a quick check can help you feel more in control of your space.

Signs You’re Not Visiting Enough

If it’s been a while since your last visit, you might notice a few warning signs. Here are some signs that it may be time to check in more often:

Damage or Odors

If you notice rust, mildew, or musty smells when you open the door, it could mean moisture or pests have been around too long without being addressed.

Disorganization and Clutter

If you can’t walk into your unit without stepping over boxes or digging through piles, things have probably gotten out of hand. A quick visit can help get things back in order.

Forgotten Items

Not sure whether you still have that old coffee table or winter jacket? If you can’t remember what’s in your unit, that’s a sign it’s time to check in. This often happens after moving, when items get packed quickly and you forget what went where.

Wasted Space

If your unit is packed with items you no longer need but you haven’t sorted through them in months, you might be paying for space you don’t need anymore.

No Idea What’s Going On

When you go too long without visiting, small problems can grow without you knowing. A quick check every now and then helps you stay in the loop.

Tips to Make Your Visits Worthwhile

If you're going to take the time to visit your storage unit, you should make the trip worth it. Here are a few ways to get the most out of your visits:

Keep an Inventory List

Write down what you’ve stored and where you’ve put it. Whether it’s a notebook, a phone app, or a spreadsheet, having a list makes it easier to find what you need without digging through every box.

Label Everything Clearly

Use bold, easy-to-read labels on your boxes and bins. You’ll save time when you visit the unit if you don’t have to open every container just to figure out what’s inside.

Use Shelving or Sturdy Bins

Shelves help keep things off the ground and make it easier to grab what you need. Clear plastic bins are great for seeing what’s inside without opening them.