Sorry, students. Like most colleges and universities, San Diego State University does not offer free storage units for students over the summer break (or at any other point of the year). We (the staff here at Big Box Storage) have provided this response multiple times to inquisitive SDSU students who have contacted us regarding the matter over the years. For some reason (maybe a rumor?), many students felt as though it was possibly included as part of their tuition. In any event, SDSU storage units do not have to be a hassle or expensive!
So what’s an SDSU student to do with their household belongings over the summer months? Maybe they’re traveling abroad or just heading back to their hometown for the break and need some temporary, short-term, extra space. There are plenty of options to select from some more economical and convenient than others.
In an ideal world, a nearby San Diego family member or friend would have some suitable space available in their garage. Even better would be a scenario in which they owned a truck large enough for the transport of your belongings to their garage.
Of course, if we’re still in an ideal world, they would also be able to assist with the labor needed to load and then unload the truck. This perfect scenario aside, let’s take a look at some of the other storage unit options available to SDSU students.
Nearby SDSU Self-Storage Facilities
Within a radius of approximately three miles of the SDSU campus (5500 Campanile Dr, San Diego, CA 92182) and within the surrounding area zip codes 92115, 91942, 91941, 92120, and 92119 are the following self-storage facilities.
Note that this isn’t intended to be a recommendation of any of the particular facilities, merely a listing of some of the storage unit companies within the nearby SDSU area.
- A-1 Storage: 4680 Alvarado Canyon Rd, San Diego, CA 92120 (approx. 2 miles from SDSU)
- 8′ x 5′ unit for $109/month
- Mission Valley Self-Storage: 4437 Twain Ave, San Diego, CA 92120 (approx. 3 miles from SDSU)
- 8′ x 5′ unit for $105/month
- Rocket Self Storage: 4920 70th St, San Diego, CA 92115 (approx. 2 miles from SDSU)
- All-American Self Storage: 6225 El Cajon Blvd, San Diego, CA 92115 (approx. 2 miles from SDSU)
- 8′ x 5′ unit for $114/month
Aside from the above self-storage options, SDSU students would also be wise to consider the portable storage services of Big Box Storage of San Diego. The service is one in which the storage unit is dropped off at the student’s home, dorm, or apartment address in the SDSU area.
Big Box Storage offers SDSU students a convenient and affordable storage solution with its portable storage services.
Convenient Storage Unit Delivery and Pickup:
A storage unit is delivered directly to your location, eliminating the need for truck rentals. You pack at your own pace, and Big Box Storage picks up the unit and transports it to their secure facility.
Secure and Accessible Storage:
Your packed storage unit is securely stored at Big Box Storage’s local facility, with seven-day access at no extra charge.
Storage Unit Dimensions:
Each Big Box measures 8 feet deep by 5 feet wide by 7 feet tall, suitable for storing the contents of up to one and a half rooms.
Storage Unit Weight Limit:
Each unit can hold up to 2,000 lbs., enough for furniture, books, clothing, and personal items.
Affordable Storage Rates:
Monthly rental is $79, with a low-price guarantee.
Exclusive Discounts for SDSU Students:
SDSU students get a $50 discount on the first month’s rent. A four-month minimum commitment waives the $99 delivery fee, saving $149 in total.
Storage Tips for SDSU Students
Regardless of whether it’s self-storage or portable storage, once you’ve decided on the best storage solution, consider these helpful tips specifically for college students seeking to rent a storage unit:
Packing Supplies – As you pack your storage unit, you might need supplies like boxes or bubble wrap. Big Box Storage offers these items for purchase. They can deliver them along with your storage unit.
Plan Ahead – Decide in advance what will be needed to continue using in your dorm or apartment on the final day/night before the loading of the storage unit. Maybe a mattress, certainly some clothes, some kitchenware, along with anything else you’ll be keeping with you.
Donate – While sorting household items for storage, set aside those no longer needed. Consider donating these items to a non-profit like Goodwill or, in San Diego, Father Joe’s. This helps declutter and supports a good cause.
Make an Inventory List – Knowing you might need to access your storage unit at some point, it’s a good idea to list everything you’re storing. This way, you can easily remember what’s in there. Plus, when it’s time to unload, you’ll have a much easier time figuring out where everything should go. Staying organized will save you a lot of hassle down the road.
Labels on Boxes – In addition to making an inventory list, it’s a good idea to label each box you put into the storage unit. This makes the unloading process easier since you can quickly identify what’s inside each box. Having clearly labeled boxes will save you time and effort when you need to find specific items later on.
Cleaning Your Stuff – It’s always best to first thoroughly clean all of the items to be placed into the storage unit. Doing so will make for a smooth transition when the time comes to unload the unit into your new home or address.
Labor – As mentioned, the most economical way to load and pack a storage unit is to do it yourself or with help from friends and family. However, if they aren’t available or the items are too heavy, you might need to hire a moving company. Many SDSU students start their storage rentals around summer break, typically in May. It’s important to choose a moving company early because spring and summer are busy times for these services.
Truck Rental – If you’re doing the labor yourself or with help, you might need to rent a truck to transport items to and from the storage facility. This isn’t necessary with portable storage companies like Big Box Storage, which deliver the unit to you. If you need a truck, consider the costs and reserve it in advance to avoid last-minute issues.
Maximizing Space – Load larger, heavier items into the storage unit first. Beds, sofas, tables, and nightstands should be among the first items placed inside. This creates a stable base and allows you to stack smaller items on top, maximizing your storage space efficiently.
Avoiding Mildew – Avoid placing any wet or damp items into your storage unit. Be especially cautious on rainy days, as even slight moisture can cause problems. Using plastic bags for items like clothing can attract moisture, mildew, and mold. Instead, use cardboard boxes whenever possible to keep your belongings dry and safe.
What Not to Store – Be careful when loading your storage unit, as every storage company, including those near SDSU, has restrictions on what can and cannot be stored. Typically, prohibited items include perishables, toxic materials, paint, flammables, guns, and ammunition. Always check the specific guidelines of your storage provider to avoid any issues.
So SDSU students, do your homework (no pun intended) when deciding upon a storage provider. As mentioned, on behalf of the entire staff at Big Box Storage, we’d certainly welcome the opportunity to assist with any storage needs that may come along for you.
Big Box Storage provides SDSU students with a practical and affordable storage solution. With direct delivery, secure facilities, competitive pricing, and student discounts, it’s an excellent choice for managing belongings during breaks or extended absences from campus. Give us a call at (619) 353-5995 to order your Big Box today!
