Every year, especially in June, Big Box Storage delivers dozens of storage units to University of California San Diego (UCSD) students. Most students use these units to store their belongings from their dorms or apartments during the four-month summer break.

Some students may be leaving college early and need storage for an unknown period while they plan their future after college. Yet others might be spending a semester abroad and require storage for the duration of time spent elsewhere. These students need to rent storage units near UCSD to store their personal belongings and items for a certain period.

Unlike the common semester system, UCSD operates on a quarter system with fall, winter, spring, and summer quarters. The spring quarter ends between June 10th and 17th, allowing students to put in extra time during the summer if desired.

Commencement dates seem to vary slightly depending on the actual college at UCSD that the student attends – Revelle, Muir, Marshall, Warren, Roosevelt (or ERC), or Sixth. The fall quarter then generally commences at some point around September 20th through 28th. It’s during these months when students need storage the most.

Students will be pleased to hear that there are ample options for the rental of storage units near UCSD. Within a five-mile radius of the UCSD campus, there are at least six self-storage facilities for students to select. Following is a listing of some of these companies and their local addresses:

• All Right Storage – 11300 Sorrento Valley Rd, San Diego, CA 92121
• Extra Space Storage –  6360 Miramar Rd, San Diego, CA 92121
• Golden Triangle Self Storage – 10345 Sorrento Valley Rd, San Diego, CA 92121
• Public Storage – two locations – 11303 Sorrento Valley Rd, San Diego, CA 92121 and 6200 Miramar Rd, San Diego, CA 92121)
• Storage West – 5206 Eastgate Mall, San Diego, CA 92121

Beyond self-storage centers, UCSD students also have a more convenient option – portable storage. This service delivers storage units directly to students’ dorms or apartments near UCSD or anywhere across San Diego.

Portable Storage: A Convenient Option

Beyond self-storage centers, UCSD students have a more convenient option – portable storage. This service delivers storage units directly to students’ dorms or apartments near UCSD or anywhere across San Diego.

The storage unit is placed wherever a car can park. The student packs the unit, and the storage company picks it up and stores it nearby. When the student no longer needs the rental space at the end of summer, the company delivers the unit back to them, on or off campus.

Big Box Storage, San Diego’s largest portable storage company, has been serving UCSD students for over 17 years. Back then, Sixth College and the Rady School of Management were just opening on the UCSD campus.

Ease of Use with Big Box Storage

The company’s delivery and pickup service means students don’t need to visit the storage facilities. However, if they want to, Big Box Storage is about four miles from UCSD at 7077 Consolidated Way, San Diego, CA 92121. The facility is open seven days a week, so students can retrieve or add items to their unit anytime.

Moving Belongings to Storage

Choosing a storage provider is just the first step. Students still need to move their belongings into the storage unit. If they choose a conventional self-storage company, they will typically need to rent a truck to transport their items. This means loading the truck at their dorm or apartment and unloading it at the storage facility near UCSD.

Alternatively, choosing a portable storage company like Big Box Storage allows them to load the unit at their address and avoid truck rentals. At the end of the rental period, the company redelivers the unit to their new address.

Selecting the Right Storage Unit Size

Students need to decide on the size of the storage unit. Most UCSD students, and San Diego college students in general, need 25 to 50 square feet. This might be a 5′ x 5′ unit, a 5′ x 8′ unit, or a 5′ x 10′ unit. They should also check the height of the unit.

While most units are over 7 feet tall, some companies offer units as short as 3 or 4 feet. Some companies list the height, while others only list the floor space, which affects the total cubic footage. Big Box Storage only offers a single-size unit, which is 8′ x 5′ x 7′ (L x W x H, exterior dimensions).

Upwards of 95% of the time, college students renting from the company only need one “Big Box.” The size typically holds up to a room and a half of belongings. For example, a unit of this size can hold a king-size bed and mattress, a couple of nightstands, a kitchen table, four kitchen chairs, and 20 to 30 standard cardboard boxes of items. This size is usually sufficient for most college students.

You can utilize the Big Box storage space estimator to see how many storage units you may need.

Storage Rental Costs and Considerations

The rental costs for storage units near UCSD vary. When renting, students should consider all costs: truck rental fees, travel time, loading time, “move-in” charges ($15-$20), and the monthly rental rate. Big Box Storage offers affordable rates, free delivery and pickup for rentals of at least four months.

Self-storage facilities near UCSD often charge anywhere from $60 to $90 as a monthly rental rate for a 40 sq. ft. unit. Note that these rates do not include other potential costs and fees.

Regarding costs, the monthly rental rate for renting a “Big Box” is $74 (as of the date of this publishing). Beyond the monthly rate, Big Box Storage offers free delivery of the empty unit and free pickup of the full unit if the student rents for at least four months.

For those unwilling to commit to the four-month term, the delivery/pickup fee is $99. However, the minimum term seems to be an ideal length for students in need of summer storage. For those interested in scheduling online, a further $25 discount is applied to the first month’s rental rate.

Once the student has selected which storage unit near UCSD that they will be renting, they should also take into account several other considerations.

Here’s a partial list:

– Scheduling in advance. Avoid appearing at a self-storage facility without any advance reservation. One primary reason is that they might not have the space available or the right size unit needed.

While this situation wouldn’t occur with a portable storage company since they deliver the unit to the student, the delivery appointment should still be scheduled in advance (ideally at least five days) to ensure the desired delivery time is available.

– Padlock. Regardless of whether the student is opting for a self-storage company or a portable storage company, their rented unit will still need a padlock to ensure the further security of their stored belongings.

If the student doesn’t have a padlock or doesn’t want to purchase one, they can buy directly from the storage company. Costs vary but generally run between $7 and $15. The student should also inquire about the storage company’s security measures at their facility. Basic measures such as video surveillance and alarms should be viewed as mandatory.

– Sharing a storage unit. Obviously, the benefit of sharing a storage unit is getting to share the rent. These situations are ideal for roommates who are going to be roommates even after the summer break (or whatever their storage rental period may be).

– Advance payment. Most students need storage for just four months during summer break. Paying for the entire rental upfront can help avoid late fees and the hassle of remembering monthly payments.

– Storing with a friend. Besides self-storage and portable storage, some students near UCSD might store their belongings with a friend. Many UCSD students are from the San Diego area, including La Jolla, and may have extra space at home for a friend’s or fellow student’s belongings.

Though not very common, storing items with a friend can be ideal due to the savings. Even if rent is free, the student still needs to figure out how to transport their items. If they don’t have a truck or large car, renting a truck from a company like U-Haul is a likely solution. They should also consider additional costs like insurance and gas.

For UCSD students interested in a portable storage solution, Big Box Storage is conveniently located just a few miles from the campus. The company offers free initial delivery and pickup of the storage unit for students looking to store for at least four months. Contact Big Box Storage at (619) 353-5995 for a hassle-free storage experience tailored to meet the needs of UCSD students.

Planning and organizing your household goods for storage in San Diego can be more complex than it seems. From determining the right unit size to deciding what goes into each box, careful preparation is key to making the process efficient. Whether you’re using a portable or traditional storage facility, here’s a comprehensive guide to packing and loading your storage unit effectively.

How Much Storage Space Do You Need?

Before you start packing, assess the space you’ll need. You don’t have to do complex math as many storage companies, including Big Box Storage, offer online storage calculators to help you estimate. Use these tools to avoid choosing a unit that’s too small or unnecessarily large.

Storage Unit Size Guidelines

Here’s a quick overview of common storage unit sizes and what they can hold:

• 5×5 Units (25 sq. ft.): Perfect for small items like boxes, books, files, or collectibles. Ideal for storing items in a small closet.
• 5×8 Units (40 sq. ft.): Great for dorm-room essentials or small appliances, bikes, and boxes.
• 5×15 Units (75 sq. ft.): Suitable for one-bedroom apartment contents like a couch, chairs, and seasonal equipment.
• 10×10 Units (100 sq. ft.): Can accommodate the contents of a two-bedroom apartment, including furniture, appliances, and boxes.
• 10×15 Units (150 sq. ft.): Holds items from a three-bedroom home, including larger furniture and electronics.
• 10×20 Units (200 sq. ft.): Ideal for car storage or the contents of a four-bedroom house.
• 10×30 Units (300 sq. ft.): Perfect for large vehicles, boats, or the contents of a large home.

Some facilities also offer vehicle storage options, including indoor, outdoor, and covered parking for cars, RVs, and boats. Choose a storage solution based on your specific needs, such as temperature-controlled units for delicate items or outdoor parking for larger vehicles.

Make a Plan Before Packing

Proper planning can save you time and effort when loading your storage unit.

1. Choose a Reliable Storage Company: Research facilities, read reviews, and ask for recommendations. Avoid choosing a provider based solely on low prices, as the safety and care of your belongings are crucial.
2. Take Inventory: Create a list of everything you plan to store. This helps prevent forgetting items and makes it easier to estimate the unit size you’ll need.
3. Strategic Packing: Place items you’ll need access to most frequently near the front of the unit. Use the vertical space by stacking boxes, keeping heavier ones at the bottom for stability.
4. Leave a Pathway: Create a walkway from the front to the back of the unit so that everything is accessible.

Why Choose Big Box Storage?

Big Box Storage is San Diego’s top portable storage solution, offering unparalleled convenience and flexibility. They deliver the storage unit directly to your door, allow you to pack at your own pace, and securely store it at their facility. For assistance with loading, packing, or choosing the right unit, contact Big Box Storage today!

When it comes to storing household items in San Diego, there are plenty of convenient options to choose from. Whether you need a place for furniture, clothing, or seasonal goods, finding the right storage solution can make all the difference. Here’s an overview of the most popular storage options in San Diego to help you make the right choice.

1. Conventional Self-Storage

Conventional self-storage is a popular option for those who prefer a hands-on approach. It allows you to pack and organize your belongings on your own, but it requires some planning:

• Packing Tips: Label boxes clearly, fill them to avoid collapse, and use bubble wrap for fragile items. Avoid plastic bags to prevent mold, and always dry appliances thoroughly before storing them.
• Organizing the Unit: Use wooden pallets to keep items off the floor, store furniture at the back, and leave a pathway for easy access. Consider placing essential items at the front for quick retrieval.
• Protective Measures: Use mothballs, rat bait, and moisture absorbers to safeguard against pests and dampness. Cover furniture with tarps to keep dust at bay.

Self-storage is a reliable option if you’re comfortable managing the process and have time to organize properly.

2. A Friend’s Garage

Storing items in a friend’s garage can save money, but it comes with limitations:

• Environmental Concerns: Garages lack climate control, exposing items to temperature fluctuations, humidity, and dust.
• Preparations: Wash and dry cars, tools, and equipment thoroughly before storing. Use pallets to keep boxes off the ground, and cover furniture with tarps to protect against dust and bugs.
• Trust Factor: Ensure your friend can maintain the security of your belongings over the long term.

While it’s an economical option, a garage may not provide the same level of protection as other storage facilities.

3. Full-Service Movers

For those who want a hassle-free experience, full-service movers handle everything from packing to storing:

• What They Do: Movers pack your items using high-quality materials, transport them, and organize them in a storage unit.
• Benefits: Ideal for those physically unable to pack or relocate for work. They provide expert packing and handling.
• Drawbacks: Full-service movers are significantly more expensive than other storage options.

If cost isn’t a concern, this option is perfect for convenience and peace of mind.

4. Portable Storage Companies

Portable storage offers the best balance of affordability and convenience. Companies like Big Box Storage bring a mobile storage unit directly to your location:

• How It Works: The portable unit is delivered to your driveway or yard, allowing you to pack at your own pace. Once packed, the company picks up the unit and stores it at their facility.
• Indoor vs. Outdoor Units: Indoor, climate-controlled units are perfect for delicate items like furniture and boxes, while outdoor units are ideal for vehicles and tools.
• Flexibility: Portable storage companies often offer month-to-month leases, making them ideal for short- or long-term needs.

This option is especially popular among homeowners in transition, military personnel, and anyone seeking a secure and flexible storage solution.

Why Choose Big Box Storage?

Big Box Storage combines the convenience of portable storage with the protection of indoor, climate-controlled units. Whether you’re between homes, deployed overseas, or simply need extra space, Big Box Storage offers reliable and affordable solutions tailored to your needs.

Call Big Box Storage in San Diego today for a quote and take the first step toward stress-free storage!

Have you ever faced one of these storage dilemmas, or know someone who has?

Scenario 1: A couple in San Diego decides to downsize after their kids move out. With no one interested in their extra furniture, they hold a garage sale and sell everything online. Three years later, when the kids finish college and move into their own homes, they realize they want the furniture their parents sold. Unfortunately, it’s too late! When they calculate the cost of replacing those cherished items, they discover it would have been far more economical to store the furniture instead. They can’t replace the sentimental value of heirlooms like hope chests, oak dining tables, and fine leather recliners.

Scenario 2: Someone accepts a job offer overseas and sells all their furniture in a hurry. After a year abroad, they decide they don’t like it and want to return to San Diego. However, when they come back, they’re shocked at the cost of repurchasing everything. If only they had opted to store their belongings instead! This way, if they loved living abroad, they could have chosen to stay longer and still had their furniture waiting for them when they returned.

Scenario 3: In San Diego, a young couple sells all their baby items for a fraction of their value to make space. Just when they think they’re done with baby furniture, they find out they’re expecting baby number two and must repurchase everything at a significant cost—especially when they’re trying to save for their growing family.

Do any of these scenarios resonate with you? The common thread is that none of these individuals considered the cost of storage before deciding to sell their belongings. That’s why we’ve compiled this comprehensive guide to San Diego storage unit costs. Our goal is to help you make informed decisions about whether storing or selling is the best option for you. You might be surprised by what you discover!

Portable Storage Made Easy: The 1-2-3 Process

Finding mobile storage solutions near you has never been easier. If you’re unfamiliar with how portable storage works, here’s a quick breakdown of the simple 1-2-3 process:

1. Delivery: A portable storage unit is delivered to your home and placed in a convenient location, similar to where a car would be parked.
2. Loading: Once you’ve loaded the unit with your belongings, the storage company will pick it up and transport it to a secure facility. When you choose a reputable San Diego storage provider, you can access your items whenever you want—just call ahead!
3. Return: When you need your items back, the storage service will deliver your portable unit straight to your address.

This straightforward process eliminates the hassle of loading items into a truck, driving to a storage facility, unloading, and then repeating the process when you need something back. Plus, there are additional costs and time commitments associated with truck rentals to consider.

The Hidden Costs of Truck Rentals

Separating your truck rental from your storage unit can lead to unexpected challenges and costs. Here are some issues you might encounter:

• Extra Charges: You might overestimate the size of the truck you need and end up paying more for space you don’t use, or worse, require two trips.
• Driving Challenges: Not everyone is comfortable driving large rental trucks. It can be intimidating, especially if it’s your first time.
• Heavy Lifting: Loading heavy items, like a piano, onto a truck is no small feat. It often requires special equipment, such as a dolly, which you may need to rent in addition to the truck.
• Licensing Issues: If you don’t have a driver’s license, renting a truck becomes complicated. Hiring a driver or enlisting a friend adds further costs and logistical challenges.
• Surprising Expenses: Rental truck prices in San Diego can be steep. When you add in the potential costs of insurance, labor, and equipment rentals, the total can be shocking.

For these reasons, many people in need of storage opt for portable storage units instead.

Understanding Rental Rates

If you’ve determined that storage is the best option for you, it’s time to explore portable storage rates. Here’s what to consider:

• Location: Urban storage facilities in San Diego tend to be more expensive than those in suburban areas like Oceanside, Escondido, or Chula Vista. The convenience of having a storage unit nearby comes with a price.
• Rental Duration: If you know how long you need storage, look for facilities offering month-to-month rentals. If your needs are long-term, many facilities provide significant discounts for rentals of four months or longer. Be sure to check for promotions, like the first month free, which often apply to long-term rentals. Portable storage providers might also include free pickup and delivery for longer commitments.
• Unit Size: The size of the storage unit directly impacts the rental price. For example, a 5’x5′ unit might cost $45 at one facility (with a promotional rate) and $66 at another. Consider the long-term cost; if the lower-priced unit increases after four months, it might end up being more expensive in the long run.

Self-Storage vs. Full-Service Storage

Understanding the difference between self-storage and full-service storage can help you make the best choice for your needs:

• Self-Storage: In this model, you access your unit directly using your own lock. While convenient, self-storage units may not offer climate control, which can be a disadvantage in hot weather. There’s also no labor assistance, and if someone gains access, they could potentially reach your unit.
• Full-Service Storage: Full-service facilities are typically not open to the public. You must make an appointment to access your items, and staff members assist with moving and delivering your belongings. These facilities are often climate-controlled, providing better protection for your items, and they usually have security measures in place to safeguard your belongings.

The Value of Your Time

Time is precious, and convenience is invaluable. Big Box Storage in San Diego offers the ideal solution to your storage needs.

With a low-price guarantee, if you find a better quote from another similar storage facility, Big Box Storage will not only match it but also beat it by 10%. This means you won’t need to waste time hunting for competitive rates. Big Box Storage is confident in having the best prices available.

Consider the hidden costs of truck rentals, insurance for public access facilities, and the added stress of managing your belongings. Choosing Big Box Storage means you’ll receive exceptional service and peace of mind, all at an unbeatable price.

You’ll recognize our bright blue and orange portable storage units throughout San Diego. Our team is dedicated to providing you with the best value, service, and storage solutions.

If you’re in need of storage, especially in light of recent events, reach out to Big Box Storage today to set up your reservation!

If you’re among the many San Diego households considering a storage unit, you’re not alone. Choosing between a portable storage unit and a traditional self-storage unit can be a bit daunting with so many options available. Here’s a closer look at these two popular solutions to help you make an informed decision.

Portable Storage

Portable storage, also known as mobile or containerized storage, involves a storage container delivered directly to your home or business. Once loaded at your convenience, the container can either stay at your location or be transported to a secure storage facility.

Benefits of Portable Storage:

• Convenience: The unit is brought to you, saving the time and effort of driving to a facility.
• Flexibility: Load at your own pace, and the container is picked up when you’re ready.
• Secure Storage Options: Containers can be stored indoors at facilities like Big Box Storage, offering climate-controlled environments.
• Wider Service Area: Portable storage companies typically serve broader regions, making them ideal for moves or relocations.

Considerations:

• Access: Some facilities may require advance notice for container access, so check their policies.
• Delivery Fees: Portable storage often includes fees for delivery, pickup, and redelivery of the container.

Popular providers in San Diego include Big Box Storage (a locally owned company), PODS, Pack Rat, and Units.

Self-Storage

Self-storage facilities are the traditional option and are easy to find across San Diego. Renting a self-storage unit typically involves transporting your belongings to the facility yourself.

Benefits of Self-Storage:

• Accessibility: You can visit your unit anytime during the facility’s operating hours.
• Variety of Sizes: Units range from small lockers to large spaces for vehicles or furniture.
• Immediate Availability: San Diego has numerous self-storage locations, ensuring one is likely near you.

Considerations:

• Transportation Required: Renting or using a truck to move your items is typically necessary. Some companies offer free trucks for move-ins but not move-outs.
• Additional Costs: Expect administrative or “move-in” fees, typically ranging from $15 to $30, along with the cost of a lock for your unit.

Major providers in San Diego include Extra Space Storage, Public Storage, and A-1 Storage.

Key Differences

Cost

• Portable storage often includes delivery, pickup, and redelivery fees but may not charge administrative fees.
• Self-storage has no delivery fees but often charges move-in fees. Monthly rental rates for both options vary by location, unit size, and amenities (e.g., drive-up access or climate control).

Convenience

• Portable storage allows you to load the unit at your location, saving you trips to a storage facility.
• Self-storage might be more convenient for those needing frequent access to their belongings.

Security

• Portable storage units stored in a secure facility typically have fewer theft incidents since customers don’t access units directly.
• Self-storage units face slightly higher theft risks, often linked to other customers at the facility. Always inquire about security measures like surveillance, gates, and onsite staff.

Which Should You Choose?

• Choose portable storage if you value convenience, need temporary storage during a move, or prefer the flexibility of having a unit delivered to your home.
• Opt for self-storage if you require frequent access to your items or prefer a facility close to your location.

Final Tips

Before committing to any storage option, take the following steps:

• Compare costs, including delivery fees, administrative charges, and monthly rental rates.
• Check the company’s security measures and customer reviews.
• Visit the facility if possible to ensure it meets your needs.

With so many options available across San Diego County, you’re sure to find the perfect solution for your storage needs. Happy storing!

Attention San Diego college students! Big Box Storage has an unbeatable summer storage solution just for you. For a limited time, we’re offering an exclusive package for students from SDSU, USD, and other local colleges:

Here’s what’s included:

• Initial Delivery of your storage unit
• Return Pickup after summer
• Three months of storage

Here’s How It Works:

1. Delivery Made Easy: We bring the Big Box storage unit directly to your doorstep.
2. Pack and Load: Gather your friends (offer them pizza if you must!) and load up your belongings.
3. Pickup and Storage: Once packed, our friendly driver will pick up the unit and transport it to our secure San Diego facility.

Need access to your stuff over the summer? No problem! You can access your storage unit seven days a week.

Perfect Size for College Life

Our Big Box units are 8′ deep, 5′ wide, and 7′ tall, offering enough space to fit about a room to a room and a half of belongings. Need more space? No worries! We can deliver additional Big Boxes if required. Most students find one is just right.

Don’t Miss Out!

Take the stress out of summer storage with Big Box Storage. Need more space? No worries! We can deliver additional Big Boxes if required. Most students find one is just right.