4 Real & Ridiculous Reasons People Use Storage for So Long?

In today’s fast-paced world, the need for extra storage space has become pretty common, not just here in Australia but around the globe. Whether it’s due to major life changes, a lack of space at home, or simply wanting to keep things tidy, storage units have become a go-to solution for many. But what often starts as a temporary fix can turn into a long-term exhausting relationship between your credit card and the storage facility. 

So, why do people end up holding onto storage units for so long?

Life Transitions and Unexpected Events that we all plan for... obviously.

A big reason people hang on to storage units for extended periods is due to major life transitions. Moving, downsizing, traveling, or inheriting a loved one’s belongings can quickly lead to an overflow of stuff. In these cases, storage units offer a convenient way to keep things safe until a more permanent solution comes along. But life doesn’t always go as planned (remember the universe is always going to plan), and what was supposed to be a short-term holiday for your goods can easily stretch into months or even years of endless storage.

(Ridiculous) Sentimental Value and (Mixed) Emotional Attachment

Another key reason is the (mixed) emotional attachment people have to their belongings. Many items in storage aren’t just things—they’re memories, encapsulated in physical form. Whether it’s childhood mementos, hideous but loved family heirlooms, or collections built over the years from your glorious travel stories, letting go of these items can be tough. This emotional connection often leads to much longer stays—and bigger bills—at storage facilities. On average, people keep their stuff in storage for about seven and a half years! Insane really...

Convenience and Procrastination of the Everyday human... 

The convenience of storage units also plays a role in their prolonged use. Once your things are tucked away, it’s easy to forget about them or delay the task of sorting through them - and that's because humans are lazy, we just are - we can’t help it.  Out of sight, out of mind, right? Especially when the credit card is silently and swiftly charged each month.

Plus, the cost of renting a storage unit, while not exactly cheap, can seem worth it when compared to the emotional and physical effort of sorting, donating, or tossing things out. And let’s be honest—storage facilities are happy to keep collecting your payments. After all, the longer you stay, the more they make, especially with those regular rent increases that tend to pop up every 9 to 12 months on average! (I would check your bill if you haven’t...) 

Overall & Underwhelming Conclusion of Storage Units, Time & Cash... 

While storage units are often seen as a fabulous short-term fix, they frequently become a long-term part of people’s lives for a variety of reasons, many of which are out of their control unfortunately. 

By understanding these factors, you can be more mindful and get moving with your storage habits and maybe even tackle that storage shame you are suffering. After all, is it really worth paying for years of storage when the reality of most storage unit contents - is that it mostly ends up being tossed out anyway! Think about it...