WASHINGTON, DC (7News) — Self-storage is a multi-billion dollar industry. Last year, the self-storage industry in the US generated $44 billion

That is why more and more storage facilities are being built.

People rent storage units because they are moving, remodeling, inheriting their grandmother’s house with everything in it, or need extra space because they have accumulated too much stuff. These units can be expensive, so it pays to choose wisely.

“The self-storage industry is booming. I mean, if you’re looking for an indication that Americans just own too much stuff, it’s the fact that the storage industry is now a multibillion-dollar industry,” said Kevin Brasler of checkbook.org.

Not all storage facilities are the same, so it’s worth shopping around.

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“Be sure to compare prices. Our undercover buyers have contacted about 30 different facilities here in the Washington area and found that there is a large price difference between them. Often the more expensive units are closer to the city, where real estate is more expensive,” Brasler added.

Factors to consider include size, location and whether the unit is air-conditioned.

“With the heat and humidity, you might want to consider air conditioning, especially if you’re storing sensitive or valuable items that you’re worried might be damaged by the heat. I think before you choose one of these places, you should also check to see if the place is safe. I mean, how is it monitored? Is there someone there 24/7?” Brasler said.

Expect to pay between $45 and $450 per month for a storage unit, depending on various factors, and expect this cost to increase each year. Watch for additional fees and check access hours. Not all storage facilities are open 24 hours a day.

There are calculators that can help you determine how big the unit needs to be.

You can also rent a pod or a cube, which are portable metal units that are left outside your door. You fill them. Pods cost more than self-storage unless you choose to keep the unit in your home.