Mini storage, also known as self-storage or storage units, refers to a type of service where individuals or businesses can rent a small storage space or locker to store their belongings, usually for a short period of time. Mini storage facilities typically offer a range of storage unit sizes, from small lockers to large rooms. Some storage facilities also offer climate-controlled units for sensitive items like artwork or electronics.
Mini storage units are often used to store items that people don’t have space for in their homes or businesses, such as seasonal decorations, sports equipment, or furniture. The units are also commonly used by Texas businesses to store excess inventory or archives. Renting a mini storage unit allows Texans to free up space in their homes or offices without having to get rid of their belongings, and provides a secure and accessible location for their items.
When did mini-storage become popular?
Mini-storage has been around in some form for several decades, but it became popular in the United States in the 1970s and 1980s. This storage industry growth was due to a combination of factors, including a growing population (especially in Texas – see chart below which shows a 46% population increase in Texas between 1971 and 1989), increasing urbanization, and changing lifestyles that led people to accumulate more possessions.
Population of Texas between 1971 to 1989
1971 11,509,848
1973 12,019,543
1975 12,568,843
1977 13,193,050
1979 13,888,371
1981 14,746,318
1983 15,751,676
1985 16,272,734
1987 16,621,791
1989 16,806,735
The first modern self-storage facility is believed to have been built in Texas in the mid-1960s, and the concept quickly caught on in other parts of the United States. By the 1980s, there were thousands of mini-storage facilities across the country, and the industry continued to grow through the 1990s and 2000s.
Today in 2023, with over 30 million people who now live in Texas, mini-storage remains a popular option for Texans who need extra space to store their belongings. The industry has evolved to offer a wide range of amenities, such as 24-hour access, climate-controlled units, and online reservation and leasing systems, making it easier and more convenient than ever to rent a storage unit in Texas.
What is the difference between “mini storage” and “self-storage?”
The terms “mini storage” and “self-storage” are often used interchangeably to refer to the same thing: the rental of storage units for personal and / or commercial use. However, some people use the term “mini storage” to refer specifically to smaller storage units, while “self-storage” may refer to larger units as well.
In general, the main difference between mini-storage and self-storage is the size of the units offered. Mini storage typically refers to facilities that offer smaller units, often ranging from 5 x 5 (25 square feet) feet to 10 x 10 feet (100 square feet). These units are often used by individuals to store personal items such as seasonal decorations, sports equipment, or furniture.
Self-storage, on the other hand, may refer to facilities that offer a wider range of unit sizes, including larger units such as 10 x 20 feet (200 square feet) or 10 x 30 feet (300 square feet). These larger units are often used by businesses to store inventory or equipment, or by individuals who need to store larger items, such as pool tables, construction tools, pianos, vehicles, or boats.
However, it’s important to note that the terms “mini storage” and “self-storage” are not always used in a consistent or standardized way across Texas. Different facilities in Texas may use the terms interchangeably. The most important factor when choosing a storage facility is to find one that meets your specific needs in terms of unit size, location, security, and other amenities.
Who coined the term mini storage?
It’s not totally clear exactly who coined the specific term “mini storage,” as the concept of renting small storage units has been around for decades. Nevertheless, the term “self-storage” is commonly used as a synonym for mini-storage, and it is believed to have been coined by the founder of the first modern self-storage facility, Russ Williams.
According to self-storage industry lore, Williams built the first self-storage facility in Odessa, Texas in the mid-1960s after noticing that people needed more space to store their possessions. Mr. Williams originally called his facility “Bunker,” but later changed the name to “A-1 U-Store-It.”
While the specific origin of the term “mini storage” is unclear, it is likely that the term was popularized in the 1970s and 1980s as the industry grew and facilities began offering smaller units to meet the needs of customers who didn’t need a large amount of storage space.
About self-storage pioneer Russ Williams
Russ Williams is a pioneer of the modern self-storage industry, and he is best known as the founder of the first self-storage facility in the United States. Williams was born in 1926 in Odessa, Texas, and he worked as an engineer in the oil industry before becoming an entrepreneur / pioneer in the self-storage industry.
In the mid-1960s, Williams noticed that Texans needed more space to store their possessions. He came up with the idea of renting out small, garage-like units for people to store their belongings. He built the first modern self-storage facility in Odessa, Texas, and he called it “Bunker” because the units were built into the ground like bomb shelters.
Williams later changed the name of his facility to “A-1 U-Store-It,” and he expanded his business to include other locations in Texas and beyond. Mr. Williams is credited with creating the modern self-storage industry, which has grown into a multi-billion dollar industry with thousands of facilities and employees across the country. Russ Williams passed away in 2006, but his legacy lives on in the self-storage industry.
About Amy’s Attic Self Storage
Amy’s Attic Self Storage is a premium chain of self-storage facilities based in Central Texas. The locally owned company offers a variety of storage unit sizes, ranging from smaller 5 x 5 units to larger 10 x 30 units. The modern facilities also offer climate-controlled units, drive-up units, and RV / boat / large vehicle storage. In addition to traditional self-storage services, Amy’s Attic Self Storage also offers other convenient amenities such as online bill payment, security cameras, gated access, and on-site management. The company is committed to providing customers with a safe, clean, and convenient storage experience.
As of March 2023, Amy’s Attic Self Storage operates 5 locations throughout Central Texas, including facilities in Waco, Temple, and Belton. The company has received numerous awards (including the Belton Chamber 2022 Business of the Year Award) and recognitions for its quality service and commitment to excellence in the self-storage industry. This Texas-based business proudly maintains a 4.7 customer review rating on Google or higher for all storage facility locations.
