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Self Storage Site Planning That Sets You Up for Success

Free Conceptual Plans & Unit Mix Analysis from the Experts at MakoRabco

If you’re starting a self storage business, your site plan can make or break your project. You need to know what fits, what works, and what will generate the best return on your land. That’s where our self storage site planning services come in.
At MakoRabco, we don’t just build storage facilities; we help you plan them right from the beginning. Our free conceptual site plans and unit mix analysis give you a clear picture of what’s possible before you spend a dollar on construction.

Conceptual site plan showing layout and dimensions for a 5.82-acre self-storage property.”

Common Questions We Help Answer

We work with investors, real estate pros, and new builders every week. Here are a few of the questions we answer in nearly every project:

How many units can I fit on my site?
That depends on your land shape, local rules, and how much of it is buildable. Our conceptual plan will give you a unit count estimate with mix breakdowns.
Can I build on a slope or an odd-shaped parcel?
Most likely, yes. We’ve helped clients design around weird corners, flood zones, and elevation issues. We’ll be honest about what’s possible and what isn’t.
What’s the right unit mix for my area?
That varies by city. But we look at local demand trends, compare similar facilities, and recommend a unit mix that balances small, medium, and large sizes.
Do I need to own the land already?
Nope. We’ll run a conceptual site plan even for properties you’re still considering. In fact, we often help clients choose between two or three potential sites.
How long does it take to get a plan?
Most site plans are ready in 3–5 business days after we get the needed info (site address, goals, and access type). We’ll walk you through every step.

Why Site Planning Matters More Than You Think

A self storage facility isn’t just a bunch of boxes. Every site has its own challenges, setbacks, slopes, utility easements, zoning limits. Without a smart plan, you might waste valuable square footage or miss out on key revenue.

 

Contact MakoRabco today to get free site plans of your next facility
Detailed self-storage site plan layout showing building rows, drive aisles, and unit distribution designed by MakoRabco.

That’s why self storage site planning is one of the most important steps in the entire process.

Here’s what good planning can do for you:

  • Maximize rentable square footage
  • Fit more units on less land
  • Meet zoning rules without redesigning mid-project
  • Improve traffic flow and customer access
  • Plan for future add-ons or expansions

Our team brings 40+ years of experience and thousands of successful builds to your project, starting with a simple free plan.

What’s Included in Your Free Self Storage Site Plan

When you request our conceptual site plan for self storage, we give you real answers, not generic layouts. Your plan is tailored to your actual property (or target lot), using satellite maps, city requirements, and your business goals.

We include:

  • Conceptual site layout with drive lanes, unit rows, and entry/exit points
  • Self storage unit mix analysis showing unit sizes, quantities, and rental potential
  • Building layout recommendations based on slope, access, and use type
  • Notes on setbacks, drainage, and other zoning-related items

All designed to help you build smarter from day one.

Self-storage unit mix analysis chart showing unit sizes, rentable square footage, and project summary for a 5.82-acre facility.

Multi-Story? Boat & RV? We Plan for That Too

Not every site works for a single-story. That’s why we plan across all major build types:

Build Type

When It Makes Sense

Special Planning Notes

Single-Story

Flat, wide lots in suburban or rural areas

Easier permitting, fast build
Multi-Story Urban or tight spaces where land is expensive Elevator placement, stair access, and upper-level discounts
Boat & RV (Canopy or Enclosed) Near lakes, storage corridors, or RV parks Wider turn radius, taller clearance
Conversions Repurposed retail, office, or warehouse buildings Load-bearing walls, column spacing
Climate-Controlled Areas with extreme temps or higher-income renters HVAC zones, insulation, and layout efficiency

If you’re not sure which type is best for your land, we’ll walk you through the pros and cons during the planning call.

Here’s What You Get (No Strings Attached)

Every site planning request includes:

  • One-on-one call with a MakoRabco site planning expert
  • Custom conceptual layout tailored to your lot
  • Suggested building type(s) and placement
  • Unit mix analysis with estimated rentable square footage
  • Free access to our full suite of planning guides

 

Detailed conceptual self-storage site plan showing building rows, drive aisles, office location, and traffic flow arrows.

Want to keep moving after that? We can also help with:

  • Full architectural design
  • Engineering services
  • Budget estimates
  • Zoning support
  • Construction timelines
Unit mix analysis chart showing the distribution of common self-storage unit sizes, including 5x5, 5x10, 10x10, 10x20, and other unit types.”

You Don’t Have to Guess. We’ve Got Your Back

MakoRabco has helped thousands of people take their first step toward a successful storage business. Some started with raw land. Some had old buildings they wanted to convert. Others had no clue what their land was even good for.

Our job is to make it simple and to help you avoid the expensive mistakes that come from guessing.

Let’s talk. We’ll review your site, walk you through the process, and build a clear plan forward.

Ready to Start Your Site Plan?

It’s 100% free and comes with no pressure or commitments. Just fill out the short form below or talk to our team today. You’ll get a custom conceptual site plan, unit mix breakdown, and expert advice that helps you plan smarter from the start.

Start building with confidence. Start with MakoRabco.