Most Asked Questions About Self Storage

What is self storage and how does it work?

Self storage is a convenient solution for individuals and businesses to store belongings in a secure, off-site location. The service provides rented spaces, commonly known as storage units, where users can store personal items, business inventory, or other possessions.

1. Types of Self Storage: There are several types of self storage, such as climate-controlled units, drive-up access units, and specialty storage for items like vehicles, boats, and RVs. Each type caters to specific storage needs.
2. How to Rent a Unit: Renting a storage unit typically involves selecting a size, completing a rental agreement, and setting up a payment plan. Some facilities offer flexible rental terms, from short-term to long-term, depending on your needs.
3. Accessing Your Storage Unit: Most self storage facilities offer 24/7 access to your unit, while others have restricted hours. It’s essential to understand the facility’s access policy when choosing a unit.
4. Security Features: Modern self storage facilities often include robust security measures such as surveillance cameras, gated entry, security personnel, and individual unit alarms to ensure the safety of your belongings.
5. Cost of Self Storage: Prices vary depending on the unit size, location, and any additional features like climate control. Many facilities offer monthly rentals with no long-term contracts required.
6. Self Storage for Businesses: Businesses often use self storage for inventory management, document storage, and as a cost-effective alternative to renting additional office or warehouse space.
7. Climate-Controlled Units: If you’re storing sensitive items such as electronics, antiques, or documents, a climate-controlled unit is recommended. These units maintain a stable temperature and humidity level, protecting items from environmental damage.
8. How to Organize Your Storage Unit: Organizing your storage unit efficiently can save space and make accessing items easier. Use shelving, stackable bins, and a clear labeling system for quick retrieval of your belongings.
9. What to Store: Self storage is suitable for almost anything, including furniture, seasonal items, clothing, and even vehicles. However, hazardous materials and perishable goods are generally prohibited.
10. Ending Your Storage Agreement: When you no longer need your storage unit, ending the agreement is straightforward. Most facilities require notice, and you must remove all items before closing the account.

Self Storage Feature	Description
Unit Size Options	Ranges from small (5×5) to large (10×30)
Climate Control	Temperature-regulated units for sensitive items
Access Hours	24/7 or limited access depending on the facility
Security Measures	Surveillance, gated entry, alarms, and security personnel

What size storage unit do I need?

Determining the right storage unit size is critical to ensure you have enough space without overspending on unused room. Here’s how to assess your storage needs:

1. Assess Your Items: The first step is to make a list of all the items you plan to store. Group similar items together, such as furniture, boxes, or equipment, to visualize the space required.
2. Understand Unit Sizes: Storage units come in standard sizes, such as 5×5, 5×10, 10×10, 10×20, and larger. A 5×5 unit is typically enough for small furniture and a few boxes, while a 10×20 can accommodate the contents of a multi-bedroom home.
3. Use a Size Guide: Most storage facilities offer a size guide to help estimate the space needed. For example:
   • 5×5: Small boxes, seasonal items
   • 10×10: Studio apartment furniture and boxes
   • 10×20: Contents of a multi-room house
4. Consider Future Needs: If you plan to add more items later, it might be worth renting a slightly larger unit to avoid the hassle of upgrading later on.
5. Think About Access: Ensure there’s enough space to move around inside the unit if you’ll need to frequently access your items. Consider leaving a walkway down the center of the unit for easier retrieval.
6. Visualize with Stacking: Many items, like boxes and furniture, can be stacked to maximize space. A small unit may suffice if you plan to stack items efficiently.
7. Climate Control Consideration: For delicate items that require climate control, you may need to rent a larger unit if you want to avoid stacking sensitive items.
8. Seek Expert Advice: If you’re unsure about the size, most storage facilities have staff who can help guide you based on the items you plan to store.
9. Utilize Online Tools: Many facilities offer online calculators where you input the types of items you have, and it suggests the appropriate unit size.
10. Overestimate Slightly: It’s better to have a bit of extra room than to find out that your unit is too small, so if in doubt, opt for the larger size.

Unit Size	Best For
5×5	Small furniture, boxes, seasonal items
5×10	Small apartment, home office items
10×10	One-bedroom apartment furniture
10×20	Multi-room home contents, including large furniture

How secure is self storage?

Security is one of the primary concerns when renting a self storage unit. Facilities typically offer various features to ensure the safety of your belongings:

1. 24/7 Surveillance: Most self storage facilities are equipped with security cameras that monitor the premises around the clock, providing constant oversight.
2. Gated Access: Facilities often require a code or key card to enter through a gated entrance, ensuring only authorized individuals can access the storage area.
3. Individual Unit Locks: In addition to facility-wide security, each storage unit is usually equipped with a lock that only the renter can access. Some facilities offer advanced lock systems like electronic keypads.
4. Alarm Systems: Many modern self storage units have individual alarms that will trigger if an unauthorized person attempts to access the unit, providing an extra layer of protection.
5. On-Site Personnel: Some storage facilities have on-site managers or security personnel to provide an additional human presence, enhancing safety and responding quickly to any security breaches.
6. Lighting: Adequate lighting both inside and outside the storage facility is essential for safety. Well-lit areas deter potential thieves and provide peace of mind when accessing your unit at night.
7. Insurance: Most facilities offer or require insurance for stored items. In case of theft, fire, or other unexpected incidents, insurance ensures that your items are covered.
8. Access Control Systems: Facilities often have access control systems that track who enters and leaves, providing an additional level of security. This ensures that only verified customers can enter the premises.
9. Security Audits: Reputable storage facilities perform regular audits of their security systems to ensure everything is functioning properly and to identify any areas of improvement.
10. Customer Reviews: Checking customer reviews online can also give you insight into a facility’s security. Positive reviews mentioning security measures can help validate your choice of storage facility.

Security Feature	Description
Surveillance Cameras	24/7 monitoring of facility grounds
Gated Access	Controlled entry via keypad or key card
Unit Alarms	Alarms triggered by unauthorized access attempts
On-Site Personnel	Human security presence during business hours

How much does self storage cost?

Self storage costs vary depending on a variety of factors, such as location, unit size, and extra amenities. Here’s a breakdown of what influences the price:

1. Location: Storage units in urban areas tend to be more expensive than those in rural or suburban locations due to higher demand and land costs.
2. Unit Size: The larger the unit, the higher the monthly rental fee. Common sizes and their approximate costs:
   • 5×5: $40–$70 per month
   • 10×10: $100–$150 per month
   • 10×20: $200–$300 per month
3. Climate Control: Units with climate control usually cost 20–30% more than standard units due to the added utility expenses involved in maintaining temperature and humidity levels.
4. Length of Rental: Some facilities offer discounts for long-term rentals, while others may offer special pricing for short-term use. Be sure to ask about promotional offers.
5. Additional Fees: Many storage facilities charge an initial administration fee, which typically ranges from $10–$25. There may also be fees for late payments, locks, or optional services like insurance.
6. Promotions and Discounts: Many facilities offer first-month-free promotions or discounts for new customers. Additionally, some offer student, military, or senior discounts.
7. Insurance: Storage insurance may be required, and it typically costs an extra $10–$25 per month depending on the coverage level. It’s important to check whether your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance already covers stored items.
8. Location Features: Premium locations, such as those closer to city centers, tend to cost more. However, if proximity is important for frequent access, the convenience may be worth the higher cost.
9. Specialty Storage: Storing vehicles, RVs, or boats in specialty storage units can cost significantly more, with prices ranging from $100 to $400 depending on the size and features.
10. Negotiating Rates: It’s always a good idea to ask if the facility offers price matching or if there’s room for negotiation on long-term rentals.

Factor	Cost Influence
Location	Higher in cities, lower in rural areas
Unit Size	Larger units cost more
Climate Control	20–30% more than standard units
Additional Fees	Admin fees, insurance, late fees
Specialty Storage	Vehicle and RV storage is pricier

What can’t I store in a self storage unit?

When using self storage, there are specific items that most facilities prohibit due to safety, legal, or environmental concerns:

1. Hazardous Materials: Items such as gasoline, paint, chemicals, and explosives are generally prohibited. These materials pose a fire risk or could damage the facility and surrounding units.
2. Perishable Goods: Food and other perishable items are not allowed as they can attract pests and lead to mold or decay, potentially affecting other units.
3. Illegal Items: Storing illegal drugs, stolen property, or any items involved in illegal activities is strictly prohibited.
4. Living Beings: You cannot use a storage unit as a place to house live animals or plants. These require proper ventilation, light, and care, which a storage unit cannot provide.
5. Flammable Items: Items like propane tanks, fireworks, and lighter fluid are not allowed due to their flammable nature. Storing such items poses a significant risk of fire.
6. Medical Waste: Any form of medical or biological waste is banned due to health and safety regulations. These items require special handling and disposal procedures.
7. Weapons and Ammunition: While some storage facilities allow firearms with proper documentation, many ban ammunition and firearms altogether due to safety concerns.
8. Cash and Valuables: It’s not advisable to store large sums of cash, valuable jewelry, or irreplaceable items. While storage facilities are secure, they are not designed to protect high-value items like a bank vault would.
9. Vehicles Without Registration: Many facilities allow vehicle storage, but unregistered or inoperable vehicles may be restricted. Always check with the facility for their specific rules on vehicle storage.
10. Tires: Some storage units limit the number of tires you can store due to their difficulty to dispose of and potential environmental regulations regarding tire storage.

By following these guidelines, you’ll ensure compliance with facility rules and help maintain the safety of the self storage environment for everyone.

Prohibited Items	Reason for Prohibition
Hazardous Materials	Fire and safety risk
Perishable Goods	Attracts pests, mold, and decay
Illegal Items	Legal restrictions
Flammable Items	Fire hazard
Medical Waste	Health and safety regulations