Cartoon movers dropping off belongings and boxes into storage rental units.

Everything You Need To Know About Self-Storage Units

Self-storage units are utilized by renters, homeowners, small and large businesses, college students, and military personnel. Renters and homeowners use self-storage facilities to create more space in their homes or properties, freeing up a closet or a garage.

Storage rentals are also frequently used to store seasonal furniture, appliances, clothing, sporting equipment, bicycles, sentimental items, holiday items, motorized vehicles, and more.

Small or large businesses free up space by storing excess office furnishings, file cabinets, electronics, records, and business supplies. College students often store dorm room furniture in a rental unit during summer breaks. Meanwhile, military personnel store their belongings while they are deployed.

Storage units are also frequently utilized by people who are remodeling and renovating their homes, as well as those who want to protect and secure their personal possessions during severe weather events.

1 Self-Storage Size Guide

Cartoon guide for storage rentals with a blue background

Storage units come in a variety of sizes. Small lockers are approximately 2 feet wide and 3 feet deep with a ceiling height of 3 to 4 feet. Average small storage units might start at 5 feet wide and 5 feet deep (5 x 5).

Medium-sized storage rentals are typically around 10 feet wide and 15 feet deep (10 x 15), while larger units measure around 10 feet wide and 30 feet deep (10 x 30), with ceiling heights ranging from 8 to 10 feet. You can refer to our Size Guide to help determine what’s appropriate for your use.

2 Self-Storage Rental Basics

Cartoon red semi-truck to represent transporting belongings to storage rental facilities

At some point, you may feel the need to declutter your home or office and find a clean, safe space to store your personal belongings. A convenient self-storage option is the best solution for you. It’s perfect for anyone downsizing, staging a house, relocating, or making more space for other belongings.

Self-storage solutions vary significantly in terms of price, square footage, and features. There are a few key things to know about storage units before renting one locally. In hot climates like Miami or Houston, for example, most renters prefer climate-controlled units over drive-up units to protect from mold and mildew. Meanwhile, business owners can opt for storage solutions that are specifically designed to store inventory or large equipment.

As a renter, you can find a storage unit to match your specific criteria, including size, features, rental terms, and price point. Then, use it to store your goods for as long as you see fit! Explore our self-storage units with 24-hour access, surveillance systems, and a range of other amenities.

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3 Self-Storage Units vs. Portable Storage or Storage Pods

Cartoon question mark to represent the difference between storage rental units and pods

Compared to self-storage units, portable storage containers are a completely different story. Offering a certain level of flexibility, convenience, and security, these containers are suitable for DIY moving and cater to the needs of individuals who require short-term or long-term storage before, during, or after a relocation process.

A POD, or portable unit, is a shell-like storage container that you can send to your home, fill with your items, and have someone deliver to a warehouse or storage facility. Companies that offer this type of service usually drop off the movable containers at the location indicated by clients and collect them when their customers’ storage needs have been fulfilled.

Portable storage containers are designed for individuals who need to drop off their goods in a specific location within a short period of time. Self-storage units enable individuals to find the ideal temporary home for their personal belongings and store them for as long as needed.

According to recent statistics, the costs associated with renting a portable storage unit may be higher than those incurred by a traditional self-storage unit. Most modern self-storage units are climate-controlled, unlike portable containers, which do not provide additional protection for fragile merchandise that could be damaged by sudden shifts in humidity and/or temperature. So, ultimately, self-storage rental units offer more flexibility.

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4 What Storage Unit Amenity Do You Need?

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Storage units are incredibly diverse and have been designed to address your specific necessities and demands. Here are a few of the most popular self-storage options to consider before renting your first unit.

Climate-Controlled Storage


These units are particularly useful for storing valuable possessions that could be damaged by temperature or humidity fluctuations. The climate control function maintains a specific level of temperature and humidity to keep your goods in excellent condition for the longest period possible.

24-Hour Access


These units allow you to benefit from unlimited visits. You can access your goods 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, without compromising the site's security. The modern access control system enables renters to come and go as they please, at their own convenience, even outside of regular operating hours.
You don’t have to provide any notice of your arrival, so this type of self-storage option offers all the freedom and flexibility you need to leave your goods in storage.

Drive-Up Storage Rentals and Electricity in the Unit


Drive-up storage units are incredibly popular these days because they allow easy and convenient access to goods via car. Simply drive up to the door, unload your boxes, and organize them without having to pass through hallways to reach your unit.
This type of self-storage option is especially efficient for people who want to store personal belongings they would normally deposit in a garage, including gardening tools, lawn mowers, holiday decorations, and more. Additionally, many facilities available near you are equipped with outlets and have electricity in every unit.
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5 What Can You Store in Self-Storage Units?

A cartoon computer represents how electronics and appliances can be stored in a storage rental

You may be wondering what type of items you can store in a self-storage unit. Aside from some hazardous items and perishable goods, the possibilities of what you can store are virtually endless.

Here are the main categories of products that can be deposited in a self-storage facility:

Electronics, small appliances, and other gadgets

Tools and heavy equipment

Seasonal clothing and personal items

Furniture from bedrooms, offices, and businesses

Non-perishable food items

Books, CDs, movies, toys

In short, you can store all the things that have been gathering dust in your home and office. From boxes of old shoes, old DVDs, and paperwork to office supplies and tools, as long as they are not perishable and do not pose any safety risks, you can put them in a self-storage unit. Please note that some storage facilities may have a list of prohibited items.

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6 What Can’t You Store in Self-Storage Units?

Cartoon burger with a red cancel sign to represent how perishable food isn’t allowed in storage rentals

Storage rental units keep your personal belongings safe, secure, and in excellent condition for as long as you want. But there are certain categories of items that simply do not belong in a rental like this.

Different storage facilities will have varying rules, but here are just a few examples of items that are generally prohibited:

Food

Guns

Pets

Live plants

Hazardous materials (gasoline, chemicals, fireworks)

Drugs or stolen items

People

Scented candles

There are several compelling reasons why you should never attempt to store these products in your unit. For example, plants could lead to mold, mildew, and foul odors in your unit. Scented soaps and candles could potentially attract pests searching for food.

Goods considered “inherently dangerous,” such as fertilizers, pesticides, biological waste, gasoline, and propane, may represent a major hazard because of their flammability and/or toxicity.

When in doubt, it is extremely important to check the facility’s rules before storing any goods on its premises. Proper research can help you find storage units in your ZIP code and rent the most suitable option for you.

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7 Can a Self-Storage Unit Be Rented Month To Month?

Cartoon contract for month-to-month storage rental units

If you’re unsure how long you'll need to use your storage rental, there are facilities that offer monthly rentals. Many people rent these units when they're selling their home to move to a new place or when they're remodeling their space, and they aren’t quite sure when they’ll be able to settle permanently.

No matter your reasons for a month-to-month rental, you don't need to worry about having a commitment you aren't comfortable with when you choose this type of contract. Simply notify the facility when you’d like to end your lease or continue making monthly payments.

You don’t need to commit to a contract for a set period, and you have more freedom when it comes to moving, remodeling, or storing your belongings. Be sure to read the terms of your policy so that you don’t encounter any issues down the road.

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8 The Best Way To Find Self-Storage Units

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Finding the right self-storage option is important. Even the best units at the most highly rated facilities may not be suitable for you if they don't meet the criteria you need. Thankfully, you don’t have to drive around looking for one! There are less time-consuming ways to find storage solutions and storage deals that suit your needs. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

  1. Use our site to find storage facilities near you by entering your ZIP code.
  2. Take a look at the amenities they offer and whether they meet your needs.
  3. Read the reviews written by real customers right here at USSelfStorage.com.

And that’s it! By learning about these storage spaces online, you can see objective opinions from people who have used them. The last thing you’d want is to waste your time and money moving your belongings to a place that’s not worth it. Thanks to our site, you can make more informed decisions and find a unit in your ZIP code. We offer options throughout the U.S. and in Puerto Rico.

For example, if you need your storage unit to be climate-controlled, you can compare units near you and determine which facilities offer the best value. Start browsing for gated facilities with surveillance and controlled access, or find storage deals on units with 24-hour access. It's well worth the time and effort to search for a storage rental facility you actually feel good about, and USSelfStorage.com makes your search easier!

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9 How Can U.S. Self Storage Assist You in Finding a Self-Storage Unit?

Cartoon gavel to represent storage rental auctions

While storage auctions aren't that common, a facility won't just keep your things indefinitely if you stop paying for the space. Paying rent on time is crucial to protect your belongings, and it can also prevent you from incurring late payment fees. Most storage facilities charge extra fees if you're late with rent, so make sure you set a reminder or schedule it for auto-pay.

10 Documents Needed To Rent a Storage Unit

Cartoon documentation needed for storage rental

When you arrive to rent a storage unit, you'll need to provide documentation. Fortunately, most storage facilities require minimal information. They simply want to verify that you are who you say you are, which can be confirmed with a driver's license or a government-issued photo ID card.

A passport is also an acceptable method of identification. Requirements will depend on the storage facility, and you can simply call the facility first and ask about the necessary documentation.

Most facilities don’t require any credit checks or background checks to rent a unit. Some New York City storage facilities conduct criminal background checks, but this is not a common practice. Unless you're renting a unit in NYC under an apartment complex, you probably won't need to consent to any kind of background check.

Just ensure you have proper identification that the storage facility accepts.

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Frequently Asked Questions – Storage Rental Units

What are the most common storage unit specials offered at storage facilities near me?

Facilities usually offer storage deals, including first month free, $1 for the month, 35% off, 50% off, or “web only” rates for reserving a storage unit online. Find the best storage specials online with USSelfStorage.com.

How do I save money while renting a storage unit near me?

Storage unit prices vary depending on the storage facility's location, the availability of units at the facility, and the proximity of the storage unit within the facility (lower floor vs. upper floor). Prices can also vary depending on factors such as climate control or drive-up access. Thankfully, USSelfStorage.com offers filters that allow you to save both money and time.

What’s the best option if you want to save money when renting a storage unit?

To save money, choose the smallest unit you can afford on an upper floor. If you don’t need climate control, choose a small drive-up unit. Also, ask about storage specials that the facility might be offering on a specific unit.

What is the average price of storage units?

A small storage unit (5 x 5, 5 x 10, 5 x 15) averages between $30 and $110 per month. A medium storage unit (10 x 10, 10 x 15) averages between $120 and $195 per month, and a large storage unit price (10 X 20, 10 x 25, 10 x 30) averages between $200 and $325 per month. Compare storage facilities to get the best price!

Do storage facilities raise your rent?

Storage facilities typically raise rent when demand for storage increases and occupancy is high. Review your lease and consult with the manager at your storage facility to gain a better understanding of how frequently the facility raises rent. Review the policy to ensure you receive adequate notice prior to receiving raises.

Are there any additional fees beyond rent and sales tax?

In addition to rent and applicable sales tax, storage rental facilities might charge a one-time administration fee upon move-in. The amount is usually around $20 to $30. This fee is typically charged by the facility to establish your account and process your lease, as well as any other related documents.

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