Best Self-Storage Companies

When selecting a storage unit, you have a few options. There are indoor and outdoor units, both of which offer a variety of features and add-ons.

• Indoor storage units: Many consumers choose indoor storage units because they typically have climate control. If you’re storing valuable or otherwise sensitive items and are concerned about warping, extreme temperatures or other natural elements, indoor facilities can be a good choice. Indoor storage is particularly common in large metro areas and tends to offer somewhat smaller units and more security than an outdoor facility.
• Outdoor storage units: You’ll likely find larger units for rent if you opt for an outdoor storage facility. Most outdoor storage units are gated and require a special access code or card to enter for added security. Outdoor storage units are ideal for storing large items and for those who want drive-up unit access.

Storage units are measured in square feet. They typically range from 5 feet long up to 30 feet long. A 5-foot-by-5-foot storage unit is about the size of a closet, while a large 10-foot-by-30-foot unit is larger than the average garage and can fit the items from a furnished three-bedroom home, including appliances and boxes.

To select the right size, match your specific belongings to unit dimensions and consider how often you'll need to access items.

Common storage unit sizes

The typical cost for a storage unit ranges from $90 to $290 a month based on the size of the unit, facility location and facility features. It's important to compare prices and look into any additional fees that could arise.

Average monthly cost by unit size

Additional fees

Additional fees that you should also expect include:

• Administrative fee: One-time setup charge added at move-in, typically $10 to $50
• Security deposit: Refundable or nonrefundable amount held against unpaid rent or unit damage
• Lock purchase: Many facilities require on-site lock purchase or mandate specific lock types for security
• Tenant protection or insurance fee: Monthly charge for facility coverage if you cannot provide proof of personal insurance
• Proration: Partial-month billing when you move in mid-cycle or when billing periods reset
• Taxes and surcharges: Sales tax or municipal fees applied to rent and optional services
• Late fee: Charge assessed after the grace period if payment misses the due date
• Returned payment fee: Fee for declined cards, stopped checks or insufficient funds
• Access card or key replacement: Charge for lost keypads, fobs or physical keys

Common discounts

Some self-storage companies offer discounts for college students and military personnel. Many also run various promotions and discounts for storage.

• Military: Most self-storage and portable storage companies offer discounts to active military personnel. If you choose to do a personally procured move (PPM), you can be reimbursed by the government for 95% of your moving expenses.
• College students: Some companies offer college student discounts. Students currently attending a college or university can save money and work around class schedules when moving in or out of their homes or apartments.
• Promotions: Check for promo codes, bundles and other special offers when pricing various companies online. Some facilities may offer a special web price that is lower than their typical rate. Other common promotions include the first month free (or heavily discounted) or a small percentage off your monthly rate for a set period of time.

Different facilities may vary in what they offer. For climate-sensitive items, CubeSmart and Extra Space are the safest choices on paper because both offer 55- to 80-degree climate-control range. Public Storage offers outdoor, covered and enclosed vehicle storage, plus some 24/7-access locations, but availability is somewhat limited.

In general, we recommend looking for storage companies that have:

• Security: Controlled access, 24/7 video surveillance and additional locks are key security features facilities may provide. Be sure to check out the security features each facility offers.
• Climate control: Some storage companies offer climate-controlled storage facilities. People with wooden or leather furniture, appliances, instruments, artwork or photos should consider using climate-controlled storage.
• Convenient access: If you need to access your unit outside of normal business hours, make sure your storage unit offers 24/7 access. Many storage companies have a gated entrance unlocked by a personal code that grants customers access to their items at any time, while others only allow access during their hours of operation when the office is staffed.

Without a doubt, the hardest part about using a storage unit is move-in day. Moving requires supplies and resources you may not have or know you need. These services aren’t available from every facility but can definitely help make the move-in process easier.

• Truck rental: Some storage facilities offer free use of a moving truck when you sign up. This is a great way to get settled into the unit without having to rent a truck yourself. Check the terms and conditions when you sign up. For example, some facilities may only offer you use of the truck for a limited time, like a few hours on sign-up day.
• Moving labor: If you do not want to worry about loading and unloading your unit or if you are unable to do so, some storage facilities may partner with local moving companies to assist with labor needs. You can also hire an independent moving company or get friends and family to help.
• Supplies: Check to see if the storage facility sells moving supplies such as boxes, bubble wrap and tape. Many offer these supplies to make the facility a one-stop shop for movers.
• Unit modifications: Check for different modifications you might find beneficial, such as shelving, lighting, video monitoring or professional organization services.

Renting a storage unit follows a straightforward process whether you complete it online or at the facility.

1. Compare facilities and unit options: Review location, unit size, indoor or drive-up access, climate control, operating hours, security features and availability. Focus on the best storage units that match your specific needs for space and access type.
2. Check availability and select a move-in date: Choose your unit type and confirm when you need access to begin. Weekend and month-end dates often fill quickly at popular facilities.
3. Reserve the unit: Most facilities offer online reservation with either no cost or a small refundable deposit. In-person reservations allow staff to confirm unit dimensions and availability before securing your hold.
4. Understand the reservation hold window: Confirm how long your unit remains reserved and what happens if you arrive late. Hold periods typically range from 24 to 72 hours, though facilities may extend this window if contacted.
5. Complete move-in paperwork and payment: Bring government-issued ID and an accepted payment method. Online move-in requires uploading ID, e-signing the rental agreement and setting up autopay. In-person move-in involves completing these steps at the counter.
6. Receive access credentials: You'll get an access code for keypads, gate credentials through an app or a physical key. Confirm gate hours, elevator access and after-hours policies before leaving.
7. Move in and verify your unit: Check the unit number, door operation and cleanliness. Place your lock, then store your receipt and access information securely.

Facilities offering online move-in or skip-the-counter service provide the fastest start, with access codes and unit assignments ready upon arrival.