If you’re looking to join the 18% of Americans who keep stuff in storage, it’s important to know how to rent a storage unit that fits your belongings and budget.
While there are a few steps, the process usually involves reserving your unit online, providing ID, signing paperwork on-site, and moving in. On average, most units cost about $85 per month.
When you haven’t rented a storage unit before, it can be overwhelming to know exactly what you’ll need to do to get it done. Thankfully, this guide will walk you through how storage units work, how to rent one, how to figure out what size you need, and the move-in process. Whether you’re storing seasonal gear or putting your things in storage during a big move, you’ll be able to navigate the rental process like a pro.
How Storage Units Work
Storage units are monthly rentals. Once you sign the agreement and make your first payment, you can store almost anything that fits inside. However, there are some very notable exceptions.
Here are items you should NOT put in a storage unit:
- Living animals
- Perishable food
- Pet food
- Illegal substances
- Paint
- Fertilizer
- Flammable items like gasoline, fireworks, or propane
- Other hazardous items
When you’re checking into storage units, you’ll usually choose between indoor and outdoor units and decide whether you need climate control. Units are secured with locks, but you’re responsible for locking your door and keeping the key or code. Once your items are locked up, you can usually access them during business hours. Many companies offer 24/7 access.
Common reasons for renting a storage unit
- Seasonal storage
- Moving between homes
- Needing more space than you have at home
- Renovating your house
- Going away to college
- Serving in the military
- Storing an RV, ATV, or other vehicles
- Temporarily living in a smaller space
- Storing business inventory
How to Rent a Storage Unit Step-by-Step
To rent a storage unit, you’ll usually follow this process: choose a facility, select the most convenient unit size, pay the first month’s rent, provide ID, sign your rental agreement, and move your things in. Most places let you reserve and pay online in just a few minutes. Here are 9 steps you’ll typically take from start to finish.
- Decide what you’ll store. Are you stacking boxes or fitting in big, bulky pieces of furniture? If you’re putting a lot of stuff in storage, make an inventory checklist to estimate how much space you’ll need.
- Choose the right unit size. If you only have boxes and totes, you might be able to get away with an affordable 5 ft x 5 ft unit. For a 2-bedroom house, a 10 ft x 20 ft unit could be a better fit. Check out our storage unit size chart to see what you can fit in common storage unit sizes.
- Think about access. Will you need to move things in and out of the storage unit frequently? You might want a drive-up unit. Being able to park right in front of the door is a huge time-saver.
- Compare facilities and read reviews. Use our top questions to ask before renting a storage unit as you compare companies. Check for security features such as motion sensors, alarms, and gates, and make sure the facility allows 24-hour access. Scan customer reviews for red flags such as pests, break-ins, water damage, and billing issues.
- Determine what you need to provide. Read the rental terms to see if you need to provide a lock and proof of rental insurance.
- Reserve or rent online. Figuring out how to rent a storage unit online is pretty easy — just pick the unit you want, fill in your contact info, and guarantee it with a credit card. Some places even let you pay and sign the contract online.
- Bring documentation to the storage facility. Most places ask for an ID and proof of rental insurance. You must be at least 18 to rent a storage unit, since the contract is legally binding.
- Sign the contract and pay. If you haven’t done it online, sign the contract and pay any required fees, such as a security deposit, administration fee, and insurance.
- Move into the unit. A good rule of thumb is to put heavy items on the bottom and stack lighter ones so nothing gets crushed. If your unit doesn’t have climate control, don’t store fragile items such as electronics or musical instruments. You should also make sure you leave some kind of path so you can reach the back of the unit. Make sure to test the lock before you leave.
What You Need to Rent a Storage Unit
To rent a storage unit, you need a valid photo ID, a payment method, and (depending on the facility) proof of rental insurance.
Every storage facility has different rules, but here are some items that you might need on hand:
- Valid ID: Show a current photo ID, such as a driver’s license or passport.
- Proof of address: Check the storage facility’s rental rules or call to see if you need to provide a recent utility bill or bank statement with your current address.
- Payment method: Most facilities accept payment with a credit or debit card, with discounts for setting up autopay.
- Proof of insurance: Check the rental agreement to see if you need storage insurance. Your homeowners insurance might be enough — look for “off-premises personal property” coverage.
- Credit check: Storage facilities don’t usually run your credit, but they might do a soft check if you have a history of late payments with the company.
- Lock: Some facilities provide locks, while others require you to provide your own. Call or check the website for specifics.
Common questions about renting a storage unit
Q: Do they run your credit to rent a storage unit?
A: Most facilities don’t perform a credit check unless you’re financing payments.
Q: Do I need insurance?
A: Many facilities require basic coverage, either through them or your renter’s insurance. Make sure you check your rental agreement thoroughly to see what kind of coverage is accepted by your specific unit.
How Much Does a Storage Unit Cost?
Monthly storage unit costs usually range from $50-$300, depending on a variety of factors. What you pay depends mostly on how much space you need. Here are the average monthly prices for a variety of unit sizes:
| Storage Unit Size | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| 5 ft x 5 ft | $50–$70 |
| 5 ft x 10 ft | $65–$100 |
| 5 ft x 15 ft | $90–$130 |
| 10 ft x 10 ft | $110–$150 |
| 10 ft x 15 ft | $140–$180 |
| 10 ft x 20 ft | $160–$220 |
| 10 ft x 30 ft | $200–$300 |
Hidden fees can also affect how much it costs to rent a storage unit:
If you’re looking to save, ask about discounts for first-time renters or long-term contracts. Many companies also offer military discounts and seasonal promotions. You might be able to negotiate a better price if you’re renting during off-peak months, or you’re flexible on unit size or location.
What Size Storage Unit Do I Need?
The right storage unit size depends on your home size and what you’re storing. Start by measuring the biggest items to figure out the minimum amount of space you need. Then, you can try to fit everything else around the bigger pieces.
“…[M]ost storage facilities offer month-to-month rentals with no long-term contracts. Many have a one-month minimum, though some allow short-term or prorated partial-month rentals.”
For example, if you have a sofa that can fit upright in a 5×5 or 5×10 unit, you can stack the boxes around it. If you have a sofa, a couple of dressers, and a dining room set, you’ll probably need a bigger unit. If you’re having trouble visualizing the space, use painter’s tape to outline the storage unit size on your floor, and see what it can fit inside. Remember, you have vertical space to use, too!
Understanding Storage Unit Options
Size isn’t the only thing to consider when you’re picking out a storage unit. It’s also important to think about climate control and whether you need an indoor or outdoor unit.
Indoor vs. Outdoor Storage Units
Indoor units have doors that open inside a building, so you don’t have to worry about the weather. Some facilities allow you to drive right in. For others, you’ll need to load your stuff onto a cart and bring it inside.
Pros of indoor units:
- Better moisture and humidity protection
- Enhanced security
Cons of indoor units:
- Higher price
- Limited accessibility
Outdoor units open directly to the outside. You can drive right up to the door for quick loading, but your items will be exposed to weather, including humidity and temperature swings.
Pros of outdoor units:
- More affordable pricing
- Easy access
Cons of outdoor units:
- No temperature or humidity control
- Greater risk of moisture damage
In general, indoor units are great for valuables and items sensitive to temperature and moisture. Outdoor units are cost-effective and convenient for boats, vehicles, tools, and sturdy items.
Climate-Controlled vs. Regular Storage Units
Climate-controlled storage stabilizes temperature and humidity, which is perfect for protecting your electronics, photos, important papers, and wood furniture. It can also protect fabric-covered furniture and mattresses from mold and mildew.
In a regular storage unit, the temperature and humidity can vary based on the weather. These units are usually best for durable items, like your tool collection, patio furniture, and recreational vehicles. If your area has extreme seasonal weather, make sure your belongings can withstand big temperature swings.
Regular storage units vs. climate-controlled storage units
| Feature | Regular Unit | Climate-Controlled Unit |
| Temperature | Varies with the weather | 55° – 80°F |
| Best for | Tools, outdoor gear | Electronics, photos, fabrics |
| Cost | Lower | +25% – 40% premium |
Can You Rent a Storage Unit Online?
Most storage facilities allow you to rent a storage unit conveniently online. You’ll do everything over the internet, including uploading your ID and signing the rental agreement. Some places don’t even have staff on-site — you can get in with a code and call if you need help.
How to Rent a Storage Unit Online
- Search: Look for storage facilities in your city or ZIP code.
- Choose and reserve: Pick the right unit size and reserve it online.
- E-sign and pay: Complete your lease electronically and add a payment method or set up autopay.
- Get your gate code: Check your email or online account for access details.
- Move in: You can usually move in any time once your reservation is confirmed.
Can You Rent a Storage Unit Short-Term?
Yes, most storage facilities offer month-to-month rentals with no long-term contracts. Many have a one-month minimum, though some allow short-term or prorated partial-month rentals. And even if you’ve paid for a month, you can always take out your stuff at any time.
If you move out early, a few storage companies will refund you for the days you don’t use. Check your rental agreement for specifics.
Common Mistakes When Renting a Storage Unit
Figuring out how to rent a storage unit can be a bit confusing, especially if it’s your first time, so it’s easy to make mistakes. Make sure you have a great experience by avoiding common pitfalls:
- Forgetting to check gate hours: Some companies have strict access hours for security. Get there too late, and you’ll have to wait until the next day to get your stuff.
- Skipping insurance coverage: The storage unit company will not automatically cover any damage that happens to your items. Insurance can pay you back if your stuff is stolen, damaged by a natural disaster, or lost in a fire at the storage facility.
- Ignoring the climate: Weather changes can lead to huge temperature and moisture swings in storage units without climate control. If you forget to consider heat and humidity, you might end up with warped wood chairs or a moldy mattress.
- Not checking move-out rules: Some companies require 10 to 30 days’ notice before you move out. Otherwise, you’ll end up paying for another month.
- Failing to check security: Ask your storage facility about security measures to help protect your belongings and to ensure you feel comfortable when you’re there alone.
- Not stacking safely: Prevent your stuff from getting crushed by putting heavy items on the bottom and lighter things on top.
Preparing Your Stuff for Your Storage Unit
You picked a safe storage facility and rented a unit, and now it’s time to get your stuff ready for storage. Here’s what to do before you move in:
- Make sure everything is clean and dry: Before storing your items, clean them thoroughly and let them dry completely. This helps prevent mildew and corrosion.
- Wrap fabric items: Cover fabric furniture and mattresses in plastic wrap to keep out dirt and moisture. Don’t pull it too tight — the plastic should be loose enough to allow airflow. Trapping moisture inside will degrade your items.
- Use plenty of padding: Prevent furniture edges from nicks and scratches by wrapping them in moving blankets. You can also slice open a foam pool noodle and slip it over the edges of tabletops, bed frames, and furniture. Put TVs and monitors in their original boxes, or wrap them carefully and store them on top with the screen facing up.
- Invest in quality boxes: Choose heavy-duty boxes or plastic bins, and avoid overloading them to prevent crushing. Wrap anything breakable in bubble wrap and blankets for extra peace of mind.
- Label boxes on the top and sides: This allows you to identify what’s in the box from any angle. You can also make an inventory list for each one, so you can find a specific item without digging through a bunch of boxes.
- Make a packing layout: Think about what you might need while your stuff is in storage, and try to position it near the door. Consider drawing out the layout — that way, you’ll know exactly where to look in case you need to find something in the back.
As you pack, make sure to read your rental agreement to find out what’s not allowed in storage. Flammable and hazardous items are almost always banned, so you’ll have to make other arrangements for things like fuel and paint.
Getting Your Stuff to a Storage Unit
How you’ll get your stuff to the storage facility is easy to overlook when deciding how to rent a storage unit. It’s worth considering — the right transportation option can make your experience a lot smoother.
Here are a few common ways to move your belongings to a storage unit:
- Drive in your own vehicle: This is the cheapest option, but it takes a lot of time and energy if you have a lot of stuff. It may not be practical if your vehicle can’t fit large or bulky furniture.
- Rent a vehicle: Rent a moving pickup, van, or truck for the day, and transport everything at once. This costs more, but it saves time.
- Use a moving container: Load everything into the moving container at your house, and the company will move it to your storage facility for you to unload. Companies like PODS can even store the container for you temporarily. This option is convenient but more expensive.
- Hire movers: Some movers are willing to go to storage units — you’ll pay more, but you’ll save a ton of time and prevent injuries. With HireAHelper, you can save by hiring labor-only movers for loading and unloading.
If you’ve never done it before, renting a storage unit can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry — with a bit of research and attention to detail, it’s a breeze to find the right unit for the right price.
FAQs
How long does it take to rent a storage unit?
You can rent a storage unit online in just a few minutes. If the company requires you to sign a contract and provide ID in person, the rental process could take up to an hour.
How long can I rent a storage unit for?
You can rent a storage unit for as long as you need it — anywhere from a few weeks to many years. Most facilities don’t have a maximum rental limit, but they usually require a minimum of one month.
Can someone else use my unit?
You can allow someone else to use your storage unit if the facility permits sharing. However, you’ll still be responsible for paying rent and making sure the person follows the rules. If they violate one of the facility’s policies, you could be fined or have your access revoked.
What happens if I miss a payment?
When you miss a payment on a storage unit, the facility will likely charge a late fee. If you don’t make up that payment, they might lock you out of your unit. Multiple missed payments can lead to a lien, and eventually, your belongings could be sold at auction.