Self Storage Units and Storage Facilities – Frequently Asked Questions

What Does The Term "On-Site Manager" Stand For?

In a nutshell, this term is used to describe an employee (who usually works as the store manager) who also has an apartment on site, as a part of the storage facility.

What Are Roll-up Doors?

Just as the name implies, these doors involve sliding a latch and then simply lifting the door, just like you would a regular garage door. This is the most common type of door in the self-storage industry, as they are very space-effective.

What Are Office Hours? And Gate Hours?

The office hours refers to the time when a store manager is working at the property. During these hours, you will be assisted by the store manager who will supervise you while you move or pack supplies. On the other hand, gate hours refer to the hours when the unit can be accessed - if you need access outside the gate hours, you must ask your store manager for more information on 24-hour access.

What Does The Climate Control Involve?

Basically, this is a system that aims to control the temperature in a storage facility, in order to protect the stored goods. They can range from extremely low temperatures to very high temperatures, based on the needs of the belongings stored inside the self-storage facilities.

Outdoor Units Versus Drive-up And Indoor Units

While the drive-up units allow you to drive the vehicle right in front of the unit door (thus facilitating the loading and the unloading process), the indoor units are inside the building and they are less convenient than the outdoor units, since tenants have to move their belongings manually.

How To Determine The Correct Size For The Self-Storage Unit?

Determining the exact size can be a daunting task, but you can approximate the right size by analyzing the items you plan to store.

For example, a 5' X 5' storage unit has a surface of around 25 square feet, enough to hold small to medium boxes along with a dresser and a small mattress set. This storage unit is perfect for sports equipment and gardening tools, as well as Christmas decorations;

A 5' X 10' storage unit, on the other hand, is twice as big as the above-mentioned unit and it is large enough to store medium to large boxes, a queen-size bed, a television, a dresser and even the furnishings of a medium-sized bedroom;

10' X 10' units, on the other hand, measure around 100 sq feet and they can hold two full bedrooms along with several medium boxes;

10' X 15' units measure around 150 sq feet and they can hold up to three medium bedrooms - they are suitable for couches, tables, pianos and other large items that need to be stored in a safe and secure unit;

10' X 20' units measure no less than 200 square feet, which means that they can hold oversized couches, refrigerators, large wardrobe boxes, dining room sets and such;

10' X 30' - this is the largest unit and it is perfect for multi-bedroom houses, as it can hold a variety of large boxes and oversized items for living room or bedroom.

Do I have To Sign A Lease To Get A Storage Unit?

Generally speaking no, they do not require a long-term commitment as most companies charge rent on a month-to-month basis.

Are My Goods Stored In A Secure Place?

Our storage facilities have high-security systems including electronic gates, high-security fences as well as video monitoring systems. Moreover, the facilities are properly lit, and some of them even come with personal locks on the self-storage unit and individual door alarms. Contact the facility manager for more information regarding the safety of your belongings.

Is Self Storage Insurance A Must?

Despite the fact that most companies recommend tenants get this type of insurance just to prevent unpleasant situations, it is entirely up to you to decide whether you get one or not - however, they are not included in the rental fee you pay on a monthly basis for self-storage. You can ask the facility manager for more information and recommendations, as most companies have contracts with insurance groups and agencies that allow you to get a policy at affordable prices, included in your monthly rent.

Do I Have To Come With My own Lock?

It is highly recommended to bring your own lock, as most companies usually do not provide a lock. Nonetheless, many self-storage facilities have a wealth of locks and security systems available for sale.

Is There Any Paperwork Involved? If so, What Documents Do I Need?

Renting a storage unit is as simple as making a hotel reservation - all you need is a document for state identification, like your passport or your ID. In some cases, finger printing may be required to complete the rental, although this is not a general rule - make sure you check with your storage unit company to find out all the documents you need to complete the rental!