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FAQs

You’ll find the answers to many of the most common questions we’re asked about self storage below. Have a question that isn't here? Please feel free to call us at 1-888-977-8672.

Facility, Space And Units, Oh My!

 

What types of storage do you offer?

If you're relocating, renovating or reorganizing we have personal storage units available so you can easily store furniture, outdoor toys (bikes, snowboards, kayaks, etc) or seasonal lawn and garden equipment. We also offer business storage units, college student storage units, and vehicle storage units. 

What are your unit sizes?

Our storage sizes range from approximately 5'x5' to 10’x20.’ We also offer extra large units at certain locations. Please use the chart below to determine the right amount of space for you. Still unsure? You can always contact your nearest location for help!

  • 5x5 – Like a hall closet or half bathroom. You can fit small furniture, chests of drawers, small mattress sets, boxes
  • 5x10 – Like a walk-in closet. You can fit studio apt. or small bedroom furnishings, mattress set, dining room
  • 5x15 – Like a large walk-in closet. You can fit 1 bedroom apt. furnishings, desk, patio furniture, washer and dryer stacked
  • 10x10 – Like a small bedroom. You can fit 1-2 bedroom apt. furnishings, refrigerator, large appliances, canoes, sofas
  • 10x15 – Like a small office. You can fit 1-2 desks, cabinets, large printers, chairs, sofas
  • 10x20 – Like a large bedroom. You can fit 1-2 bedroom home furnishings, refrigerator, large appliances, canoes, sofas
  • 10x30 – Like a living room. You can fit 2-3 bedroom home furnishings, refrigerator, large appliances, canoes, sofas, bedroom sets, dressers

What happens if I need more or less space after I move in?

This is more common that your probably think! If this happens to you, simply contact the property manager so they can check availability of other sizes in the facility. If the size you want to change to is available, they will assist you in the transition.

Do you have climate-controlled units?

Yes. Many of our locations offer climate-controlled storage units that maintain a set temperature range to protect your belongings from the extremes of cold, heat and humidity. Climate-controlled units are definitely the way to go when you need to store electronics, photos, artwork, or other family goods that may be affected by extreme temperatures.

Should I get an outdoor or indoor unit?

Many of our locations offer both outdoor and indoor storage units to suit your preference. If you are storing large or heavy items such as furniture, it may be easier to drive up to an outdoor storage unit. If you choose an indoor storage unit, you’ll enjoy large freight elevators and wide, well-lit hallways. We also have moving carts available in most locations that offer indoor storage units.

Do you have dollies or moving carts available?

Dollies or moving carts are quite helpful – they’re also available in most of our locations that have indoor storage. If you have an indoor unit and need to use one, just let your property manager know.

I need storage supplies. What supplies do you offer?

To make your move easier, our rental offices have storage supplies of all types – from boxes to bubble wrap to heavy duty locks. It's The Smarter Way To Pack®. Check out what moving supplies we sell at our stores!

Are the doors big enough?

Our storage units use roll-up doors. These are very similar to garage doors and are almost the width of the storage space. They’re also easy to use – just slide a latch and lift the door upward to open. You won't need to worry about door swing getting in the way!

I need to access my storage unit at off times. When can I access my unit?

You can always access your storage unit during the gate hours with your assigned gate code. The gate hours are posted online and at the storage facility. If you need additional assistance, please visit during office hours (also posted online and at your facility) and your property manager will be happy to help.

Do the storage units have electrical outlets?

For safety reasons, we do not install electrical outlets in our storage units.

Do you rent office space?

We do have office space to rent in select locations. For a list of the SmartStop® properties with office space for rent, please visit our Office Space page.

 

Do you offer RV/Boat/Car/Motorcycle parking?

Yes. We do offer secure vehicle and boat storage at some storage facilities. Please check with the storage facility nearest you.

What kind of security features do you offer at your storage properties?

We're committed to keeping your belongings safe! In addition to passive security features like iron fences and well-lit areas, we have surveillance cameras and keypad entry to provide a secure, stress-free storage experience in many locations. Assigned key codes only allow our storage unit tenants access to the facility. Our indoor storage properties also have building intruder alarms. Certain properties also have individual unit door alarms to add another layer of security.

What items are prohibited in a self storage unit?

You may not store any items that are explosive, flammable, odorous, hazardous, corrosive or perishable. These items can include food, drinks, fireworks, propane tanks, chemicals, etc. If you think you have an item that you are unsure about, please contact your site manager for clarification. We also require that your stored items not have a total value over $5,000. If you're storing valuables worth more than this, please obtain written permission from the property manager.

Reserving A Unit And Moving In

 

How do I reserve storage?

The fastest and easiest way to reserve a storage unit is to do it online, which also gives you additional sales promotions. If calling is more convenient for you, simply call us at 888-97-STORAGE. But remember, some of our best deals are online only!

How far in advance can I make a storage reservation?

You can make online reservations 7 days in advance. If you want to make reservations up to 30 days in advance, call your nearest storage facility and ask for the property manager.

I changed my mind. How do I cancel a reservation?

We're sorry to hear you won't be storing with us! But we understand the timing probably wasn't right. To cancel your reservation, contact your property manager by phone or in person. This ensures that YOU are cancelling the reservation and not someone who wasn't authorized.

Do I have to sign a long-term storage contract?

No! We understand some people have commitment issues, which is why all self storage rentals are done on a month-to-month basis. You can even pay your monthly rent online.

Does the unit come with a lock?

Locks are available for purchase at any SmartStop® Self Storage facility. The disk lock is recommended for the highest level of security. If you already have one, you should remember to bring it on move-in day.

It's time for me to move out. What do I need to do?

We're sorry to see you go! Here's what you need to do. We require at least 10 days written or verbal notice to the property manager or call center support team. Make sure everything has been moved out of your storage unit before your scheduled move-out date and the lock has been removed. Once the property manager has inspected the unit, it will be officially vacant. Please keep us in mind the next time you need self storage unit!

Managing My Account

 

How do I set up my SmartStop® Self Storage profile?

Creating an online account with us is easy! Start by clicking on the My Account dropdown on our website’s top menu and then select Create Account. Complete all required fields, including your Storage Account Number. Once all fields are complete, click the Create Account button.

How do I change my email address in my SmartStop® Self Storage profile account?

Login to your self storage unit account. Once you are signed in, click on the Edit link within the Contact Info section (under Account Info tab). Replace your current email address with a new email address and click the Save button.

How do I change my password in my SmartStop® Self Storage profile?

Login to your self storage unit account. Once you are signed in, click on the Edit link within the Password section (under Account Info tab). Enter your old password, and then choose a new password and verify it. Click the Save button.

I am renting more than one storage unit, how do I pay for multiple units?

Login to your self storage unit account. Once you are signed in, click on the Storage tab, and then click on the Pay All Units button. You can also pay individually by clicking on the Make Payment button for each unit.

How do I change my address online?

Login to your self storage unit account. Once you are signed in, click on the Edit link within the Billing Address section (under Account Info tab). Enter your new address information and click the Add New Address button. Please note that billing information added or changed here is only used for billing purposes and will not be changed on your lease. Please call us to change anything regarding your lease agreement and address.

Do you offer an e-bill or payment reminder service?

We are currently developing this service to help our customers stay on track. You'll be the first to know when it's available. However, monthly invoicing is an option. Please speak to your store manager to be setup to receive those emails.

Can I set up automatic payments for my account?

Yes. The best way to set that up is to get an automatic payment form from your property manager. Follow the directions on the form and submit it back to your property manager.

I'm having difficulties logging in through your website. What should I do?

  1. First, make sure you have your CAPS LOCK turned off. That crazy key often causes mischief!
  2. Also, make sure your access to the internet hasn't been interrupted. Do other websites you normally visit load in your browser?
  3. Other possibilities could be that your computer may not be accepting cookies. Make sure that your browser allows cookies (turned on).
  4. A final suggestion is to upgrade your browser to the latest version. We suggest using Google Chrome or Firefox for best website functionality.

Still having issues? Please contact us and let us know what you're experiencing. We may not be able to fix it right away, but we'll make sure it gets fixed.

Can I pay using my mobile phone?

Yes of course! Just go to smartstopselfstorage.com from your mobile phone and tap on the dropdown bar, then select My Account. Once you’re signed in, click on the Storage tab, and then click the Make Payment button. By the way, you can also rent a storage unit from your mobile phone as well.

How do I pay my monthly rent?

Paying online is actually preferred. Login to your self storage unit account to access this feature. Payment can also be made over the phone, but there is an $10 convenience fee we charge. Phone payments can be made by debit or credit card. We accept MasterCard, Visa, Discover or American Express. Our store managers can always process your payment in-store as well. In person, we take cash, check, and debit or credit cards. There is no fee to pay at the store.

What happens when my rent payment is late?

Your monthly rent is due the first of each month. We have a five day grace period before charging a late fee. On the 6th day, your account will be delinquent, and the late fee will be assessed. Late fees cannot be waived and the full balance must be paid immediately to avoid foreclosure. Partial payments are not accepted, and payment plans are not available. Delinquent accounts may result in denied access to your unit, revoked gate code access and your unit will be over-locked. The late fees vary according to state laws; contact your property manager for more details.

If my account goes delinquent, will my belongings go to auction?

Property managers will generally try to contact any tenant with a delinquent account before steps are taken toward an auction. As a tenant, you are responsible for maintaining current and accurate contact information so we can keep communication open. Paying your bill on time is also your responsibility.

If we cannot contact you, or if payment cannot be resolved, auction proceedings may be next. The length of time for a delinquent account to be placed in auction varies by state law. We recommend that you contact the property manager as soon as possible if your payment is late. We will provide written notice to your email address or physical address listed on your account when required by law.

What happens if my belongings go to auction?

Once the unit is sold at auction, the proceeds are applied to your outstanding balance. If the proceeds are higher than the amount due, a check for the difference will be sent to the original person leasing the storage unit. If the proceeds are lower than the outstanding balance the account will be sent to collections.

Storage Unit Pricing

 

How can I find out the price for a self storage unit rental?

Rental unit pricing can be found online. Our monthly rates vary by facility, unit size, and features such as climate-controlled, indoor or outdoor units, etc. Getting started is easy. Click on Find Storage in the main navigation of our website and find the location you're interested in.

Do you have any specials on self storage unit rentals?

You’re in luck! Our Online Special is currently running and can be found on our home page. We also have seasonal specials periodically, so check back often and snag them before they're gone! These limited specials are first-come, first-serve.

Is my initial monthly storage unit rent guaranteed for as long as I rent my storage unit?

SmartStop® Self Storage is committed to offering great units at reasonable prices to our customers. But sometimes it’s necessary to make adjustments to rental rates to keep everything running smoothly. With this in mind, your original monthly rate is not guaranteed for the life of your rental.

Protect My Belongings

 

How much does self storage property protection cost?

Some facilities provide property protection, and you should check with the property manager for more information. Your personal insurance provider should also be able to provide options. It is possible that your homeowner's insurance already covers your belongings.

How much property protection do I need?

The amount of coverage you need depends on what you will be storing in the unit. One way to estimate the value of what you will be storing is the cost of replacing something if it becomes damaged.

How do I cancel the property protection policy?

Our property managers are ready to assist you in any way, including cancelling your property protection policy (if it was purchased through us). If your insurance was through your personal insurance provider, please contact them directly.

Online Auctions

 

When and where are your storage auctions?

Our storage auctions are conducted online! You don't have to worry about going to a location to bid on great items. Just visit our Self Storage Auctions page.

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