Frequently Asked Questions
How to Choose a Storage Unit Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you're storing household items, a vehicle, or business inventory, we'll help you find the perfect fit. From determining the ideal unit size to understanding which features matter most, get answers to the questions customers ask most when selecting storage.
Choosing a Unit Size
From 5x5 lockers to 10x30 spaces, learn what size storage unit you need based on what you're storing.
Storage Unit Types
Compare drive-up, indoor, and extended-height units to find what works best for your needs.
Climate Control
Get answers about when to choose climate-controlled storage and which items need extra care.
Vehicle & RV Storage
Explore options for storing cars, motorcycles, boats, and RVs with both indoor and outdoor storage solutions.
Business Storage
Learn more about commercial storage options and amenities for inventory, equipment, and other items.
Choosing a Storage Unit Size
What are the typical storage unit sizes?
How big of a storage unit do I need?
Storage unit size depends on your belongings: 5x5 to 5x15 units fit one-bedroom apartments, 10x10 to 10x15 fit two-bedroom apartments, and 10x20+ accommodate multi-bedroom homes or vehicles. Compare your living space or specific items to common unit sizes ranging from small storage lockers to large 10x30 spaces.
Learn more about choosing storage unit sizes
Learn more about choosing storage unit sizes
What's the typical storage unit height?
The typical storage unit height is approximately 8 feet at Extra Space Storage facilities. Select locations offer 10-foot ceilings for larger items or reduced-height storage lockers for smaller needs.
Learn more about storage unit heights
Learn more about storage unit heights
Can I change storage unit sizes after I move in?
You can change to a different unit size if one is available that better fits your needs. The on-site staff will help you with the transition process.
Learn more about changing storage unit sizes
Learn more about changing storage unit sizes
What size storage locker do I need?
What size storage locker you need depends on your items and storage duration, with common sizes ranging from 2x2 to 4x5. These compact units have reduced height ceilings and are ideal for smaller appliances, business inventory, sports equipment, and more.
Learn more about storage locker sizes
Learn more about storage locker sizes
What size storage unit do I need for a motorcycle?
You'll need a 5x10 storage unit or larger for motorcycle storage, available with drive-up access or outdoor parking options.
Learn more about motorcycle storage unit sizes
Learn more about motorcycle storage unit sizes
Storage Unit Types
What type of storage unit do I need?
The type of storage unit depends on your items, access needs, and security preferences. Choose climate-controlled for sensitive items, drive-up for frequent access, indoor for extra security, or specialty units for vehicles and commercial needs.
Learn more about storage unit types
Learn more about storage unit types
How to choose between indoor & outdoor storage units?
Choose indoor storage with climate control for temperature-sensitive items like artwork and musical instruments. Outdoor storage works best for larger items like RVs, boats, and vehicles that need easy drive-up access.
Learn more about indoor vs outdoor storage
Learn more about indoor vs outdoor storage
What is a storage locker?
A storage locker is a compact indoor storage solution under 20 square feet (typically 4x5 or smaller) for customers who don't need a full-size unit. They're ideal for storing seasonal items, small boxes, and personal belongings. Storage lockers are often more affordable than traditional units, making them great options for any budget.
Learn more about storage lockers
Learn more about storage lockers
What is commercial storage?
Commercial storage provides secure space for businesses to store documents, supplies, equipment or business vehicles, and inventory. Extra Space Storage offers various unit sizes for small to large business needs, including warehouse storage for extensive inventory at select facilities.
Learn more about commercial storage
Learn more about commercial storage
What is mini storage?
Mini storage is another term for self storage, referring to individual rental units for personal or business use. Storage units offer secure, temporary space in various sizes with features like vehicle storage and climate control for furniture, inventory, and vehicles.
Learn more about mini storage
Learn more about mini storage
Climate-Controlled Storage
What is climate-controlled storage?
Climate-controlled storage typically maintains indoor temperatures between 55-80 degrees year-round to prevent temperature damage to sensitive items. Extra Space Storage also offers air-cooled, heated, and dehumidified units at select locations for specific climate needs.
Learn more about climate-controlled storage
Learn more about climate-controlled storage
Do I need climate-controlled storage?
Climate-controlled storage is recommended for temperature-sensitive items like documents, artwork, furniture, electronics, and antiques to prevent damage from extreme temperatures. Units typically stay between 55-80 degrees year-round, preventing cracking, warping, fading, and mold growth.
Learn more about climate-controlled storage needs
Learn more about climate-controlled storage needs
What items need climate-controlled storage?
Climate-controlled storage is recommended for electronics, artwork, antiques, paper documents, photos, media, and furniture that can be damaged by temperature extremes. These units typically maintain 55-80 degrees year-round to prevent damage caused by heat, cold, or humidity.
Learn more about items requiring climate control
Learn more about items requiring climate control
Are climate-controlled storage units worth it?
Climate-controlled storage units are worth the cost when storing temperature-sensitive items like electronics, furniture, or antiques, especially in areas with extreme weather or for long-term storage.
Learn more about climate-controlled storage value
Learn more about climate-controlled storage value
Vehicle Storage
Can you store a car in a storage unit?
Yes, many Extra Space Storage locations offer indoor vehicle storage units with drive-in access designed specifically for cars. These ground-level units protect vehicles from weather and theft while providing convenient access when needed.
Learn more about storing vehicles in storage units
Learn more about storing vehicles in storage units
Can I work on a car in a storage unit?
Storage units cannot be used as workshops and vehicles must be in working condition with current registration and insurance. Cars must be driven into units, not towed, with minimal fuel.
Learn more about working on cars in storage units
Learn more about working on cars in storage units
Can you store a motorcycle in a storage unit?
Yes, you can store motorcycles in drive-up units designated for vehicle storage, typically 5x10 or larger. Motorcycles must have working wheels, current registration and insurance, and be driven (not towed) into the unit with minimal fuel.
Learn more about storing motorcycles in storage units
Learn more about storing motorcycles in storage units
How long can you keep a car in storage?
Cars can be stored indefinitely with proper preparation and maintenance to prevent battery, tire, and fuel issues. For best results, consider climate-controlled storage and start your car every two weeks for about 15 minutes.
Learn more about how long a car can sit in storage
Learn more about how long a car can sit in storage
How long do tires last in storage?
Tires can last 5-10 years in storage when kept in a dry, dark, cool place like a climate-controlled storage unit. This protects tires from damage caused by extreme temperatures, humidity, and sun or ozone exposure.
Learn more about keeping tires safe in storage
Learn more about keeping tires safe in storage
How often should you start a car in storage?
Start your stored car every 2-4 weeks to maintain battery health and keep fluids circulating. This helps identify potential problems early whether you're using indoor or outdoor vehicle storage.
Learn more about how often you should start your car in storage
Learn more about how often you should start your car in storage
Can I store a car or motorcycle in a storage unit?
Yes, you can store a car or motorcycle at Extra Space Storage with indoor, outdoor, or covered vehicle storage options. Most cars need a 10x20 unit, while motorcycles fit in a 5x10 or larger.
Learn more about storing cars and motorcycles
Learn more about storing cars and motorcycles
What's the difference between covered, uncovered, & enclosed RV storage?
RV storage options include covered, an open-air with roof protection from rain and sun, uncovered, similar to a standard outdoor parking space, and enclosed, a garage-like bay offering maximum protection and security.
Learn more about RV storage options
Learn more about RV storage options
Do storage facilities offer RV & boat storage solutions?
Yes, Extra Space Storage offers RV, camper, and motorhome storage as well as boat storage solutions at many facilities across the U.S. Indoor, covered, and outdoor vehicle storage options can accommodate large recreational vehicles, boats, and more.
Learn more about RV and boat storage solutions
Learn more about RV and boat storage solutions
Do you allow 18-wheelers in vehicle storage?
Some Extra Space Storage facilities may allow 18-wheelers in outdoor vehicle parking spaces. Contact the facility manager to discuss available vehicle storage options.
Learn more about 18-wheeler storage
Learn more about 18-wheeler storage
Does Extra Space Storage have a vehicle wash station on-site?
No, Extra Space Storage facilities do not have RV or vehicle wash stations on-site, but we do offer vehicle storage solutions for cars, motorcycles, boats, campers, and RVs at many locations. Research self-service car washes or RV wash stations near you for cleaning before or after storage.
Learn more about vehicle wash stations
Learn more about vehicle wash stations
How much gas should I keep in a jet ski for storage?
Before storing your jet ski, either drain all the fuel or top off the tank with gasoline and fuel stabilizer to protect against deposits, varnish, or frozen water in the fuel system. Consult your owner's manual to determine the best method for your jet ski.
Learn more how much gas to keep in a jet ski for storage
Learn more how much gas to keep in a jet ski for storage
How do I disconnect an RV battery for storage?
To disconnect an RV battery for storage, use the RV's disconnect switch or manually remove cables from all batteries, including house and chassis batteries. Follow proper steps to ensure your vehicle is ready for long-term storage.
Learn more about disconnecting an RV battery for storage
Learn more about disconnecting an RV battery for storage
How do I prevent moisture damage in my RV while it's in storage?
To prevent moisture damage in your RV, repair any leaks, thoroughly dry the inside, control humidity, and conduct regular moisture checks. Excess moisture can lead to mold, delamination, rust, and electrical damage.
Learn more about preventing RV moisture damage
Learn more about preventing RV moisture damage
How do I prepare my RV for winter storage?
Preparing your RV for winter storage involves draining and adding antifreeze to water systems, inspecting and sealing the exterior, cleaning the interior thoroughly, and protecting batteries by disconnecting them and adding fuel stabilizer to a full gas tank. These winterizing steps protect your investment and ensure it's ready when spring arrives.
Learn more about preparing your RV for winter storage
Learn more about preparing your RV for winter storage
How do I prepare my motorcycle for winter storage?
Winterizing a motorcycle involves cleaning it thoroughly, changing the oil and filter, filling the gas tank with fuel stabilizer, removing or disconnecting the battery, inflating tires, and plugging the exhaust pipe. Consider storing it on a stand with a breathable cover in a climate-controlled storage unit for optimal protection.
Learn more about how to prepare your motorcycle for winter storage
Learn more about how to prepare your motorcycle for winter storage
What is the best way to store a boat during the off-season?
To store a boat for the off-season, clean it thoroughly, drain freshwater systems and add antifreeze, winterize the engine and sterndrive, fill the fuel tank with stabilizer, remove and store the battery, and use a breathable cover. Park the boat in secure indoor, covered, or outdoor storage.
Learn more about how to store a boat during the off-season
Learn more about how to store a boat during the off-season
Business Storage
Can you run a business out of a storage unit?
You cannot operate a business from a storage unit, but you can store business inventory, equipment, documents, and vehicles.
Learn more about running a business from storage units
Learn more about running a business from storage units
Can I use a storage unit as an office?
Storage units cannot be used as offices, but some Extra Space Storage locations offer separate office or retail spaces with internet and phone lines for rent. For business storage needs like inventory, documents, or equipment, we offer various unit sizes from small lockers to warehouse-sized spaces.
Learn more about using storage units as offices
Learn more about using storage units as offices
Can I rent a storage unit under my business name?
You can rent a storage unit for your business, but we require personal contact information for the individual leasing the business storage unit. We recommend having the business owner on the lease.
Learn more about renting under a business name
Learn more about renting under a business name
What are the different types of warehouse storage solutions?
Types include selective pallet racking, drive-in/drive-through racking, push-back racking, mobile shelving, cantilever racking, and automated storage systems. Each optimizes space differently based on item size and access frequency needs.
Learn more about warehouse storage solutions
Learn more about warehouse storage solutions
What's the best way to keep track of inventory for small businesses in a storage unit?
Create a detailed inventory list or use management software to track product numbers, locations, and restocking needs. Label boxes clearly, group similar items together, and maintain an updated unit map as items move in and out.
Learn more about tracking business inventory in storage
Learn more about tracking business inventory in storage
Can't find what you need? Check out our other covered topics:
Self Storage
