How Can I Get a Discount on Self Storage Units?

Written by: StorageUnits.com Editorial Team - Updated: Oct 31, 2024

Buying extra storage can get expensive. Larger units might cost hundreds of dollars each month, especially if you need state-of-the-art security and climate control. But paying less is possible if you do some research before you sign on the dotted line — in this guide, we’ll take you through a dozen particularly helpful tips for finding inexpensive self-storage options in your area.

1. Choose the Smallest Suitable Unit

Size is usually the most significant factor in self-storage unit pricing. The larger the unit, the more it costs to rent it. To maximize space, think in cubic feet and use stackable containers to pile belongings up to the ceiling.

Use the table below to discover what fits in standard-size storage units and determine how much space you’ll need.

Storage Unit Size	What You Can Fit In The Unit
5′x5′	This 25-square-foot unit is ideal for seasonal items, small furniture, or a few boxes.
5′x10′	This 50-square-foot unit is equivalent to a large walk-in closet and can fit a mattress set, sofa, and many boxes.
10′x10′	A 100-square-foot storage unit can fit the entire contents of a one-bedroom apartment.
10′x15′	This 150-square-foot unit can accommodate all the furnishings from a small house or two-bedroom apartment.
10′x20′	This unit can accommodate everything from a standard two to three-bedroom house or apartment.
10’x30′	This 300-square-foot storage unit accommodates a four to five-bedroom house and all appliances.

2. Minimize the Amenities

Consider local temperatures to determine if climate control is necessary to protect your belongings. If you rent short-term storage during mild-weather months, there’s likely no need to pay extra for heat or air conditioning.

3. Be Flexible About Location

The location of a storage unit can significantly impact the cost. If you don’t need regular access to the contents, explore lower-cost units away from heavily populated areas.

4. Choose an Above-Ground Unit

Drive-up access often comes with premium pricing. If you’re willing to deal with an elevator or flight of stairs, opt for an above-ground storage unit to save money.

5. Work Within Office Hours

Units with limited office hours often cost much less than those with around-the-clock attendants. If you plan to store items of limited value, consider choosing a facility with restricted hours to cut costs.

6. Cut Back on Security Amenities

Storage units with amenities such as reinforced steel fencing and 24/7 video monitoring can be costly. If you’re storing low-value items, opt for a facility with basic security features to reduce monthly fees. For valuable items, compare the cost of high-security units to that of a strong self-storage insurance policy. If you are paying to insure the contents of your unit, you may not need a state-of-the-art security system.

7. Pay For the Entire Term Upfront

When you pay for your entire rental term upfront, many storage facilities offer one month free or discounted monthly rates. By paying in advance, you also avoid the risk of a missed payment and foreclosure that could put your unit up for auction.

8. Rent for an Extended Term

Ask about extended-term rates when signing up for your storage unit. Year-round renters often receive rolling discounts or free months.

9. Ask About Available Discounts

Student, senior, and military discounts are often available at self-storage providers, with some offering as much as 15% off the cost of their units. Some employers may also have promotional rates negotiated with a local storage facility. Check with your employer or school to see what might be available.

10. Take Advantage of Referral Programs

Self-storage providers typically offer discounts to existing customers who successfully refer new customers to their business. If you know anyone searching for a storage unit, use these referral programs.

11. Look for Service Bundles

Some storage facilities maintain their own fleet of moving trucks and provide new renters free access to these vehicles. Look for storage bundles to deduct the cost of a moving truck from your total expenses.

12. Compare Prices From Nearby Facilities

Compare prices from local storage facilities to find the most affordable option in your area. Expand your search to include more distant units and sort the results from low to high. Facilities specializing in unusual sizes may have more affordable units than one specializing in larger units or lockers.

Available Storage Discounts

Many facilities offer promotions, discounts, and referral programs that can help you save on storage costs. Below, you’ll find links to the discounts available at five of the country’s top self-storage providers:

Public Storage: New customers can save up to 50% on monthly rent at Public Storage.
U-Haul: Your first month of self-storage is free at select U-Haul locations.
SpareFoot: SpareFoot offers new renters one month of free storage, along with military, student, and senior discounts.
Extra Space Storage: Depending on the location, you may be able to get the first month free or half-off at Extra Space Storage. Storage discounts are also available for college students and military personnel.
CubeSmart: New renters can get their first month free and save up to 50% on monthly rates at CubeSmart.