What are 24-Hour Storage Units?
As the name suggests, a 24-hour storage unit is a unit that’s easily accessible irrespective of the time of the day. If you’re looking to access your stored items in the evening, at night, or on weekends, a 24-hour storage unit is your go-to-go option for your storage needs.
Storage companies offering 24-hour access units usually provide access or identification options that go beyond the regular key and lock. Some facilities require you to enter a PIN code or swipe a card to pass through a locked checkpoint. Others ask you to verify your identity to a guard at the gate to get access.
The level of security accorded to 24-hour storage units varies depending on the facility. While almost all facilities have 24-hour surveillance cameras, some employ security personnel to man those cameras and guard the premises. In other facilities, customers have to be escorted by a staff member when accessing their storage unit during off-hours.
Benefits of Renting a 24-Hour Storage Unit
There are multiple benefits of renting a storage unit that’s open all day. These include:
24-Hour Access to Storage
Perhaps you’re employed full-time and only have the evening or weekend to take your things to the facility. A 24-hour storage unit is accessible when you need it. This also comes in handy when your things are already in the unit, and you need to get an item.
Great Flexibility
Maybe your house got severely damaged by a storm, and you need to take some of your furniture and appliances to the facility to allow home renovations. When urgent storage needs happen, it’s always nice to know you can access a storage unit without having to wait.
Multiple Unit Size Options
You can choose from various unit sizes, including 5’ x 5’, 10’ x 10’, 10’ x 15’, and 10’ x 30’. The size or amount of your belongings will determine the right storage unit size for you. You can also rent outdoor parking spaces for your car or boat.
Climate-Controlled Units Available
If your items can be damaged by extreme temperatures or humidity, you don’t need to worry as 24-hour storage facilities provide climate-controlled units. These units maintain a constant temperature to prevent any damage to your items.
Top 5 Storage Companies for 24-Hour Access
Here are some of the best storage companies when you need 24-hour storage units:
CubeSmart
With over 800 facilities across the US, CubeSmart is one of the best storage companies in the market. Its self-storage units are 24-hour accessible, meaning you’ll always have your items on hand.
Also, to ensure your items are safe while at the facility, CubeSmart has invested in various security systems, including electronically gated access and 24-hour video surveillance cameras. There are also on-site managers at select storage facilities.
Pros
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- Climate-controlled storage options
- Clean and well-lit premises
- Free storage for the first 30 days
- Flexible month-to-month lease terms
- Online payment options available
Cons
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- Extra fee for 24-hour access
- No guarantee of pest protection
Extra Space Storage
Extra Space Storage is another moving company committed to providing 24-hour self-storage units. With over 1500 locations across the U.S., it serves both residential and commercial customers, and you can benefit from climate-controlled options.
For the security of your stored items, the storage centers are equipped with video surveillance cameras as well as personalized security codes for entry points and access gates.
Pros
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- Clean, updated, and well-lit facilities
- Facilities are treated for pest control
- Discounts available for online booking
- Offers a size guide on its website to help you determine the right unit size
Cons
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- Extra fee for 24-hour access
- Storage facilities only available in 38 states of America
Life Storage
Formerly known as Uncle Bob’s Self Storage, Life Storage is best known for exemplary customer service. And while you may be limited a bit in terms of facility locations (Life Storage has about 1,050 facilities distributed in over 35 states), chances are there is a facility near you.
Life Storage 24-hour storage solutions also include climate-controlled storage options, wine storage, outdoor drive-up storage, moving truck rentals, and outdoor parking spaces for cars, boats, RVs, motorcycles, etc.
To ensure your stored belongings are safe and secure, all Life Storage facilities have 24-hour running surveillance cameras and recording equipment. You’ll also require a personalized access code to get to your unit.
Pros
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- No fee for access
- Top-notch customer service
- Moving truck rental options available
Cons
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- Cost more than its competitors
- Limited locations
Public Storage
Public Storage has probably the widest nationwide network, with thousands of locations across the United States. It also offers a wide range of storage units of different sizes, meaning there’s something for you irrespective of what you want to store.
On top of that, the company offers walk-up, drive-up, and elevator access in most of its storage facilities. Climate-controlled units are also available for those who want.
Pros
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- Multiple storage locations
- A rent of just $1 for the first month
- Free reservations Variety of unit sizes
Cons
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- No guaranteed video surveillance protection
- Pest protection is not guaranteed
U-Haul
U-Haul is a full-service moving and storage company with a wide range of services, including self-storage, truck and trailer rentals, moving supplies, and moving labor.
When it comes to storage, their services include commercial & business storage, vehicle storage, outdoor/drive-up storage, and climate-controlled storage. There is also a wide variety of unit sizes.
And for the protection of your valuables, U-Haul has invested in security cameras, individually alarmed rooms, electronic access points, intercom systems, and fire sprinklers.
Pros
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- Most locations offer 24-hour access
- First month free with any 1-way truck or trailer rental
- Nationwide availability
Cons
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- Different U-Haul locations offer different features
Factors Affecting Prices of 24-Hour Storage Units
The price to pay for a storage unit will vary depending on various factors. These include:
Size of Unit
Larger units typically cost more than the smaller ones
Location of Facility
In most cases, the storage facilities in major towns and cities cost more than those in rural areas. Also, those facilities within the city center will cost more than those on the outskirts of town.
Location of the Storage Unit
Most customers prefer to rent interior units, units near the elevator, and units on the first floor. As a result, these units may cost more than the other ones.
Level of Storage Demand
A storage facility in an area with high storage demands is likely to charge more than a facility in an area with low demand.
Simply enter your address or zip code, NearbyMovers will show you a list of 24-hour storage companies around you with a free estimation.
How to Evaluate 24-Hour Storage Near Me
Generally, the first thing to consider when renting a 24-hour storage unit is whether the company offers around-the-clock accessibility. But that’s not the only parameter to consider. Here are other critical factors to keep in mind:
Pricing
Before renting a storage unit, ensure it is within your budget. You don’t want to pick a unit that’s too costly, as that means you’ll be overspending on storage.
Security Level
You may be storing valuable items in terms of pricing or sentimental value. As such, you should only work with a storage company that is committed to keeping your things safe and secure. Reputable storage companies have various security systems, such as surveillance cameras, entry checkpoints, and security guards.
Climate-controlled Options
If you’re storing valuable items or things that could be damaged by temperature fluctuations, a climate-controlled unit is a must-have. However, these units often come with additional costs, so you may choose to avoid them if your items aren’t at risk of damage.
Size of Units
Many storage companies have various unit sizes to accommodate different items. But it helps to confirm in advance to avoid last-minute disappointments.