If you are thinking about getting a self-storage unit for your stuff, chances are you are wondering how you can make sure you get a good deal.
Storage unit prices can vary widely depending on where you live, ranging as low as $22.54 a month for a 5×5 unit on average in Montgomery, AL to more than $105.17 a month for a 5×5 unit in San Francisco, CA. But no matter where you live, there are a few tips and tricks that you can use to shave some of the cost off your monthly bill.
Average Unit Price in Montgomery, AL
| Unit Size | Average Price | Lowest Price |
|---|---|---|
| 5 x 5 | $22.54 | |
| 5 x 10 | $27.02 | |
| 10 x 10 | $39.87 | |
| 10 x 15 | $82.89 | |
| 10 x 20 | $67.34 |
Average Unit Price in San Francisco, CA
| Unit Size | Average Price | Lowest Price |
|---|---|---|
| 5 x 5 | $105.17 | |
| 5 x 10 | $154.38 | |
| 10 x 10 | $278.21 | |
| 10 x 15 | $388.95 | |
| 10 x 20 | Not Available | Not Available |
Average pricing data provided by SpareFoot.com
1. Shop Around for Discount Storage Units
Research multiple storage facilities in your area to compare prices. Use online platforms and directories or contact storage companies directly to inquire about rates and any ongoing promotions.
Our online marketplace lists all the storage facilities near you, shows you their prices, deals, amenities and customer reviews — all of the things that you care about to make a good decision on storage — and lets you compare them side by side. Comparing prices online allows you to save time and be confident you are getting the best price available for the unit you need.
Find new construction
If you’re trying to find the lowest price, look to rent at newly built storage facilities.
Because they’re new and have lower occupancy, they could be running storage deals to get more people in the door. Chances are you may be able to find a lower price at these new “lease up” facilities compared to ones that already have an established customer base.
Choose the right size unit
The number one culprit of overpaying for storage is getting the wrong size storage unit. If you rent too big of a unit, you are paying for space you don’t need. If you rent too small of a unit, you may end up having to rent a second unit.
The most popular unit size is a 10′ x 10′ unit, which is about the same size as a one-car garage and can hold the contents of two bedrooms. But, make sure you do your research before committing to a unit by checking out our guide for choosing the right size storage unit.
Choose amenities wisely
Chances are, the more amenities your unit has, the higher your monthly rent will be. Climate control alone will raise your rent by 20-50%. Cut down on cost by picking a unit that accommodates your exact needs, and nothing more.
2. Look for Special Storage Deals and Promotions
Some storage companies have special storage offers for renting online instead of going to the store first. Others may offer the first month free.
- Our marketplace: Find storage facilities near you offering the first month free by searching your zip code and reserve a unit. If you can’t find a facility offering the first month’s rent free, there are many other offers and discounts frequently available and clearly marked when searching.
Note: It pays to peek at storage facility websites or sign up for their emails. They may offer discounts for new customers, seasonal promotions or referral bonuses.
3. Consider Off-Peak Seasons
In the storage industry, the off-peak or “slow season” is categorized as the fall and winter months. You’ll likely find better storage deals and promotions if you’re renting during this time compared to the busy summer months when every college student and mover is vying for storage space.
4. Opt for Longer Rental Terms to Get Storage Discounts
It’s pretty common for storage facilities to lower their prices for customers who sign up for six months or a year. They get a guaranteed customer for a longer period, and you get a break on your monthly bill.
This is a great way to save if you’re in the middle of a big move, doing some extended traveling or remodeling your home. Just do a little math first to make sure the savings are worth the commitment.
5. Use Online Coupons and Promo Codes
The hunt for discounts isn’t just in-store anymore; it’s online too. Websites like Groupon and RetailMeNot are hot spots for deals on pretty much everything, including storage units. A quick search before you book can land you a hefty discount.
Pro Tip: Make sure any coupon or code you snag is still good to go and right for the storage place you’ve picked.
6. Negotiate Self-Storage Deals
You might not realize it, but there’s often some wiggle room on storage unit prices. Found a better rate somewhere else? Bring that up to the manager of the facility you’re eyeing. They usually have some flexibility, especially if it means either snagging a new client or keeping an old one happy. Odds are, they’ll either match that lower rate you found or maybe even undercut it.
Pro Tip: Be polite but firm and arm yourself with all the details of the competitor’s offer when you go in to negotiate. It shows you’ve done your research and you mean business.
7. Consider Alternative Storage Options
Traditional self-storage isn’t the only game in town. If building sheds or revamping your attic or basement are not viable options, you can always resort to portable storage containers or valet storage.
Portable containers, for instance, get delivered right to your doorstep and you fill them up at your own pace. When done, they’re whisked away to be stored securely. It’s a good call if you’re juggling a move or renovation and need the extra convenience. Plus, this flexible alternative is often gentler on your budget.
Got fewer items to store? Valet storage (or full-service storage) can be the way to go, as you pay only for the space you use — it’s like a mini storage discount. What’s more, Clutter offers free first pickup and final delivery if you need to store your items for at least four months. They will also wrap your items free of charge and store them in a climate-controlled storage facility.
8. Check for Military or Student Discounts
Many storage facilities offer discounts for military, college students, seniors and organizations. Be sure to take advantage of these deals, you might save 10-15% percent on monthly rent.
Note that most offers do not require self-storage coupons or promo codes. They either automatically apply, or you simply have to ask at the facility.
Below are some of the best self-storage discounts available at storage facilities across the country:
Military self-storage discounts
- Certain storage units offer a military discount for active-duty personnel. Just show your ID when you move in.
Student self-storage discounts
- The same goes with discounts to current college students. ID required.
Senior citizen self-storage discounts
- If you are looking for storage units with senior discounts, check with individual self-storage facilities in your area.
Organizational self-storage discounts
- If you are an AAA or AARP member looking for self-storage discounts you might have to ask around. For example, Acorn Mini Storage facilities in Minnesota offer AARP storage unit discounts of 5 percent and AAA storage unit discounts of 10 percent with a six-month prepayment.
9. Bundle Services
Sometimes, you can save money by getting storage in a bundle. For example, look for facilities that offer storage and a moving truck. Some may also toss in packing supplies or even insurance with your storage rental.
And, if you don’t want to rent a truck, you once again have the option of valet or full-service storage. No need to worry about renting and driving a truck or hiring moving labor with this option, plus you get your valuable time back. And time is money.
10. Share a Storage Unit
Why shoulder the whole cost of a storage unit when your needs are on the lighter side? Pooling resources with a buddy, family or the folks next door to split a storage unit can be a smart financial move, particularly in places where costs run high. The approach is simple: divide the rent and enjoy the savings.
Now, for the straight talk: Sharing does come with its set of challenges. When you co-rent, balancing responsibilities and making sure everyone agrees on payment and how the space is used is vital. Agree on what will be stored and maintain mutual respect for the shared area.
Discount Storage Units At Your Fingertips
As you can see, beyond promotional storage unit deals, there are a few smart ways to shop for storage that can save you money. In the end, finding a deal on storage is about being savvy, doing your research and not being afraid to ask for a better price.
Whether it’s through seasonal deals, special discounts or simply sharing the load, the opportunities to cut costs are out there. Plus, you can always compare prices and amenities on SpareFoot to make sure you get the best possible price.
