Self Storage

Self storage, sometimes also referred to as mini storage, is a rented storage facility. The rented space or self storage units are hired by individuals or small businesses for storing their belongings most common of which include household goods and excess inventory or archived official records. Packing as well as moving their belongings to the storage unit is the responsibility of the customers. In that sense it can also be called 'Do It Yourself' storage. However some self storage companies offer removal and packing services but charge additional fee for the same.

Standard Sizes of Self Storage Units
A variety of unit sizes are rented as self storage for different residential and business storage purposes. The standard unit sizes include
10 feet wide by 5 feet deep (10X5) – It is approximately the size of a large walk-in closet
10 feet wide by 5 feet deep (10x10) – It is about the size of a small bedroom
10 feet wide by 20 feet deep (10x20) – It is about the size of one-car garage
15 feet wide by 20 feet deep (15x20) – It is about the size of two-car garage. Sometimes it is more larger about 20x20 in size.

Security of Self Storage Units
The storage units usually do not have any window. They are walled with corrugated metal and the lock belongs mostly to the renter who alone has the accessibility to the rented storage. The units are generally accessed by opening a roll-up metal door. The self storage facilities are secured by various means including guards, surveillance cameras, door alarms and limited gate access through keypad, prox card, biometric thumbprint, hand scanners, swipe cards etc. Customers are also not allowed to store any flammable, hazardous, perishable and other non-secure items that can pose any threat to the security of the whole self storage facility. The self storage operators do not take possession, care, custody or control of the things stored in the rented units. Only when there is non payment of rents, a lien is placed on the customer's goods according to the self storage laws. The self storage facility, then, can hold a storage auction to recover its dues. However, the renters still remain responsible for any rent and fees due if the auction does not clear their balance.

Climate Controlled Self Storage
Many people who have to deal with long distance moving may have to store things for longer period of times. They can not afford to store their belongings in storage units that are not protected from humidity and temperature fluctuations. Therefore, the storage companies are increasingly providing climate controlled storage facilities. These facilities prevent mold or mildew and other moisture problems. Many valuable items like arts and antiques have to be protected from humidity and unfavorable temperatures. Relative humidity of 50% is maintained in most of the climate controlled storage facilities. The temperature of these facilities are kept in the range of 50 °F (10 °C) to 80 °F (27 °C).