What Extra Space Storage Is

Extra Space Storage is a self-storage company that rents climate-controlled and standard storage units by the month. You rent a unit, move your belongings in yourself, and keep the key or access card. The company handles the facility, security, and maintenance — you decide what stays inside and for how long. Units range from small closet-sized spaces to large rooms that fit the contents of a house.

Extra Space Storage operates hundreds of locations across the United States. You find a facility near you, tour the unit, sign a rental agreement, and start paying monthly. There is no long-term contract required — you can rent for one month or several years, and you can end the rental by giving notice and removing your items.

Key Takeaways

  • Extra Space Storage charges a monthly rental fee that varies by location, unit size, and whether you choose climate control.
  • You move your own belongings into the unit and keep your key or access card; the company does not pack, move, or inventory your items.
  • Most locations offer 24-hour gate access so you can retrieve items whenever you need them.
  • Climate-controlled units cost more than standard units but protect items from heat, cold, and humidity damage.
  • You can cancel your rental at any time by removing your belongings and giving notice, though some facilities require 30 days' notice.

How Monthly Rent and Fees Work

Extra Space Storage charges a monthly rental fee based on three main factors: the size of the unit, the location of the facility, and whether the unit is climate-controlled. A small 5-by-5-foot unit in a rural area costs far less than a large 10-by-20-foot climate-controlled unit in a city. The company publishes rates on its website for each facility, and rates vary significantly between locations.

Beyond the monthly rent, you may encounter additional fees. A deposit (usually equal to one month's rent) is required upfront at most locations. Some facilities charge an administrative or processing fee when you open the account. If you pay late, a late fee applies. Climate-controlled units have a higher monthly rate than standard units at the same location. You can see the full fee structure before you sign the agreement.

The first month's rent and deposit are due before you receive your key. After that, rent is due on the same date each month. You can pay online, by phone, or in person at the facility office. If you stop paying, the company will eventually place a lien on your stored items and may sell them to recover unpaid rent — this process is called a lien sale and is governed by state law.

Climate-Controlled Versus Standard Units

A standard unit is an outdoor or indoor space with no temperature or humidity control. It stays as warm or cold as the outside air. Standard units are cheaper but expose your belongings to heat, cold, moisture, and dust. Items like wood furniture, electronics, photographs, and documents can warp, rust, or fade in a standard unit over time.

A climate-controlled unit maintains a steady temperature (usually between 55 and 85 degrees) and controls humidity. These units cost 30 to 50 percent more per month than standard units but protect sensitive items. If you are storing antiques, musical instruments, artwork, leather goods, or anything that could be damaged by temperature swings, climate control is worth the extra cost.

Extra Space Storage offers both types at most locations. You choose which one fits your needs and budget when you rent. You cannot switch from standard to climate-controlled mid-lease without signing a new agreement and paying the difference in rent.

Access, Security, and What You Can Store

Most Extra Space Storage facilities offer 24-hour gate access, meaning you can enter the property and reach your unit at any time of day or night using your key or access card. Some locations have staffed offices with limited hours, but the gate itself stays open. This is useful if you need to retrieve something at an odd hour or make frequent trips to your unit.

Security features vary by location but typically include perimeter fencing, security cameras, and gated entry. Some facilities have on-site managers or security patrols. You are responsible for locking your unit door. The company is not liable for theft, damage, or loss of your items unless caused by the facility's negligence — this is spelled out in the rental agreement. You can purchase renters insurance through the company or through your own insurance provider to cover your stored belongings.

Extra Space Storage allows most household items, but prohibits hazardous materials (gasoline, paint, propane), perishable food, plants, animals, and illegal items. You cannot run a business from the unit or use it as living space. The company reserves the right to inspect units if there is reason to suspect a violation, though this is rare in practice.

How to Rent a Unit and Move In

Start by visiting the Extra Space Storage website or calling a local facility to check availability and pricing. You can view photos of units and read reviews. Once you find a location and size that works, you can reserve the unit online or in person. A reservation typically holds the unit for a short time (often 24 to 48 hours) while you complete the rental agreement.

When you are ready to rent, you will need a valid government-issued ID and a credit card or bank account for payment. The facility will ask for your name, address, phone number, and email. You sign the rental agreement, which outlines the terms, fees, and rules. You then pay the first month's rent and deposit, receive your key or access card, and can begin moving in when ready.

The company does not provide moving services, boxes, or packing materials. You arrange and pay for your own move. Some people hire a moving company; others rent a truck and move themselves. Once your items are inside, you lock the door and keep the key find. You are responsible for maintaining the unit and keeping the door locked.

Ending Your Rental and Retrieving Your Items

To end your rental, you must remove all your belongings and return your key or access card to the facility. Most locations require you to give 30 days' notice before your move-out date, though some allow shorter notice. You can provide notice in person, by phone, or online through your account.

On your move-out date, you remove everything from the unit and return the key. The facility will inspect the unit to may support it is empty and undamaged. If the unit is clean and empty, your rental ends and you owe no further rent. If you leave items behind, the company may charge you for removal or storage. If you damage the unit beyond normal wear, you may be charged for repairs.

Your security deposit is returned within the timeframe stated in your rental agreement (often 30 to 45 days after move-out) if there are no damages or unpaid fees. The company will deduct any repair costs or late fees from the deposit before returning it. You should document the condition of your unit with photos when you move in and move out to protect yourself in case of a dispute.

When Extra Space Storage May Not Be the Right Choice

Extra Space Storage works well for temporary storage during a move, for keeping seasonal items, or for overflow from a home or business. It is not a solution if you need your items moved and packed for you — you handle all of that yourself. It is also not cost-effective for long-term storage of low-value items; the monthly rent will eventually exceed what the items are worth.

If you need climate control but cannot afford the premium, a standard unit might work for items that tolerate temperature swings, such as tools, books, or seasonal decorations. If you need frequent access to many different items, a smaller unit closer to your home will save you time. If you are storing valuable items, verify that your renters insurance covers storage units, because some policies do not.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I move out before my lease ends?

Yes. Extra Space Storage does not require a long-term contract. You can end your rental at any time by removing your items and giving notice (usually 30 days). You will owe rent through your final day, but you will not be charged for months you do not use the unit.

What happens if I do not pay my rent?

The company will charge a late fee and may lock your unit after a certain number of days unpaid (the exact timeline is in your agreement). If rent remains unpaid for several months, the company can place a lien on your items and eventually sell them at a lien sale to recover the debt. This is a legal process governed by your state.

Can I store my car or motorcycle in a unit?

Some Extra Space Storage locations rent large units that can fit a vehicle, but policies vary by facility. You must ask the specific location before renting. Vehicles must be drained of fuel and fluids, and you cannot run the engine inside the unit.

Is my renters insurance through my apartment covered at a storage unit?

Standard renters insurance often does not cover items in a storage facility. You should contact your insurance provider to ask whether your policy covers storage units. If not, Extra Space Storage offers renters insurance you can purchase, or you can buy a separate storage insurance policy.

How do I know if a unit is big enough for my items?

Extra Space Storage provides size estimates on its website — for example, a 10-by-10-foot unit typically holds the contents of a one-bedroom apartment. You can also visit the facility in person to see the units before you rent. If you are unsure, rent a slightly larger unit; it is cheaper than renting twice or having to move to a bigger unit mid-lease.