Frequently Asked Questions
Do you have questions as you begin your hunt for a storage unit? We’ve got the answers to help make your rental process as smooth as possible. Whether you want to know what size storage units we offer, how our access hours work, or the kinds of moving supplies we sell on site, you’ll find all of the information you need in this list of frequently asked questions. For your convenience, we’ve split the topics up into four sections related to the rental and storage experience, as well as the moving and payment process.
Renting a Storage Unit
Q: What storage space sizes are available?
A: We have storage units available from 4×4 small closet spaces up to 10×30 spaces and other non-standard sizes. We can help you select just the right size to fit your needs, so you don’t end up paying for too much space or struggling to find room in a unit that’s too small.
Q: What are the storage unit rates?
A: Prices vary by space size and location, so contact the facility near you to find out the rates for each unit. Our managers will be happy to help you determine size and pricing.
Q: Do you offer climate-controlled units, and how do I know if I need one?
A: Many of our facilities have climate-controlled storage units. This means they have regulated temperature and humidity levels year-round. Not all units are climate-controlled at the facilities that offer them – it depends on the size you’re looking for. Climate control is best suited for temperature-sensitive items such as:
- Furniture
- Wooden Items
- Electronics
- Documents
- Artwork
Q: Do your storage units have high ceilings?
A: Ceilings in our storage units range from four feet for bottom row “lockers” (small closet spaces) to between 10 and 14 feet in larger units. High ceilings can help you make more efficient use of space in your unit, as they allow you to stack items.
Q: Do I need an appointment to view the facility and the storage units within it?
A: We recommend that you call ahead, but you can visit any of our facilities without an appointment during office hours. We’ll gladly provide you information and a tour of the facility.
Q: What do I need to bring with me when I rent a storage unit?
A: To rent a unit, you only need a current government-issued photo ID, a current address, and a phone number at which you can be reached.
Q: Can I sign a lease for/with my friend or relative?
A: Unless you have proof that you are either the legal guardian of an individual, or an authorized agent for a business, only the tenant named on the lease may sign the lease.
Q: What if I need more or less space after I move in?
A: It’s not always easy to know if you have the amount of space you need until you’ve actually moved in. But we’re flexible to your needs: If you’d like a smaller unit, a larger unit, or an additional unit, the manager will be happy to help make it happen.
Access and Amenities
Q: What are your hours?
A: Most of our facilities are open from 6 am to 10 pm, but it depends on the facility. Some facilities offer 24-hour access for commercial tenants – ask your nearest facility about this option. Our hours vary a lot more from location-to-location. To find a specific facility’s access and office hours, browse our list of locations.
Q: Will anyone else have access to my space?
A: No, when you rent a space, you provide the lock, and only you have the key. The only thing lock-related that we do is sell locks – they’re available in your facility’s main office.
Q: If I lose my key, can you help me get into my storage unit?
A: No, we do not have a copy or master key to any of our storage units. You would need to have your lock removed by a locksmith. If you need one, we can recommend a local expert.
Q: Can you accept deliveries for me?
A: Yes, we’re happy to accept deliveries for you from FedEx, UPS, and other delivery companies. We’ll sign for you and have them waiting upon your arrival. Just speak with your facility manager to make that arrangement.
The Moving Process
Q: Do you sell boxes and moving supplies?
A: Yes, we sell a wide variety of boxes – from small boxes for books and other heavy items to wardrobe boxes in which you can actually hang your clothing for your move. We also sell tape, bubble wrap, and other moving supplies to make your packing and moving as smooth and organized as possible.
Q: Do you have movers?
A: We do not have movers, but on a local level, our store management teams can recommend a list of reputable and dependable movers that we will be happy to share with you. We also can provide information on our U-Haul truck rentals.
Q: Does your facility accommodate large moving vans?
A: Yes, our facilities have large driveways to easily accommodate large moving vans.
Q: Do you have any advice on packing or how to pack my storage space?
A: Yes, our managers can offer you pamphlets with many helpful tips on packing your items, as well as how to place them in your storage space – this assures easy access and the most efficient use of your space.
Leases, Payment, and Insurance
Q: How long of a contract do I have to sign?
A: We don’t require long-term contracts or a certain deposit – each lease is month-to-month.
Q: Can I pay my bill automatically every month?
A: Yes, we encourage our customers to sign up for automatic monthly payment to avoid missed payments and late fees. Once signing up, your lease will renew at the beginning of each month.
Q: Will I receive a monthly invoice?
A: We normally don’t send you a monthly invoice, but we can if you request it.
Q: What about insurance?
A: We highly recommend that you obtain insurance on your own, as we don’t insure your belongings ourselves. Some homeowner and renter’s policies cover items stored. You should check with your insurance company to verify whether or not yours does.
If you have any additional questions we didn’t answer here, or you’d like to get more information on our facilities’ offerings, contact your local Compass Self Storage facility today!
For questions on refunds or cancellations, please call the site manager.