Storage Tips

It depends on volume rather than item count. A 5×5 holds roughly a hall closet's worth, a 10×10 handles one to two bedrooms, and a 10×20 fits most three- to four-bedroom homes. Our size guide shows what fits in each, with examples. When you're genuinely between two sizes, the larger one is usually the better call — the price difference is smaller than the cost of running out of room.

No. A free lock is included with every move-in, so there's nothing to buy beforehand.

It depends entirely on what you're storing. Climate-controlled units maintain a stable temperature range rather than swinging with outdoor conditions, which matters for solid wood furniture, electronics, media, artwork, musical instruments, leather, and paper records. For patio furniture, garden tools, plastic bins, or a vehicle, a standard unit is usually the sensible choice.

Nearly all 10 Federal locations offer 24/7 gate access, so you can come and go on your own schedule rather than around office hours. Access details for a specific facility are listed on that location's page.

Our facilities are fully automated with no on-site staff — that's how we keep rates competitive. You rent online, receive your access details, and go straight to your unit whenever it suits you. Our customer support team is available if you have questions or run into an issue, and everything else is handled through your online account. Plan to bring your own help and equipment for moving day.

No. Because our facilities are unstaffed, there's nobody available to receive or sign for deliveries. Shipments need to go to an address where someone can accept them, and you bring the items to your unit yourself.

We don't. Our facilities are automated and unstaffed, so there's no retail counter on site. Pick up boxes, tape, and packing materials from a hardware store, big-box retailer, or truck rental location before your move-in day.

Each unit is rented to a single party. If multiple people need to access the unit and share responsibility for it, that's worth working out before you complete the rental.

A protection plan is required at checkout. It has coverage limits and category exclusions — high-value items like jewelry, cash, and collectibles are commonly excluded from standard coverage. Review the terms at checkout so you know what's covered before deciding what to store. Some homeowners and renters policies extend limited coverage to items in storage, which is worth checking with your own insurer.

Flammable and combustible materials such as gasoline and propane, hazardous or toxic chemicals, perishable food, plants and animals, stolen or illegal property, and anything unlawful. Units also can't be occupied or used as a workspace. Drain fuel and oil from mowers, generators, and similar equipment before storing them.

Rentals are month-to-month, with no long-term contract. Keep it for a month or several years, and move out through your online account when you're ready.

Yes. If your needs change, a transfer to a larger or smaller unit can be arranged through your account, subject to availability at that facility.