Hidden Fees with Storage Units
Administrative or Setup Fees
Explanation
Some storage facilities charge an administrative fee for setting up your account or processing paperwork when you rent a unit. These fees typically range from $10 to $50 and are often charged once at the beginning of the rental term.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
While administrative fees are relatively small, they are negotiable in some cases, especially if you are renting for a longer term or renting multiple units. You can ask if the administrative fee can be waived or reduced, or if it is included in the initial deposit.
Insurance Fees
Explanation
Many storage facilities require you to carry insurance for the items stored in the unit. While some facilities include basic coverage in the rent, others charge an additional fee for comprehensive coverage, which can range from $10 to $30 per month.
Probability to Save
Low to MediumWhy and How
If your homeowner's or renter’s insurance already covers the items in storage, you may be able to opt out of the facility’s insurance plan and avoid this additional fee. Always check your existing policy and confirm with the storage facility if your current insurance is sufficient to cover your stored items.
Climate Control Fees
Explanation
Some storage units are climate-controlled to maintain a specific temperature and humidity level, which is necessary for sensitive items like electronics, art, or documents. The cost for climate control typically ranges from $25 to $100 per month, depending on the size of the unit.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
If climate control is not absolutely necessary for your items, you can opt for a regular unit to save money. You may also be able to negotiate a lower price for a climate-controlled unit if you’re renting for a long term, or you can shop around for more affordable climate-controlled options.
Late Payment Fees
Explanation
Many storage facilities charge a late payment fee if your monthly rent is not paid on time. This fee can range from $10 to $50, or more, depending on the facility’s policies.
Probability to Save
LowWhy and How
Late fees are usually outlined in your contract and may not be negotiable. To avoid this fee, make sure to set up automatic payments or set a reminder to pay on time. Some facilities may also offer discounts or grace periods for early payments, so it’s worth asking about these options when renting the unit.
Lock Fees
Explanation
Some storage units charge a lock fee for the padlock that secures your unit. This charge can range from $10 to $25, and in some cases, it may be an upfront purchase instead of a rental fee.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
If you already have a suitable lock, you may be able to waive this fee by using your own lock. Be sure to ask about this when you’re signing the rental agreement. If the facility insists on providing the lock, you can try negotiating to include the lock as part of the rental package or get it at a lower price.
Admin Fees for Changing Units
Explanation
Some storage facilities charge an admin fee if you decide to change to a different unit after renting. This fee can range from $25 to $75 and may be applied if you need to upgrade or downgrade your storage size.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
If you anticipate needing a different-sized unit during your rental period, ask about this fee upfront. While it’s often non-negotiable, some facilities may waive or reduce the fee if you’re staying at the same facility and the change benefits them (such as moving to a larger unit).
Cancellation Fees
Explanation
If you cancel your rental contract early, some facilities may charge a cancellation fee or require you to pay for the remaining portion of the rental term. Cancellation fees can vary from $25 to $100.
Probability to Save
LowWhy and How
Check the cancellation policy before signing any rental agreement. Many facilities will waive this fee if you give proper notice (e.g., 30 days in advance). If you have a long-term rental agreement, you might be able to negotiate the cancellation terms before committing.
Administrative Fee for Ending the Rental Term
Explanation
Some storage facilities charge an administrative fee when you vacate the unit, often as a way to process the final paperwork. This fee can range from $20 to $50.
Probability to Save
LowWhy and How
This fee is usually non-negotiable, but it is worth checking in advance to see if it can be avoided or reduced. Make sure to clear out your unit before the final day of your rental period and return any keys or access cards to ensure you don’t incur extra charges.
Overage Fees for Extra Items
Explanation
If you exceed the size or weight limit of your storage unit, some facilities charge an overage fee for additional items that don’t fit. These fees can range from $10 to $50 or more, depending on the size of the unit and the extent of the overage.
Probability to Save
MediumWhy and How
To avoid this fee, make sure to properly assess the size of the unit before renting it. If you find that your belongings are taking up more space than expected, consider upgrading to a larger unit before the fee applies. Some facilities may allow you to temporarily use a larger unit without charging for the change.
Unit Preparation Fees
Explanation
Some storage facilities charge a fee for preparing the unit for you, such as cleaning, inspection, or setting up a unit with specific features. These fees can range from $10 to $25.
Probability to Save
Low to MediumWhy and How
If you’re renting a standard unit, this fee might be waived, as it’s more common for specialized units (e.g., climate-controlled, high-security). If you’re asked to pay this fee, ask if the unit has already been prepared or if there is a free unit available that doesn't require this charge.
Access Fees for After-Hours or Limited Access
Explanation
Some storage facilities charge a fee for access to your unit outside of regular hours. If you need to visit your unit after business hours, expect an access fee that could range from $10 to $30.
Probability to Save
LowWhy and How
This fee is often non-negotiable but check for storage facilities with 24/7 access if you require more flexible hours. If you're willing to adjust your schedule to visit during business hours, you can avoid the fee altogether.