5 Best Self-Storage Companies (Updated Review)
Self-storage can be a smart solution for everything from decluttering to bridging the gap between homes.
But with hundreds of facilities and brands out there, finding a secure, affordable, and hassle‑free option can feel like another moving headache.
At moveBuddha, we know what makes a storage company stand out. Below, you’ll find our expert breakdown of the best self-storage companies for 2025, including real customer experiences, price comparisons, and tips to save money.
Best self-storage companies
Here are our picks for the best self-storage companies:
- Best for availability: U-Haul
- Best for discounts: CubeSmart
- Best for storage options: Simply Self Storage
- Best for eco-friendly service: Public Storage
- Best for security: Extra Space Storage
Best for availability: U-Haul
rating
4.15 / 5
89% of users select this mover
Why we chose it
If you’re planning a DIY move, using U-Haul for self-storage (in addition to renting a moving truck) is a no-brainer.
As one of the most widely available and recognizable self-storage providers in the U.S., U-Haul offers low prices, easy online booking, and the ability to book your storage unit alongside a moving truck rental.
With more than 20,000 locations nationwide, it should be easy to find a U-Haul near you. While U-Haul offers options like climate-controlled storage with 24/7 drive-up access, the availability of these features varies by location. Storage unit sizes can also vary, so what you need may not be available in your area.
- More than 20,000 locations with prominent pricing
- Rental options include everything from pick-up trucks to 26-foot moving trucks
- Gentle-Ride Suspension add protection to avoid damaging your items during transit
- U-Box moving containers available if you don't want to drive
Pros/Cons
- Online booking and account management
- 20,000+ locations nationwide
- Mini-storage and climate-controlled storage units
- Month-to-month payments
- No deposit or administrative fees
- Storage options vary by location
- Prices can often be higher than advertised
- Hit and miss customer service, especially with truck rentals
Read our full U-Haul review.
Best for discounts: CubeSmart
Why we chose it
If you’re looking for affordable self-storage, CubeSmart is an excellent pick. The company offers below-average prices and discounts for active military members, college students, and referrals.
You can also get free moving truck access for up to four hours at many facilities. The company also partners with Penske Truck Rental and SML to provide discounted services on moving truck rentals and labor.
CubeSmart is available throughout the U.S., with the exception of Alaska, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, North Dakota, Oregon, South Dakota, West Virginia, and Wyoming. The company also has locations in Washington, D.C.
Pros/Cons
- Below-average prices, plus a variety of discount options
- Free moving truck use at some locations
- Climate-controlled storage units
- Storage access is limited to business hours
- No security alarms
Read our full CubeSmart review.
Best for storage options: Simply Self Storage
Why we chose it
Simply Self Storage offers a wide range of extra services to cater to unique storage needs. In addition to personal self-storage, they also offer business self-storage, vehicle storage (including boat and RV storage), and climate-controlled wine storage.
Another perk of Simply Self Storage is that all renters receive $2,000 in insurance coverage. However, Simply Self Storage has fairly limited availability. With about 150 locations in 23 states, the nearest facility may not be near enough.
Pros/Cons
- Offers personal and business storage, as well as mini-storage
- Wide variety of vehicle storage options
- Climate-controlled storage available
- $2,000 in insurance coverage on units
- Only 150+ locations in 23 states
- Not BBB accredited
Read our full Simply Self Storage review.
Best for eco-friendly service: Public Storage
Why we chose it
Public Storage facilities use LED lighting, solar power generation, low-water landscaping, and 100% recycled moving boxes. It’s a leading owner of green-certified facilities in the U.S.
With nearly 3,000 locations in 41 states and Washington, D.C., Public Storage offers a variety of useful self-storage services, including vehicle and boat storage and climate-controlled units.
Month-to-month contracts and the ability to manage your account through their app or website make it easy to get exactly what you need.
Pros/Cons
- Uses a variety of eco-friendly practices
- Month-to-month rentals
- Offers climate-controlled units
- Vehicle and boat storage available
- Storage access limited to business hours
- Some complaints of high rate increases
Read our full Public Storage review.
Best for security: Extra Space Storage
Why we chose it
Security is a point of emphasis for the company, with coded-access entry gates, alarms on individual units, 24-hour video surveillance, and on-site managers. Customer reviews also praise the cleanliness of their storage units.
Available in 43 states and Washington, D.C., Extra Space Storage is also noteworthy for its impressive business storage, with some locations offering warehouse storage, on-site business centers, and reception of business deliveries.
The company doesn’t service Alaska, Arkansas, North Dakota, South Dakota, Vermont, West Virginia, or Wyoming.
Pros/Cons
- Comprehensive approach to onsite security, including alarmed units
- Vehicle, boat, and RV storage
- Wide-ranging business services
- Climate-controlled units available
- Must give 10-15 days of notice before moving out
- High demand means some locations may have limited availability
Read our full Extra Space Storage review.
Comparing the best self-storage companies
Here’s a quick breakdown of the best self-storage options.
| Company | Best for | Services | Average cost | Our rating | State availability |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| U-Haul | Availability | Self-storage, moving truck rentals, packing supplies | $158 per month | B | 50 + Canada |
| CubeSmart | Discounts | Climate-controlled self-storage | $160 per month | B+ | 41 |
| Simply Self Storage | Storage options | Personal and business self-storage, vehicle storage, mini storage | $116 per month | C+ | 23 states |
| Public Storage | Sustainability | Personal and business self-storage, vehicle and boat storage | $210 per month | B | 41 states + parts of Europe |
| Extra Space Storage | Secure storage | Personal and business self-storage, vehicle, boat and RV storage | $149 per month | B+ | 43 states |
Reasons to use a self-storage company
Using a self-storage company comes with many potential perks for both renters and homeowners. Here are some of the top reasons to consider using self-storage:
- Rental flexibility: Most of the best self-storage companies offer month-to-month contracts, perfect if you’re not sure how soon you’ll be able to move into your new home.
- Low prices: Self-storage companies are inexpensive compared to storing your items with a full-service mover.
- Storage offers: Many storage companies offer discounts (such as a low rate for your first month or reduced rates for long-term rentals). Always ask what offers are available.
- Cater to a variety of storage needs: Self-storage units can be used to declutter, store college students’ items during the summer, or to store your possessions while you’re in the middle of a move.
Need storage as part of a move? Check out our list of the best moving container companies that offer storage while you move.
Learn MoreFactors to consider when using a self-storage company
When selecting a unit, these features can make all the difference:
- Climate control: This feature is ideal for electronics, antiques, and important documents.
- Drive-up access: Consider this feature for an easier time loading bulky or heavy items.
- 24/7 entry: Some facilities offer round‑the‑clock access for flexibility.
- Cleanliness: Pest-free, well-lit units keep your items safer.
- App and online tools: Look for companies that let you manage reservations, payments, and access from your phone.
- On-site staff: Pick a company with reviews that suggest its team will answer questions and care for your belongings on-site.
How Much do Movers Cost?
Get instant ballpark pricing. No email or phone required. It's fast, free, and easy.
Types of storage units and what they’re best for
Not all storage units are the same. Make sure you pick the right type of unit for your situation:
- Personal storage: Furniture, seasonal gear, or temporary move overflow.
- Business storage: Records, inventory, or office supplies (common with Extra Space and Public Storage).
- Student storage: Small units, short-term leases, and discounts (CubeSmart and U‑Haul).
- Vehicle & RV storage: Secure parking for cars, boats, motorcycles.
- Specialty storage: Wine cellars, art vaults, climate-controlled valuables.
- Portable/container storage: Ideal for loading at your pace (PODS, U‑Box, and Clutter).
Need help sizing your storage needs? Try our storage unit size calculator.
How to book a storage unit
Renting a storage unit is typically a quick straightforward process. Here are the steps:
- Search locally: Compare facilities and features online or via aggregators.
- Pick size and extras: Choose your preferred unit type, climate control, and access features.
- Reserve it: Book your unit online. Some companies require a small refundable deposit.
- Bring ID and proof: You’ll likely need a photo ID, proof of insurance (if required), and payment.
- Review agreements: Confirm terms around the booking length, notice requirements, and fees.
- Inspect and move in: Bring a lock, inspect the unit, then load your items.
Tip: Reserve early in peak season, ask about move-in deals, and always get confirmation in writing.
How we chose the best self-storage companies
At moveBuddha, we’re dedicated to providing unbiased reviews and recommendations based on research. We evaluated dozens of storage providers across the country using strict criteria to find the most reliable, secure, and customer-friendly options. Here’s what we looked for:
- Cost and value: We prioritized companies that offer competitive pricing without sacrificing service quality, including flexible plans and transparent fees.
- Availability and access: We looked for widespread location coverage, 24/7 access options, and ease of booking online and in-person.
- Security features: We favored providers with safety measures like gated entry, surveillance, and climate-controlled units.
- Customer experience: We analyzed real user reviews, BBB ratings, and Better Moves Project insights to gauge customer satisfaction and service consistency.
- Extra features: We gave bonus points to companies offering perks like moving truck rentals, digital locks, and mobile app management.
FAQs
What are the benefits of self-storage?
The main benefits of self-storage are its flexibility and low cost. Most self-storage companies offer month-to-month contracts so you can use them for as long as you need, even if it’s very short-term.
You can access your unit whenever you want to add or remove items. Self-storage units are also generally quite affordable compared to using the storage services offered by a full-service moving company.
What are the main differences between self-storage and full-service storage?
Some moving companies offer full-service storage as part of their moving services. Their movers will take your possessions to a storage unit and keep them there until you’re ready to move into your new house. However, you generally can’t access your items while they are in storage.
With self-storage, you’re fully responsible for loading and unloading the storage unit but you can access your unit whenever you want and you’ll enjoy lower storage unit prices.
How far in advance should I reserve a self-storage unit?
Advance reservation policies vary by company. For example, Extra Space Storage lets you reserve your storage unit up to 14 days in advance. Check with your preferred company to see how early you can make a reservation.
What is the average size of a self-storage unit?
The average or most popular size for a self-storage unit is 10 feet x 10 feet, which gives you 100 square feet of storage space. These units can typically fit one to three bedrooms’ worth of items. However, smaller and larger units are available at most major self-storage companies.
When should I use climate-controlled storage?
Climate-controlled storage is essential when you plan on storing items that could be damaged by fluctuations in temperature and humidity. This is especially true when you’ll be storing the items for several months or longer.
Examples of items that can benefit from climate-controlled storage include:
- Antiques (Check out the best antique moving companies here)
- Wooden furniture
- Electronics
- Books and magazines
- Important documents
- Musical instruments
Not what you were looking for?
Check out other categories that can help you find the information you need!
