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How Does Self Storage Work? Everything You Need To Know

Front of self storage unit Elite Self Storage

Self storage is a flexible and practical solution when you need extra space for your belongings. Whether you're moving, downsizing, deploying, remodeling, dealing with life changes like marriage, divorce, retirement, or extended travel, self-storage can help.

At Elite Self Storage, we offer convenient storage options with no long-term contracts or security deposits, making it easier to rent exactly what you need.

Why Do People Rent Self Storage Units?

People use self storage for many reasons, including:

  • Moving or relocating

  • Downsizing or remodeling a home

  • Military deployment or extended travel

  • Marriage, divorce, or retirement

  • Storing excess business inventory

  • Managing belongings after a death in the family

Self storage provides a secure space to keep your household goods, business items, or special belongings safe and accessible.

In this guide we will explain how self storage works and everything you need to know about storage.

How To Choose the Right Type of Storage Unit

At Elite Self Storage, we offer a variety of units to suit your needs and budget. Our units include:

Climate-Controlled Units: Ideal for temperature-sensitive items such as electronics, antiques, documents, seasonal goods, or clothing. These climate-controlled storage units help protect against humidity and extreme weather changes.

Outdoor Unheated Drive-Up Units: These are more affordable and super convenient for loading and unloading household items right from your vehicle.

Multiple Sizes Available: Whether you’re storing a few boxes or everything from a three-bedroom house, we’ve got space that fits.

Outdoor and Indoor Vehicle Storage: Our storage spaces allow you to access your vehicle frequently with our outdoor vehicle storage, or you can park your vehicle in our indoor vehicle storage, which offers limited access.

Know What You Can and Can’t Store

Not everything can be stored in storage facilities. Some things are strictly prohibited, such as:

  • Perishable food

  • Flammable or combustible material

  • Illegal items or substances

Understanding what’s not allowed helps you avoid any issues or delays. When in doubt, check with our staff—We’re happy to guide you.

Pick the Amenities You Need

Think about what features will make your life easier; our storage units offer:

  • Drive-up access for easy loading

  • Climate-control for sensitive items

  • Indoor access or extended hours for convenience

  • Security features like gated access and surveillance

Choosing the right amenities helps keep your items safe and in excellent condition.

Check out our storage unit size guide to help you determine what size of storage unit you will need.

Special Discounts

We offer discounts to military, seniors and students, ask about our special pricing. Please bring a valid ID to verify your eligibility.

How to Rent a Storage Unit

Renting a unit is quick and easy! You can:

  • Rent a storage unit online 24/7 through our website. You can move in completely online—from selecting your unit to signing your lease.

  • Visit us during office hours to get set-up in person

Once your rental agreement is signed and your first month’s rent is paid, you’ll receive an access code to enter the facility. You can also:

  • Buy a lock from our office or bring your own

  • Pick up packing supplies (boxes, tape, bubble wrap, etc.)

  • Use our complimentary moving carts and dollies.

How Self Storage Billing Works

The day you move in becomes your anniversary date. Rent is due on that same day each month. We offer month-to-month billing. You can also sign up for automatic billing to avoid late fees.

If rent is not paid on your monthly payment date, late fees will be added and your access code will be disabled.

Payment Options

Elite Self Storage offers multiple payment options, including:

  • Automatic billing by credit card or bank account

  • E-transfers

  • Online account payments

Is Self Storage Insurance Required?

Yes, insurance is required for all storage units. We offer affordable plans through a third-party provider; however, you are also welcome to use your own insurance. Please provide us with proof of coverage upon moving in.

Accessing Your Storage Unit

Access Hours: 6:00 AM- 10:00 PM, everyday

·        Moving Out: Just give 30 days’ notice

·        On move-out day, remove all contents and your lock, clean the unit, and notify our staff so we can close your account.

              If your plans change and you need to stay longer, no problem, just let us know!

What Happens if I Don't Pay For My Storage Unit?

We provide multiple reminders before taking further action:

  1. You’ll receive reminders by phone and email.

  2. If the account remains unpaid, we’ll send a registered letter.

  3. If payment still isn’t made, a public auction may be scheduled.

You can prevent the auction at any time before it starts by paying the full balance.

Moving Out Of Your Storage Unit

You are required to give one month's notice before you move out of the storage unit. If you change your mind, just let staff know and they will give you an extension. On your move out day, leave the unit swept out and empty, with no belongings. Inform staff when this is done and they will close the unit.

WHY CHOOSE ELITE SELF STORAGE?

Whether you need short-term or long-term storage, let Elite Self Storage provide you with the extra storage space you need to store your belongings. 

At Elite Self Storage, we’re committed to offering:

  • Clean, secure units in multiple sizes

  • Flexible rental terms with no long-term commitments

  • Excellent service

  • Convenient locations in St. Albert and Edmonton

 We recommend making a free reservation online to guarantee your spot. Availability can change quickly, and it’s always better to plan ahead. There’s no fee to reserve, and you can cancel at any time.

Still have questions about storage? Check out our frequently asked questions.

We welcome walk-ins and don't require a reservation.  We do, however, recommend reserving a unit as specials can change, and availability can be limited.  Making a storage reservation will ensure your storage locker is available when you need it.  At Elite Self Storage, there is no cost to make a reservation, and you can cancel it at any time without charge.  If you are unable to make it into the office during regular business hours, reservations and move-ins can be completed online.

Looking For Storage Rental in St. Albert or Edmonton?

Elite Self Storage is locally owned and proud to serve:

St. Albert: Conveniently located near St. Albert Trail, minutes from downtown St. Albert, Edmonton Garrison, and surrounding communities. This location is also known as Riel Park RV & Mini Storage.

South Edmonton: Near 97 Street and Parsons Industrial Park

North Edmonton: Close to Yellowhead Trail and Wayne Gretzky Drive

Let’s Get You Started

Rent or Reserve Now | Pricing

Call us: 780-347-0433

Visit us: Stop by any of our locations during office hours

Whether you need space for a few weeks or a few years, we’ve got a solution that fits. Self-storage made simple, with service you can trust and count on. 

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