Find the Best Storage Units in Tampa, FL

How to choose self-storage units in Tampa

While all storage units serve the same purpose, most facilities are set up differently. Some have drive-up access that allows you to park a vehicle next to your unit for easy loading and unloading. These outdoor facilities aren’t often climate-controlled, however. Interior units are climate-controlled and often have elevators to move large items from your car or truck to storage units on higher floors.

Other factors to consider when you’re choosing a Tampa storage facility include:

• 24/7 access: Some facilities have specific hours, so be sure your facility will be open when you need access.
• Security features: Some facilities have an onsite manager, and most have video surveillance. You should have a code that gets you in and out of the gate, and your unit should be secured with a lock you buy or the facility provides.
• Insurance: Your homeowners or renters insurance may cover your unit. Some self-storage facilities in Tampa provide additional coverage and may in fact mandate it.
• Vehicle storage: Some facilities will have storage designed for vehicles, which is useful if you need to park an RV or boat. Vehicle storage is also helpful for military members stationed at MacDill Air Force Base who receive an overseas assignment.

The cost of storage units in Tampa

The price of your unit will depend on its size, the type of lease you sign and the location. The average monthly cost for a storage unit in Tampa is around $90, but the same storage company can have varying rates at different facilities. You’ll pay more for units in urban centers like Ybor or Tampa Heights than in remote areas like Riverview or Plant City.

Unit size is the biggest factor in your storage unit costs, so choose the smallest unit that provides the space you need. The average cost for a 5’ x 5’ unit in Tampa is around $45, but that price climbs to $175 for a 10’ x 20’ unit. The location of the unit also matters. A ground floor unit or unit near an elevator will likely cost more than a top-floor unit that requires more walking.

Facilities may also charge more for certain amenities, including:

• Enhanced security
• Pest control
• Climate control
• Vehicle or boat storage
• Moving help (trucks, supplies, etc.)

Most self-storage facilities in Tampa offer month-to-month contracts but may require a 30-day notice before you terminate the contract. Be sure to read your contact to understand your obligations. Facilities can increase rent prices at any time unless the lease states otherwise, so ask how much notice you’ll receive before a cost increase. Many facilities have an administrative fee that covers your account setup.

With all the competition in Tampa, you can often find companies that offer the first month free or the free use of a moving van. Discounts are sometimes available for military members, students, teachers and first responders.

Protecting items in your storage unit in Tampa

Tampa is extremely humid, so consider using a climate-controlled unit if you’re storing books, artwork, photographs or other collectibles that might warp or wear. Insects also thrive in humid conditions, so make sure your unit’s maintenance plan includes pest control, especially if it’s not a climate-controlled facility.

Your homeowners or renters insurance may cover your belongings in your storage unit. Talk to your insurance agent about your property coverage, which should include possessions stored outside your home. If your policy doesn’t cover the value of the stored items, consider increasing your coverage or discuss options with your storage facility.