Whether you have boxes cluttering your storage space at home or heirloom furniture too precious to sell but too hideous to use, a storage unit can solve your problems. When it comes to picking a storage unit, there’s more to the choice than size, location and cost. Our partners at ConsumerAffairs researched the best storage units in Baltimore to help you find the right unit at the right price.
Storage facilities in Baltimore offer different features and types of units. While size, location and price matter, it’s also important to also consider the kind of facility needed to keep your belongings safe and in good condition.
Outdoor units are generally cheaper and have wide aisles that allow you to drive directly to the unit’s door and provide easy access for storing large items.
Indoor units are generally climate-controlled, typically have better pest control and may have electrical outlets inside the unit.
Once you choose the type of facility that suits you best, look at other features and amenities available in Baltimore. Some additional considerations include:
Unit size: Pick the smallest size that holds your belongings to avoid paying for space you don’t need. If you’re storing boxes of old family photos, holiday decorations and memorabilia from your college years, stick to the smaller end of the scale. It’s easier to upgrade size than downgrade once you sign a contract.
Access: If the items you’re storing are small and light enough to comfortably carry in an elevator or up stairs, an indoor unit might be the right choice. For heavier or bulkier items such as furniture and large appliances, a facility with drive-up units makes loading and unloading much easier.
Lighting: Sufficient lighting is important in both indoor and drive-up units. Well-lit facilities reduce the risk of crime and burglary and make it easier to see after dark.
Operating hours: Many facilities are accessible 24/7, but some aren’t. Some facilities have specific hours and days of operation. Be sure to find a facility that matches your schedule.
The cost of storage units in Baltimore
While the cost of a unit is based primarily on its size, the price to rent a storage unit varies from company to company and even facility to facility. The larger the unit and the more features it has, the more it costs to rent.
Average cost of storage units in Baltimore
Unit size
Average cost
5’ x 5’
$35
5’ x 10’
$50
10’ x 10’
$85
10’ x 15’
$115
10’ x 20’
$175
Units at facilities that offer on-site employees and 24-hour security guards cost more than units at unstaffed facilities with gate codes. Prices are usually higher in urban areas as well. If apartments cost more than average in your neighborhood, storage units likely will too.
Many facilities in Baltimore offer month-to-month agreements, but this often comes at a price. For long-term storage, reduce your cost by opting for a one- or two-year rental agreement. You may also get a discount for paying for the full term of your rental upfront.
Climate-controlled unit options in Baltimore
Renting a climate-controlled unit increases your the cost by 25 to 50 percent but protects your valuables from temperature and humidity damage. When deciding whether you need climate control, consider:
The type of items you’re storing: Climate control is necessary for some possessions. Antiques, wine and mattresses all fare better in climate control units. Other items, such as vinyl records, musical instruments, photographs and important documents, can all be damaged by temperature or humidity.
How long you plan on storing items: For short-term storage, climate control is rarely a necessity. If you’re storing items for an extended period, they’re more likely to be damaged by temperature or humidity.
Storage facility security in Baltimore
Don’t overlook the importance of good security, which prevents theft and protects people while accessing their units. When comparing facilities, look for features such as:
24-hour video surveillance
On-site security guard
Individual gate or access codes
Fenced perimeter
Staffed front gate or entrance
Alarmed units
Intercom and emergency call systems
Fire alarms
Protecting your stored items in Baltimore
Most storage companies in Baltimore offer insurance, but it is illegal to require customers to purchase insurance from the facility. Your stored items may be protected by your homeowners or renters insurance policy — check your policy or ask your insurance provider to be sure.
Storage unit rights and responsibilities in Baltimore
Before you sign a long-term agreement, make sure it is one you can afford. Maryland law allows facility owners or managers to place a lien on storage units and sell the items inside it if a payment is more than 60 days late.
Storage unit rental agreements in Baltimore are governed by the state’s landlord-tenant and consumer protection laws. The Maryland Attorney General website offers additional information on leases, escrow and tenant/renters rights under the law.
SpareFoot
This online storage marketplace allows you to find and reserve a storage unit in Baltimore within minutes. Just enter your zip code and let SpareFoot generate an up-to-date listing of every available unit near you with price and optional features. Baltimore customers love how easy SpareFoot makes it to compare multiple facilities at once.
U-Haul
U-Haul offers top-tier storage with traditional storage facilities and U-Box long-term storage options. Their storage facilities are clean, dry, secure and accessible 24/7. U-Haul offers convenient online payment options and doesn’t require a deposit. Baltimore customers say the company’s facilities are well-lit, clean and offer great prices.
PODS
PODS provides storage containers that come in multiple sizes and are delivered to you to be filled at your convenience. Once loaded, they can be stored at your home or taken to a PODS facility. Facility storage is clean, secure and climate-controlled. Baltimore residents say packing at their own pace at home was an excellent experience.
Extra Space Storage
Extra Space Storage offers a variety of unit sizes as well as indoor, outdoor and vehicle storage options. The company also provides climate-controlled units and state-of-the-art security. Reviews from Baltimore recommend Extra Space Storage for its clean, well-managed facilities and professional, friendly staff.