Frequently Asked Self Storage Questions

Getting Started

Why choose Atlantic Self Storage?

Atlantic Self Storage is locally owned and operated, serving the community since 1979. As a family-owned business, decisions are made with a long-term commitment to the neighborhoods we operate in, not short-term corporate priorities. The revenue generated at our locations stays within the local community, supporting jobs, property investment, and economic stability. We also maintain an active presence in charitable initiatives, regularly contributing to local causes and community programs. Customers choosing Atlantic Self Storage are not only selecting a storage provider, but also supporting a business that reinvests in the communities it serves. https://www.atlanticselfstorage.com/giving-back/

How do I rent a storage unit?

You can rent a storage unit by visiting one of our locations, calling the office, or completing the rental process online where available. A valid government-issued photo ID, your full legal name, Social Security Number, at least one alternate contact, proof of insurance or enrollment in tenant insurance, and a debit or major credit card are required to complete the rental agreement. You must secure your rented unit with a lock immediately after completing the rental agreement in order to ensure immediate access and security.

What do I need to bring to rent a unit?

You need to bring one of the following at time of rental: current (non-expired) state issued photo identification card, driver’s license, or passport. You will be required to provide your full legal name, social security number, and at least one alternate contact as well. A debit or major credit card will be placed on file for monthly billings. A full Social Security Number is required for identity verification, lien law compliance, and military status verification. We take data protection seriously and use this information only for required legal and operational purposes.

How old do I need to be to rent a storage unit at Atlantic Self Storage?

All renters must be at least 18 years old and provide valid identification at the time of move-in.

Can I reserve a unit online without paying?

Reservation options may vary by location and channel. In many cases, a reservation can be placed before the full move-in is completed, but a completed rental agreement, required documentation, and payment method on file are needed before move-in. Contact your local facility for location-specific reservation procedures.

Pricing and Payments

How much does a storage unit cost per month?

Monthly rent depends on the unit size, unit type, and market conditions at the specific property. Atlantic Self Storage does not price every location the same. Rates vary by product and market, and promotional rates may be available depending on availability and timing.

What is included in the move-in cost?

A one-time fee of $29.00 is applied at the start of each new rental. This fee helps to balance the administrative costs involved with completing the rental agreement packet. Move-in costs typically include the first rental payment, the one-time administrative fee, any required insurance if outside coverage is not provided, and the lock or other supplies you choose to purchase.

Are all Atlantic Self Storage locations priced the same?

No. Each site is priced differently depending on the product and market conditions at that location. Rates are set by product type, availability, and local market conditions. The same unit size may be priced differently at different properties. A $4.95 to $10.00 Smart Storage Service line item is added to all monthly rentals.

Will my rent increase over time?

Promotional rates are guaranteed for a minimum of 90 days. After that, accounts are periodically reviewed for market adjustments, typically around 9 months after the promotional period. Any adjustment is preceded by a 30-day advance notice. Increase amounts vary by unit and property and are not published in advance.

How often does the rent increase?

Rates are not adjusted on a fixed automatic schedule for every account. After the promotional period, accounts are periodically reviewed for market adjustments, typically around 9 months later. When an adjustment is made, 30 days advance notice is provided.

What is a promotional rate?

A promotional rate is a temporary introductory rate offered at move-in on select units. Promotional rates are guaranteed for at least 90 days. After that, the account may later be reviewed for market adjustment with proper advance notice.

Do you offer discounts?

Atlantic Self Storage does not offer traditional discounts in most situations, but we do offer promotional rates and prepaid incentives. Military discounted rate availability should be confirmed with the specific location and current offer structure.

Do you offer prepaid incentives?

Yes. On qualifying promotions, customers who prepay may receive a 13th month free incentive. Availability and terms should be confirmed with the facility before move-in.

When is my payment due each month?

Rent is due monthly based on your account billing cycle. Your due date is established at move-in and remains tied to your renewal date unless otherwise adjusted by written agreement.

Is there a grace period for late payments?

Yes. Atlantic Self Storage provides a 6-day grace period on rental payments.

What happens if I miss a payment?

If payment is not received by the end of the grace period, a late fee of $20 or 20% of rent, whichever is greater, will be charged. Access is restricted on day 7 past due. Continued non-payment may result in the account entering the lien process and eventual lien sale in accordance with applicable law and the rental agreement.

Do you offer autopay?

Yes. Autopay is preferred and recommended to help avoid missed payments, late fees, and access interruptions. Payment methods on file are also used for recurring monthly billing.

Can I pay with a check?

Yes. Atlantic Self Storage will accept checks as form of payment; however, we are unable to accept Starter checks, checks issued by a foreign bank, or any form of check payment at initial time of rental. Check acceptance is subject to these restrictions. A debit or major credit card is placed on file at move-in for monthly billing purposes.

Access and Security

During what times can I access my stored items?

We provide an individual access code that allows 24-hour access at most facilities, 365 days a year, as long as your unit is current on its rent. Loss of power to the property or emergency conditions may temporarily suspend access at some times. Please note that payments made on delinquent accounts after storage facility business hours will not allow gate access or ensure over lock removal until up to three business days. Please check with your specific facility either over the phone, in-person, or online to confirm access hours. Some facilities have limited hours of operation and access. Customer access is separate from office hours. Access may be restricted on day 7 past due. For convenience and uninterrupted entry, keep the account current and contact the office if a delinquent payment is made after hours.

What are your office hours?

Most of our offices are open 9:30am to 6pm Monday through Saturday. Also be aware that emergencies can occur at the last minute and may affect office and/or customer access hours. We will always do our best to post notices if/when these situations occur. We close all facility offices in observance of the following holidays: New Year’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day. We also close early on Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Office hours are when team members are available to assist with rentals, move-outs, payments, and supplies. Access hours may be broader than office hours depending on the location.

What is the difference between office hours and customer access?

Office hours are when our staff is available to assist you with your storage needs or packing or moving supplies. Customer access are the hours when you’re able to gain entry to access your belongings via unique pin code entry. In short, office hours govern staff availability, while access hours govern when you can enter the property using your gate code.

What security features are in place?

Atlantic Self Storage uses features such as gated access, video cameras, and on-site staff at many locations. These systems are designed to help protect your belongings and help monitor the property, but no storage facility can guarantee against every possible loss event.

Are the facilities monitored?

Many facilities use cameras and on-site management presence to help monitor activity. Monitoring features vary by location, so customers should confirm specific security features with the property they plan to use.

What happens if my unit is broken into?

Any suspected break-in should be reported to the facility immediately and to local law enforcement. Because insurance is required, customers should also contact their insurance provider or tenant insurance carrier regarding a potential claim. Storage facilities take precautions, but cannot control every unforeseen event.

Can I share access with someone else?

Customers may add authorized users to their account. Gate codes should not be shared. The primary customer remains responsible for all guests, authorized users, and anyone accessing the unit under the account.

Can you accept packages for me?

Yes. We can accept small packages on your behalf. Inquire at your facility for specifics, rules, and details. Package acceptance is limited and location-specific. Contact the facility before shipping anything to confirm size limits, handling expectations, and any site-specific restrictions.

Unit Types and Features

What size storage unit do I need?

Our unit size guide can quickly help you determine which unit will be the right size for what you plan to store. You can also contact our Storage Experts at one of our 58+ locations to discuss your storage needs and receive tips and advice on the best fit for you. The best fit depends on the number and type of items you are storing, how often you need access, and whether you want aisle space for retrieval. Our team can help you avoid paying for more space than you need while still allowing safe access to your belongings.

What is climate-controlled storage?

Atlantic Self Storage commonly refers to these units as climate-controlled, but more precisely they are temperature-controlled units designed to maintain a more consistent environment and generally stay below 85 degrees. They are a strong choice for items that are more sensitive to heat fluctuations.

Do I need climate control in Florida?

It depends on what you are storing. Temperature-controlled units are recommended for items such as electronics, documents, furniture, photographs, and other belongings that may be more sensitive to heat. For customers storing these types of items in Florida, climate-controlled or temperature-controlled space is often the better option.

What is the difference between inside and outside storage units?

Our inside units are typically located inside a building within the property. Some of our locations are multi-story buildings which are accessible via elevators and wide corridors. You can use our carts to help transport your items to your unit at select locations. Outside units are ground level access and normally have drive-up access directly to your unit. Inside units may offer easier indoor movement and more protection from the elements during loading, while outside units usually provide the convenience of drive-up access.

What are drive up units?

Drive-up unit is a ground floor or outdoor unit that has its own loading area. These units are ideal for storing large, heavy items or equipment since you have the ability to load your belongings directly from a vehicle or truck. Drive-up space is often preferred by customers who need fast loading, unloading, or frequent access to larger items.

Can I switch units if I choose the wrong size?

Yes. Units can be transferred with proper planning and subject to availability. The new unit must be rented first, and once the original unit is emptied, any remaining amounts on the first unit can be moved over. When handled this way, there are no additional transfer fees and pricing is not reset.

Can I upgrade or downgrade my unit?

Yes, subject to availability. The transfer process is the same whether you are moving into a larger or smaller unit. Contact the office in advance so the new unit can be secured before the existing one is vacated.

Are there lights in the storage unit?

Some locations have units with a light inside the unit making it easier to the locate the things you are trying to find. Additional lighting products are available for sale in most of our offices. Lighting availability varies by unit and location. If lighting is important for your use, confirm this feature before renting.

Do you supply locks?

Yes. We sell packaged disc locks at each of our locations. You will be the only one with a key to your unit. Atlantic Self Storage does not retain ‘master’ keys. It is a requirement of our rental agreement that all customers secure their rented unit at the time of rental. Customers must also remove the purchased lock at time of vacate. Disc locks are recommended because they provide strong physical protection and are commonly used for self storage. You may ask the office what lock type is best for the specific unit you are renting.

Do you have carts or hand trucks I could use?

Many locations provide carts or hand trucks, such as push carts and mattress carts, to make moving easier. Availability varies by property, so please confirm with your local facility.

What is a Resident Storage Expert?

Most of our sites have a ‘Resident Storage Expert team’ which means the facility employee(s) has an apartment as part of the facility. Having staff on site adds convenience and additional property presence for customers.

Policies and Restrictions

Is insurance required?

Yes. While our facilities take many precautions against damage or loss, we cannot control unforeseen circumstances, conditions, or potential disasters. Homeowner’s or Renter’s insurance policies are accepted with an active Declaration page presented at the time of rental agreement. Customers are strongly encouraged to check with their insurance provider to ensure that off-site storage is covered in their policy. If your insurance doesn’t cover items in off-site storage, we also offer SBOA Tenant Insurance which is a simple and inexpensive way to protect belongings from the unexpected. Insurance is required at move-in and must remain active for the duration of the lease. This helps protect your stored property from unforeseen loss events. If you already have valid outside coverage, bring your declaration page at move-in.

What items are prohibited from storage?

Yes. Prohibited items include, but are not limited to perishable goods, flammable materials, explosives and other dangerous materials, and any item(s) that violates any county, state, or federal law(s). Please inquire with one of our Storage Experts about items that are restricted from being stored on our properties as outlined in our rental agreement. If you are uncertain whether an item is allowed, ask the office before moving it in. Storage units are intended for lawful storage only and must not be used in any way that creates safety, environmental, or legal risk.

Do I need to provide my full Social Security Number?

Yes. A government issued photo identification and a full Social Security Number are required to rent a storage unit with Atlantic Self Storage. The Social Security Number requirement supports identity verification, lien law compliance, and military status verification. We take data protection seriously and use this information only for required legal and operational purposes.

Can I run a business out of my storage unit?

No. Units are intended for storage purposes only. Operating a business from a unit, meeting customers there, performing ongoing commercial activity, or using the space in a manner prohibited by the rental agreement is not allowed.

Can I store a 4-post car lift or perform mechanical work in my unit?

No. For safety and liability reasons, installation of car lifts is not permitted in storage units, and mechanical work or vehicle maintenance is not allowed on site.

Move-Out and Account Changes

How much notice do I need to give to vacate?

We require at least 15 days written notice to vacate your unit. Once you have removed all your stored items, remove the lock and leave the unit door open and inform the office in-person, phone or email so we know it is empty. To qualify for prorated rent at move-out, notice must be received before the next full month’s payment is made. The unit must be broom clean, fully emptied, and unlocked. Billing stops when the unit is confirmed empty and unlocked. No refunds are issued after payment.

Is rent prorated when I move out?

Yes, in qualifying situations. Rent can be prorated at move-out if the required 15-day advance notice is given before the next full month’s payment is made. Once a payment has been made, refunds are not issued.

What happens if I leave items behind?

A unit is not considered properly vacated until all belongings are removed, the space is broom clean, and the lock has been removed. Leaving property behind may delay completion of the move-out and may cause billing to continue until the unit is confirmed empty. Additional disposal fees may be incurred as well. 

When does billing stop after move-out?

Billing stops when the unit is unlocked by the customer, broom swept, and confirmed empty by the facility after proper notice has been given and move-out requirements have been met.

Can I change units during my tenancy?

Yes, subject to availability and advance coordination with the office. The replacement unit must be rented first, then the original unit must be emptied so any remaining balance can be transferred appropriately.

What happens if I lose my lock keys or cannot open my lock?

If this were to occur contact your facilities storage expert to inquire about scheduling a lock cut with Atlantic Self Storage. Alternatively, you may schedule a certified locksmith for assistance. Lock-cut procedures may require proof of identity and account verification before access is granted.

Vehicle and Specialty Storage

Do you offer parking for the storage of RV, Boats, Cars, and Motorcycles?

Yes. Some locations offer storage (inside and outside) for RV’s, boats, cars, and motorcycles. Please call 1-877-WE-STORE to find the nearest Atlantic Self Storage in your area. Vehicle and specialty storage availability varies by location. Contact the specific property to confirm what types of spaces are available.

What information and documentation do I need to rent a vehicle space?

You need to bring one of the following at time of rental: state issued photo identification card, driver’s license, or passport. Also, you will need to provide a vehicle title or registration, in the name of the customer renting, that matches the name on the provided identification. Proof of current insurance is required as well. You will be required to provide your full legal name, social security number, and at least one alternate contact. A debit or major credit card will be placed on file for monthly billings. Vehicle documentation must match the renter’s identification and account details. This helps ensure that only properly documented vehicles are stored.

Can I store a vehicle that does not run?

No. Vehicles stored with Atlantic Self Storage must be in operable condition and must be driven onto the property and into the parking space or storage area under their own power.

Can I store a project motor home or non-operable vehicle?

No. Project vehicles, motor homes, or other non-running vehicles are not permitted because stored vehicles must be operable and capable of being moved under their own power.

Supplies, Community, and Other Questions

Can I buy boxes and other moving or packing supplies from Atlantic Self Storage?

Yes! We have a wide variety of packing and moving supplies available at each of our 58+ locations. Buying supplies on site can make move-in easier and allow you to get what you need without a separate trip.

Are you locally owned?

Yes! We’ve been locally owned and operated since 1979. Atlantic Self Storage is very grateful to have the opportunity to be actively involved in the local community. Check out our list of local partners and giving back efforts for more information. Atlantic Self Storage continues to position itself as a locally owned, community-involved company serving Northeast Florida.

Do you offer military discounts?

We are proud to support our active duty and retired military families by offering a discounted rate on all standard storage rates. Military customers should confirm current offer details and eligibility with the specific location at the time of rental.

What is an Admin Fee?

A one-time fee of $29.00 is applied at the start of each new rental. This fee helps to balance the administrative costs involved with completing the rental agreement packet. This is a one-time charge applied at move-in and is separate from monthly rent.

What is Smart Storage Services

A monthly fee ranging between $4.95 and $10.00 is applied at the time of invoice each month. This fee helps to balance the technology costs involved with conducting improvements throughout the company. This is a monthly charge and is separate from monthly rent.