Choosing a Lock for Your Storage Unit

Choosing the right lock is an important part of renting a self-storage unit. While no lock can guarantee that a storage unit will never be accessed without permission, a quality lock that fits the unit’s locking mechanism properly is an important part of securing your unit.

With several types of storage locks available, it helps to understand the differences before choosing one.

Choose a Lock Designed for Self-Storage

Not every lock is equally well suited for a storage unit.

The lock should fit the storage unit’s latch or locking mechanism correctly without interfering with the operation of the door. It should also be appropriate for the conditions where it will be used.

Before purchasing a lock, check the size and type of locking mechanism on your storage unit. If you’re unsure, ask the facility staff what types of locks will fit.

Keyed Padlocks

Traditional keyed padlocks are familiar and easy to use. They are available in many sizes, materials and designs.

If you choose a keyed lock, keep your spare key in a secure location rather than inside the storage unit. You may also want to consider who else should have a key if another person needs access to your belongings.

Combination Locks

Combination locks eliminate the need to carry a key, which can be convenient for some customers.

If you use a combination lock, choose a quality lock designed for the intended application and keep the combination somewhere secure. Be careful about sharing the combination with others who do not need access to your unit.

Disc Locks

Disc-style locks are commonly used for self-storage. Their design exposes less of the shackle than many traditional padlocks, and they are designed to work with many storage-unit locking mechanisms.

However, storage-unit doors and latches vary, so make sure a particular disc lock will fit your unit before purchasing it.

Avoid Choosing a Lock Based Only on Price

Price alone doesn’t determine whether a lock is appropriate for your storage unit.

Instead, consider the construction of the lock, how well it fits the locking mechanism, whether it is intended for the environment where it will be used and whether you can operate it reliably.

A very inexpensive lock that doesn’t fit properly isn’t a bargain.

Check Your Lock Periodically

Once your belongings are in storage, check your lock when you visit your unit. Make sure it closes and opens properly and look for signs of damage or deterioration.

If a lock becomes difficult to operate, follow the manufacturer’s maintenance instructions. If it is damaged or no longer operates reliably, consider replacing it.

Keep Track of Who Has Access

If you give a key or combination to a family member, employee, mover or anyone else, remember that they will continue to have access unless you retrieve the key, change the combination or replace the lock.

If a key is lost or you are uncertain who may have access, replacing the lock may be appropriate.

Storage Unit Locks at Texas Maxi-Mini

Texas Maxi-Mini Self Storage offers climate-controlled and non-climate storage units in North Central San Antonio, along with outdoor parking for cars, trailers and boats.

If you’re unsure which type or size of lock works with your storage unit, ask our staff. We can help you determine what fits the unit’s locking mechanism before you purchase a lock.