Frequently Asked Self Storage Questions

Find answers to common self storage unit questions here! Our team of storage experts has put together a great bit of information.

What size storage unit do I need?

The right size depends on what you're storing. A 5x10 works well for boxes, seasonal items, and furniture from a small room; a 10x10 can accommodate the contents of many one-bedroom homes. Larger units may suit entire households, vehicles, or business inventory. List your largest items and allow room for a walkway if you need regular access. Our team can help you choose.

What fits in a 5x10 storage unit?

A 5x10 provides about 50 square feet, comparable to a large walk-in closet. It can typically hold a mattress set, dresser, boxes, seasonal decorations, and small furniture, depending on arrangement. Measure unusually large items before renting.

What fits in a 10x10 storage unit?

A 10x10 provides about 100 square feet, similar to a small bedroom. It can often hold the contents of a one-bedroom apartment, including a bed, couch, dining furniture, appliances, and boxes. Capacity depends on item sizes, stacking, and whether you need a walkway.

How much does a storage unit cost in Alaska?

Prices vary by size, location, heating, and features. Heated units generally cost more than comparable unheated units. Eagle Eye offers storage in the Mat-Su Valley and Eagle River; check our website for current rates, availability, and promotions.

Can I rent a storage unit online without visiting the office?

Yes! Choose an available unit, complete your rental agreement, and pay online without visiting the office. Our managers are happy to help if you have questions.

Are storage units rented month-to-month?

Yes. Eagle Eye storage units are rented month-to-month, without a required long-term commitment. You can continue renting as needed, subject to your rental agreement.

Can I switch to a larger or smaller storage unit later?

Yes, you can generally transfer to another available unit. Contact your manager to discuss options, availability, and any differences in rent or fees.

How much notice do I need to give before moving out?

We request at least 10 days' notice before moving out. Contact the office for move-out instructions. Your unit must be fully emptied and the move-out completed under your agreement. Rent is not prorated at move-out.

Does Eagle Eye offer drive-up storage units?

Yes! Drive-up units let you park near the unit door for easier loading and unloading. They're convenient for furniture, heavy equipment, and business inventory. Availability varies by location and unit type.

Do I need a heated storage unit in Alaska?

Consider heated storage for belongings sensitive to freezing temperatures, such as certain electronics, furniture, and household items. Unheated storage can be a more affordable choice for cold-tolerant belongings.

What's the difference between heated and unheated storage?

Heated units use a heating system to help protect against extreme cold; unheated units follow seasonal temperatures more closely. Heated does not necessarily mean humidity-controlled.

What items should be stored in a heated storage unit?

Consider heated storage for temperature-sensitive electronics, wood furniture, musical instruments, and similar belongings. Follow each item's manufacturer's recommendations; heating doesn't eliminate moisture or packing risks.

What's the best way to store furniture in Alaska?

Clean and fully dry furniture first. Disassemble large pieces when practical, use moving blankets or breathable covers, and leave room for airflow. Consider heated storage for sensitive wood or leather items.

What's the best way to store electronics in a storage unit?

Back up important data, remove batteries where appropriate, and protect devices from dust, moisture, and impact. Follow manufacturer temperature guidance; let cold electronics warm up before powering on.

What's the best way to store a mattress in a storage unit?

Clean and completely dry your mattress, then use a properly fitted protective mattress cover. Mattress covers are available for purchase at Eagle Eye offices. For long-term storage, laying the mattress flat on a clean, elevated surface is generally best, especially for foam mattresses. Don't stack heavy items on top.

How do I prevent moisture and mold in a storage unit?

Store only clean, fully dry belongings. Keep moisture-sensitive items off damp surfaces and avoid tightly wrapping furniture in plastic. Moisture absorbers can help in some situations, but heated storage does not guarantee humidity control.

How secure are Eagle Eye storage units?

Our facilities feature individually alarmed units, security cameras, and controlled gate access. Customers help maintain security by using their assigned gate codes, locking units, and reporting suspicious activity. No facility can guarantee that theft or damage will never occur.

How do individually alarmed storage units work?

Entering with your assigned gate code registers your access so you can open your unit without triggering its alarm. Exiting with your code re-arms your unit, adding security beyond cameras and controlled gate access.

Why do I need to enter my gate code every time I enter and exit?

Your gate code also controls your unit's alarm. Enter your assigned code every time you enter AND exit, even if the gate is open. One entry per moving party is sufficient, though each vehicle may use the code. If someone leaves early and enters the exit code, the unit can re-arm while others are loading; closing, latching, and reopening the door can then trigger an alarm. Improper code use may result in a $50 false alarm fee. Never simply follow another vehicle through the gate.

What type of lock is best for a storage unit?

We recommend a quality disc lock, whose rounded design makes its shackle harder to access than many traditional padlocks. Eagle Eye sells disc locks for $15, compared with $22 or more at many local retailers. Using a disc lock also qualifies you for a $0 deductible under the tenant insurance we offer.

When can I access my storage unit?

Standard access hours are 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily. Optional 24/7 access may be available to approved customers; contact your manager during office hours.

Can I get 24-hour access to my storage unit?

Yes. Approved personal and business customers can request 24/7 access. There is a one-time $50 background-check fee, plus $25 per month beginning with the second month of the arrangement. Approval is required and may depend on location and intended use.

Can I get one-time overnight access to my storage unit?

Possibly. If you need access for a late flight, hunting or fishing trip, or early departure, contact the office during regular business hours BEFORE the planned visit to request a one-time exception. Approval is not guaranteed.

What happens if I forget my gate code?

Log in to your Eagle Eye customer portal to find your assigned gate code. If you can't access the portal, contact your facility manager. Don't borrow someone else's code or follow another vehicle through the gate.

Is tenant insurance required?

Yes. Eagle Eye requires at least $2,000 in coverage for stored belongings. We offer tenant insurance starting at $12 per month, with a $0 deductible when you use a disc lock. Claims under this separate policy won't affect your homeowners or renters insurance rates. You may use your own qualifying insurance, but you're responsible for adequate coverage and must submit proof within 14 days of renting to opt out of the policy we offer.

What does tenant insurance cover?

Eagle Eye offers tenant insurance through Bader to help protect belongings against covered losses. Coverage, limits, exclusions, and claim requirements depend on your plan. Our options start at $12 per month for $2,000 in coverage, with a $0 deductible when using a disc lock. Review the Bader brochure for full details and direct policy or claims questions to Bader: https://cdn.storagepug.com/hubfs/Client%20Website%20Images/LockTight%20Self%20Storage/pdfs/Bader-insurance-brochure.pdf

Does homeowners or renters insurance cover belongings in a storage unit?

Some homeowners and renters policies cover off-premises belongings, but limits and deductibles may differ. A large deductible can make a smaller claim impractical. Check with your insurer and compare your policy with Eagle Eye's tenant insurance options.

What items are not allowed in a storage unit?

Food, perishables, hazardous materials, explosives, standalone flammable liquids, and other items restricted by the rental agreement are prohibited. Ask the office if you're uncertain about an item.

Can I store food or perishable items in my storage unit?

No. Food, perishables, pet food, birdseed, and similar products are prohibited, even in sealed containers, because they can attract rodents and other pests.

Can I store gasoline, propane, or other flammable items?

No. Standalone gasoline, propane containers, flammable liquids, explosives, and hazardous materials are prohibited. An exception applies to fuel or propane contained in stored vehicles, campers, and RVs; these must be maintained and secured to prevent leaks.

Can I store gas-powered equipment in a storage unit?

Yes. Lawn mowers, snowblowers, chainsaws, generators, and similar equipment may be stored. Whenever practical, store equipment without fuel. Make sure fuel and oil caps are tightly sealed and take precautions against leaks. Place absorbent mats or cardboard underneath to catch drips and prevent concrete stains. Before storing lawn and garden equipment, remove grass clippings, leaves, dirt, seeds, and other organic debris. Keeping equipment clean helps reduce the risk of attracting rodents and other pests.

an I store firearms in a storage unit?

Yes. Firearms may be stored securely and in compliance with applicable laws. Ammunition must not be stored in the same unit as a firearm. Use appropriate locked cases and safe storage practices. Note that permission to store an item does not necessarily mean tenant insurance covers it.

Can you live or sleep in a storage unit?

No. Living, sleeping, or using a storage unit as a residence is strictly prohibited. Storage units are for belongings, not human occupancy.

What's the best way to pack a storage unit?

Place sturdy, heavy items on the bottom and lighter items on top. Use consistent box sizes, label boxes, keep frequently needed items near the front, and leave a walkway when possible. Protect furniture and keep moisture-sensitive belongings off the floor.

Should I use cardboard boxes or plastic totes in a storage unit?

Both work. Cardboard is economical and easy to label; plastic totes are reusable and can better resist incidental moisture and crushing. Always pack clean, dry items and avoid sealing damp belongings in airtight containers.

Can I store an RV, boat, trailer, or vehicle at Eagle Eye?

Yes! We offer storage options for RVs, boats, trailers, cars, and other recreational vehicles. Space sizes and features vary by location; check availability or ask the office.

Do I need to winterize my RV or boat before storing it in Alaska?

Evaluate winterization needs before freezing temperatures arrive. Water lines, tanks, pumps, engines, and other systems can be damaged by freezing. Follow manufacturer recommendations based on the vehicle and storage conditions; heated storage doesn't automatically eliminate winterization needs.

What should I do before storing a vehicle?

Clean the vehicle, remove food, check for leaks, and follow the manufacturer's long-term storage guidance. Depending on the vehicle, consider battery maintenance, fuel stabilization, tire protection, and winterizing plumbing.

What if I need an electrical outlet in my storage unit?

Most units don't have standard outlets, but we can often arrange installation subject to approval and your needs. Typical pricing is a $150 one-time installation fee, then $25 per month beginning with the second month; higher-use cases may cost more. Low-power applications are more likely to be approved than high-power uses. Contact the office to describe your intended equipment.

Can I use a storage unit for my business?

Yes. Businesses use our units for inventory, tools, equipment, documents, and supplies. Operating a business directly out of a unit may be restricted; contact the office to discuss your intended use.

Can I receive deliveries at my storage unit?

No, not as a standard service. For a one-time need, contact your office manager in advance to ask whether an exception is possible. Approval is not guaranteed.

Does Eagle Eye Secure Storage offer free moving van use? How does it work?

Yes! We offer four hours of FREE moving van use with select new storage unit rentals. Rent an eligible unit and reserve the van through the office. You'll need a valid driver's license, proof of auto insurance, and a credit card on file. Return the van with the required fuel level; extra mileage or time charges may apply. Details: https://www.eagleeyestorage.com/free-moving-van

How much does it cost to use Eagle Eye's moving van?

Our moving van is available at affordable rates to storage customers whose units don't qualify for the free-use promotion: four hours for $40 or a full day for $75. The first 25 miles are included; additional mileage costs $1 per mile. Return the van with the required fuel level to avoid refueling charges. Availability and terms apply. Details: https://www.eagleeyestorage.com/free-moving-van

Can I use the Eagle Eye moving van if I'm not renting a storage unit?

No. Moving van use is exclusively for Eagle Eye storage customers. Customers who don't qualify for free promotional use may still be eligible for affordable paid use.

Does Eagle Eye offer military discounts?

Yes! At Eagle River, qualifying active-duty service members and veterans receive 5% off monthly rent. At our Mat-Su Valley locations, we waive the setup fee and provide a free disc lock. If renting online, complete the rental and then contact the office; applicable benefits will be credited toward your second month's rent.

Does Eagle Eye offer autopay?

Yes. You can set up automatic rent payments with any debit or credit card through your customer account or with help from the office.

Your Questions, Answered

As Southwest Alaska's local self storage experts, we are happy to provide you with answers to our most frequently asked questions.

If you have questions that aren’t answered here, feel free to contact us directly!

We also provide a handy list of storage tips to help you store your items like a pro.

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