New to the world of self-storage? You’re not alone. From “drive-up access” to “freight elevator” and “administrative fees,” there’s a lot of jargon to unpack. But don’t worry—this beginner-friendly and professional guide breaks it all down so you can rent the right storage unit in Montreal with confidence.
Interior vs. Exterior Units
An interior unit is located inside a building, accessible via a hallway or elevator—perfect for protecting sensitive items.
An exterior unit is accessible from outside, great for quick loading without going indoors.
Drive-Up Units
With drive-up access, you can pull your car or truck right up to your unit. No stairs, no elevators—just easy loading and unloading.
Heated vs. Unheated Units
Heated units (also known as climate-controlled units) maintain a consistent temperature, ideal for furniture, documents, or electronics.
Unheated units are a more budget-friendly option, perfect for non-sensitive items.
Mini Lockers and XS to XL Units
Storage units come in all sizes. Mini lockers are great for small loads—just a few boxes or seasonal items. Larger units range from XS to XL, depending on how much you need to store.
Exterior Parking
Many facilities also offer exterior parking spaces for cars, trucks, RVs, or trailers—a great option if you need affordable vehicle storage.
Loading Dock & Freight Elevator
A loading dock allows easier unloading from larger moving trucks.
A freight elevator is designed for large or heavy items, getting them to your unit safely and efficiently.
Access Hours vs. Office Hours
Access hours refer to when you can visit your unit (often 7 days a week).
Office hours indicate when on-site staff is available for support or assistance.
Rent Online or Reserve Online
You can often reserve a unit online for free or go ahead and rent online with instant payment. It’s fast, secure, and convenient.
Walk-In Customers Welcome
Prefer to talk in person? Walk-in clients are welcome during business hours—no appointment needed.
Lease Signage & Identity Verification
You’ll sign a lease to confirm your rental. Expect identity verification with a valid ID—this helps ensure the security of your unit.
Move-In Date
Choose your move-in date based on your availability. Most facilities let you book in advance to secure your spot.
Administrative Fees
An administrative fee is usually charged during sign-up to cover the cost of setting up your account.
Late Fees & Collections
Missed a payment? Late fees apply after the due date. Continued non-payment may result in the unit being sent to collections as outlined in your lease agreement.
Whether you’re a student, business owner, or just decluttering your home, understanding storage terms will help you choose the best solution—without any surprises. At Montreal Mini-Storage, we make the process simple, secure, and stress-free.