Choosing The Right Lock For Your Storage Unit

When it comes to storing your belongings in a self-storage unit, you want to be sure that everything is safe and sound. At EZ Storage®, we strive to provide you with that peace of mind by offering units in a well-lit, secure facility that has a fenced perimeter, computer-controlled gate, and individual door alarms. 

However, there’s something about the satisfaction of putting a lock on the unit door that helps you rest easy at night. It’s comforting to know that your things are behind a solid, locked door and you’re the only one who can access them. It’s important to choose the right lock for your storage unit, and in this post, we’ll look at several options.

The Importance of Having a Lock For Storage

Having a lock for your personal self-storage unit, your business self-storage unit, or a climate-controlled storage unit is important. But why exactly is it so important? For starters, putting a lock on your storage unit will provide you with peace of mind knowing your items are completely safe. A lock can also provide a strong deterrence against theft because most thieves won’t put in the time or effort to break or pick a lock.

Padlock

The standard padlock can be a good choice, simply because it only requires a key to open, letting you access your storage unit quickly. There are pins inside the cylinder that are set to a specific position, and only the key that came with the lock can open it. However, these aren’t always the best choice for self-storage, as some models can be easily broken or picked. Our storage staff always keeps an eye on things, and our 24-hour surveillance will show if anyone is messing with your padlock, but you may want to go with a stronger and more reliable choice.

Combination Lock 

Some people choose combination locks because they don’t want to worry about losing or misplacing a key. You might like the idea of having a unique code or number sequence that lets you lock and open your storage unit, but you also have to keep in mind that you may forget the code or sequence, or someone else may guess the combination. Standard combination locks, like the ones you see on school and gym lockers, are not good choices for self-storage units. If you want to use a keyless lock, our staff will gladly recommend the best choice.

Cylinder Lock

Cylinder locks are the lock mechanisms used in common doors — for instance, you probably have one in the front door of your home. External cylinder locks can also be purchased, and they’re often a secure option because there are no bars a thief could cut. However, they can sometimes be challenging to fit on a typical storage unit door. If you’re planning on using a cylinder lock on your storage unit, make sure it will fit before purchasing. 

Digital Lock 

Digital locks are typically controlled via your smartphone and often use technology like Bluetooth. The benefits of these locks are that you can monitor the status of the lock from anywhere, and you won’t have to worry about forgetting a key. Of course, if you forget your phone or your phone dies, you won’t have easy access to your storage unit. Additionally, some digital locks are somewhat flimsy and can be breached with bolt cutters. However, you can certainly find strong digital locks, including digital disk locks.

Disc Lock

Disc locks are very common in the storage industry, and they were actually developed for self-storage units. The design of these locks, with their unique “U-shaped” hasp, can’t be cut or broken easily. Disc locks do require a key, and there are different sizes for different-size unit door latches. Our team members will help you find the disc lock that works for your needs.

Make Sure Locks Are Weatherproof

Once you’ve decided on a lock, it’s important to check that it’s rated for indoor or outdoor use — or both. The majority of our units at EZ Storage® are indoors, meaning the lock you choose won’t be exposed to wind and weather.

If you choose an outdoor unit, you’ll want to make sure your lock can withstand the elements because moisture and temperature fluctuations can compromise the lock’s integrity. Stainless steel is often the best option for outdoor storage locks, and again, our staff will gladly help you find the best choice.

 

Storage Unit Lock FAQs

If you still have questions about storage unit locks, we’ve brought together answers to a few frequently asked questions below. 

What Is The Best Lock For a Storage Unit?

Disc locks are a popular choice for securing storage units. They’ve been specially designed with self-storage units in mind. In particular, the shape of a disc lock makes the hasp, the most vulnerable part of the lock, hard to access. 

Is There an Unbreakable Lock?

Unfortunately, there isn’t an absolutely unbreakable lock. However, there are plenty of locks on the marketplace that are essentially unbreakable, meaning it would be extremely unlikely a common burglar or thief would have the resources to break them. For the purposes of locking up your storage unit, these can be a great solution. 

Which is More Secure, Combination or Key Lock?

Because a combination lock is more susceptible to shimming, and since a thief can’t open a key lock unless they have the key, key locks are generally considered more secure.