Frequently Asked Questions

What is self storage and how does it work?

Self storage provides additional space for household belongings, business inventory, equipment, documents, furniture, and other approved items. You rent a private storage unit on a month-to-month basis and may access it during the facility's posted access hours.

How do your introductory rate plans work?

CSI Mini Storage offers 3-month and 6-month introductory rate plans on most storage unit sizes. Before your reservation is confirmed, you can review both the introductory monthly rate and the regular monthly rate that will apply after the introductory period.

After your selected 3-month or 6-month introductory period ends, your monthly rent changes to the regular monthly rate shown for your selected unit and rate plan when your reservation is confirmed. That regular rate is guaranteed through the end of month 12.

The 3-month plan generally offers the lowest introductory monthly rate. The 6-month plan provides a discounted rate for a longer introductory period. Rentals remain month to month, so neither plan requires a one-year lease.

If you continue storing beyond month 12 and your rate changes, the new monthly rate will not exceed 9% above the rate in effect at the end of month 12. That new rate will remain fixed through the end of month 24.

Do you have a referral program?

Yes. Current tenants may receive a $50 rent credit when they refer a new tenant who completes a qualifying rental. The credit is applied to the referring tenant's account. Please contact the rental office for current program terms and eligibility requirements.

How does your free scheduled pickup and move-in service work?

Eligible new customers may receive free scheduled pickup and move-in assistance, including a CSI truck and two professional movers who can help load approved belongings at the pickup location and unload them into the storage unit.

Eligibility depends on the pickup location, selected unit, items being moved, service schedule, and truck availability. Advance scheduling is required. Please contact the Alameda rental office before reserving to confirm whether your move qualifies and what services are included.

How should I choose which storage unit to rent?

Use our online size guide to compare common storage unit sizes and determine which option may best fit your belongings. If you need additional assistance, please contact the rental office and a staff member can help you select an appropriate size.

Can I reserve my storage unit online?

Yes. You can submit an online reservation request at any time. Submitting a request does not complete the rental. A member of our rental team may contact you to confirm unit availability, the selected rate plan, and any remaining rental steps.

Can I pay my storage rent online?

Yes. You can access your online account from a computer or mobile device to make a payment at your convenience.

How can I set up automatic payments?

You can set up automatic payments through your online account or by visiting the rental office. For your security, automatic payments cannot be established or cancelled over the telephone.

Can I buy packing supplies and moving boxes?

Moving boxes, locks, and selected packing supplies are normally available for purchase during rental office hours. Available products may include tape, mattress and chair covers, plastic bags, tarps, and moisture-absorber products. Please contact the rental office to confirm current inventory before visiting.

Is there a minimum rental term, or can I rent month to month?

Storage units are rented on a month-to-month basis. The minimum rental term is one month. The 3-month and 6-month introductory rate plans determine how long the introductory price applies; they do not require you to sign a long-term lease.

Do you require tenant insurance?

CSI Mini Storage does not require you to purchase tenant insurance as a condition of renting a storage unit. Optional coverage may be available. You may also wish to ask your homeowners or renters insurance provider whether your policy covers belongings stored away from your residence.

Do you charge a move-in administrative fee or security deposit?

No. CSI Mini Storage does not charge a move-in administrative fee or security deposit when you rent a storage unit. Other charges may apply in specific circumstances, such as late-payment, returned-payment, lock, or cleanup charges, as described in your rental agreement.

What items are not allowed in a storage unit?

Illegal, hazardous, toxic, flammable, explosive, or environmentally dangerous materials are prohibited. Food, perishable goods, and other items that may attract rodents or pests are also prohibited. Customers may not live, sleep, or conduct residential activities inside a storage unit.

Cars, motorcycles, other motor vehicles, tires, fuel, oil, and automotive parts are not permitted in storage units. Additional restrictions are listed in the rental agreement. Please contact the rental office before storing an item if you are uncertain whether it is allowed.

What security features does the facility provide?

The facility has electronically controlled access gates that require each tenant's assigned access code. The property also has surveillance cameras, nighttime lighting, and security patrols conducted during the day and at night.

These measures are intended to help deter unauthorized activity but do not guarantee against theft, loss, or damage. Tenants should properly lock their units and should not store prohibited, irreplaceable, or extremely valuable items.

What is your cancellation and move-out policy?

Storage rentals are month to month. We require at least seven days' advance written notice before your planned move-out date. Please contact the rental office for move-out instructions and review your rental agreement for any additional requirements.

How do I update my payment card, email address, mailing address, or gate access code?

You can update eligible account information through your online account or by visiting the rental office. For your security, payment-card information cannot be updated over the telephone. Contact the rental office if you need assistance changing your gate access code.

Is the facility closed on major holidays?

The rental office and storage yard are closed on New Year's Day, Easter Sunday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, the day after Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day. Holiday hours and closures may change, so please contact the rental office or review current facility notices before visiting.

Can I drive up to my storage unit?

Yes. Every storage unit at the Alameda facility offers ground-floor drive-up access, allowing you to park near your unit and move belongings without using stairs or elevators. Vehicle access remains subject to posted facility, vehicle-size, and safety rules.

Can I store a car or motorcycle in my storage unit?

No. Cars, motorcycles, and other motor vehicles are not permitted inside storage units at this facility. Tires, fuel, oil, and automotive parts are also prohibited.