Storage Solutions
Storage Units vs. Storage Lockers: What’s the Difference?
March 21, 2025
If you are decluttering, downsizing, moving, or going through a transition, self-storage offers flexibility and peace of mind without having to sell or donate items you need and love. However, it’s important to decide between a storage locker vs. storage unit based on how much you need to store, the size of your items, and other factors.
Here’s a quick comparison between Stop & Stor lockers and units before we dive into the pros and cons of each option.
What Is a Storage Unit?
A storage unit is a full-height storage solution that is typically eight feet tall but always more than six feet tall. Storage units come in a wide range of sizes and can be used for various purposes.
Common storage unit sizes are 5x5, 10x10, 10x20, and 10x30. Storage units come with many features and amenities, such as drive-up access, climate control, and 24/7 security.
In our storage size guide, we provide details about our small, medium, and large units.
Pros & Cons of Storage Units
Here are the top considerations to keep in mind if you are thinking about renting a storage unit:
Pros:
- Many different sizes are available
- Drive-up access
- First-floor options
- Able to store large items like furniture, appliances, and vehicles
- Climate-controlled options available
Cons:
- More expensive than storage lockers
- Can be challenging to organize without advance planning or shelving
- Possibly not necessary for small storage needs
When to Use a Storage Unit
You might rent a storage unit for many reasons, such as to store furniture, appliances, or the contents of an entire household. It is also possible to store vehicles in a storage unit, including RVs, cars, motorcycles, and boats.
Meanwhile, other people use storage units for their business inventories or as their companies move through different transitions. If you are moving or downsizing, you might consider a unit for your long-term storage needs.
What Is a Storage Locker?
Storage lockers are limited-height units that are less than six feet tall. They are usually four or five feet in height. These small-sized options generally come with a lower cost than full-size storage units.
Common sizes of storage lockers are between nine and 36 square feet. Our 5x5x4 lockers can fit about as much inside as a small closet. Despite the limited height and space considerations, small locker storage is an excellent option for people with only minor storage needs or who need extra space on a budget.
Pros & Cons of Storage Lockers
As you learn about locker storage and unit storage, weigh these pros and cons:
Pros:
- Lower cost than storage units
- Ideal for small personal storage needs
- Easier to keep organized due to space constraints
Cons:
- Size and height limit what you can store inside
- Access is often stacked or requires rolling stairs
- Less common offering at many storage facilities
When to Use a Storage Locker
Locker self-storage is useful when you need only small personal belongings, such as paperwork, collectibles, and seasonal gear. Lockers are an excellent temporary storage solution for students and apartment dwellers who are experiencing transitions and do not have extensive storage needs.
Meanwhile, anyone needing storage on a budget or for short-term needs can benefit from renting one of our storage lockers in New York.
How to Choose Between a Storage Unit and a Storage Locker
Deciding between a storage unit or lockers for storage involves accessing your size needs and figuring out if you need space for large items or just small belongings. Next, look at your budget because lockers are cheaper, but units offer greater flexibility.
Access and convenience are also important when renting a storage locker or unit. Would you prefer a drive-up option on the first floor, or would a stacked locker be sufficient for your needs?
Another consideration is how long you expect to need self-storage. A locker may provide a short-term solution, but a unit works better for long-term planning.
Rent a Storage Locker or Unit with Us
Hopefully, you’ve found this discussion of “What is a storage unit?” and “What is a storage locker?” helpful as you assess your personal storage needs.
At Stop & Stor, we are pleased to offer a variety of storage unit options and lockers across our convenient New York locations.
Please contact us at 718-898-8000 to confirm storage locker vs. storage unit availability and pricing.
You can also sign up to get on our priority waitlist to secure the ideal storage solution for your needs. Since our inventory changes daily, our waitlist is an excellent way to stay informed about unit and locker availability with no obligation to rent or reserve with a credit card.
Established in 1980, Stop & Stor is a family owned and operated business that has become New York’s Self Storage Leader by offering cutting-edge facilities in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island.
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