Locks for Storage Units: What is the best lock for my storage unit?

When it comes to protecting your belongings in a storage unit, a reliable and high-quality lock is your first and most important line of defense. Storage facilities often provide a range of security measures such as surveillance cameras, electronic gates, and security personnel. However, these systems can only do so much if your individual unit is not adequately secured with a strong lock. Unfortunately, break-ins and tampering are common issues faced by storage unit renters, making it crucial to invest in a lock that can withstand various threats.

Many people mistakenly believe that the mere presence of security cameras or an access gate is enough to deter theft, but experienced thieves can bypass such measures. The right lock will not only physically prevent access, but also act as a psychological deterrent to would-be intruders. Moreover, even if your storage unit is located in a facility with top-notch security, you should never overlook the importance of securing your unit with the best possible lock.

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Having a good lock will give you peace of mind that the items in your storage unit are safe. With such a wide variety of locks on the market, it is hard to choose which is the best lock for your storage unit. Even though the majority of storage facilities have security measures like gates, fences, and security cameras, if you have a low quality lock you are leaving yourself vulnerable. If you are renting a self-storage unit in Scarborough, Mississauga, or Etobicoke, the first thing you should do before moving your items into your unit is get a high-quality lock.

This guide will walk you through the essential considerations when choosing a lock, the various types * available for storage units, and tips for ensuring your unit stays secure. Whether you’re storing personal belongings or business equipment, the safety of your items depends on the strength and reliability of your lock.

Importance of Choosing the Right Lock

Choosing the right lock for your storage unit is critical, and failing to do so can lead to significant security risks. Thieves often target storage units because they perceive them as easy pickings — after all, they assume there is no one constantly monitoring the unit. If your lock is weak or easy to manipulate, your storage unit could be an attractive target for burglars.

Security Risks of Low-Quality Locks

Many low-quality locks are vulnerable to common break-in techniques, such as lock-picking, bolt cutter attacks, and even simple forceful entry. For example, a standard padlock can often be cut with bolt cutters in a matter of seconds, leaving your belongings completely exposed. Similarly, combination locks, which are commonly used in gym lockers and school settings, can often be picked or guessed relatively easily.

While these locks may seem adequate for low-risk environments, they are not suitable for securing valuable or sentimental items in a storage unit. A low-quality lock can be as bad as leaving your unit unlocked altogether, especially if it fails to deter thieves who are specifically targeting storage facilities.

Consequences of Choosing the Wrong Lock

Using the wrong type of lock can result in devastating consequences, particularly if you are storing valuable or irreplaceable items. A break-in could lead to financial losses, emotional distress, and a lengthy insurance claim process. Moreover, it’s worth considering that some storage facilities may not cover theft or damage if the unit was secured with a subpar lock. By choosing the wrong lock, you not only expose your items to theft but also potentially void any protection your storage facility’s insurance policy might offer.

For example, imagine storing precious family heirlooms in a unit, only to find out that they’ve been stolen due to the use of a cheap combination lock. The financial cost may be recoverable, but the sentimental loss is often irreplaceable.

Situations That Require Specific Lock Types

Different situations call for different types of locks. For instance, if you’re using an outdoor storage unit, you need to consider factors like weather, corrosion, and visibility. Outdoor units are more susceptible to tampering, and the locks used for these units need to be weatherproof and tamper-resistant. On the other hand, indoor storage units, especially those located in climate-controlled facilities, may not face the same environmental challenges, but you still need a secure lock to prevent unauthorized access.

Types of Locks for Storage Units

The lock market offers a wide range of options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Below, we’ll explore the most common types of locks used for storage units, along with their pros, cons, security levels, and price ranges.

Combination and dial locks 

These are the types of locks that you would typically see used on gym lockers. They have either a 3 digit pin combination or a dial that has a 4 or 5 digit pin. There are even some of these locks that have a directional pad where you input a sequence of directions to unlock it. 

Regardless of the locking mechanism, these locks are probably your worst option. They are the cheapest and most readily available of all the locks on this list, but they also offer the least security. The pins on these types of locks are easily cracked and for some very cheap versions they can be forced open by hand. 

These might work well for school lockers or at the gym, but for a storage unit you’ll want to go with something more substantial.

Pros:

• No need to worry about losing a key
• Inexpensive and widely available
• Can be easily reset if you forget the combination

Cons:

• Vulnerable to lock-picking and brute force attacks
• Generally not as secure as keyed locks
• Can be time-consuming to open and close

Security Level: Low

Price Range: $5–$15

Best Use: Indoor units or low-risk, short-term storage situations.

Chain locks or bike locks

Certain bicycle locks can be very secure and hard to break into, but issues arise with the length of the chain. Most bike locks have their locking mechanism linked to a chain. This is is great when you have to lock your bike up somewhere, and you need flexibility, but if you use one of these bike locks for a storage unit, it makes it very difficult to lock the storage unit door tightly. 

If the chain is very long, it can be hard to close the storage unit door completely and someone could force the door up and squeeze their way in. Even though bike locks provide a good deal of security they don’t work effectively at locking up storage units. 

Pros:

• Flexible design can secure oddly shaped objects
• Some models are made from hardened steel, which is difficult to cut
• Easily portable and can be used for other purposes

Cons:

• Impractical for securing storage unit doors
• Heavy and cumbersome to use
• Chain links may be vulnerable to cutting or tampering

Security Level: Moderate (depending on the quality of the chain and padlock)

Price Range: $10–$30

Best Use: Securing items within the unit or for securing objects like bicycles, but not for primary unit security.

Padlocks with key access

These are the most common and most widely used locks for self storage units. You can get these padlocks anywhere for relatively cheap. However, you will have to keep track of your key, some storage facilities might be willing to keep your key for you but the vast majority will not. If you come all the way to the storage facility having forgotten your key, there’s nothing you can do. The same goes if you lose your key. 

These locks provide great security, as they are difficult to pick, cut or break. Famously, Master Lock claimed that their padlocks could withstand a sniper rifle shot and still be functional. Your average padlock might not be able to withstand that kind of firepower, but it is a good option for securing your self storage unit. 

Pros:

• Durable and reliable for general security purposes
• Available in various sizes to fit different needs
• Relatively inexpensive and easy to replace

Cons:

• Keys can be lost or stolen, leaving you locked out of your unit
• Some models are vulnerable to bolt cutter attacks
• Lower-end models may not offer sufficient security for high-value items

Security Level: Moderate to high, depending on the quality of the padlock

Price Range: $10–$25

Best Use: Indoor storage units or outdoor units with moderate security needs.

Disc Lock with key access

A step up from padlocks, the discus lock is just that, a lock the shape of a disc. This kind of lock was specially designed for storage units and is the gold standard for self storage security. This is the kind of lock that Storwell supplies to our customers with every rental. In fact, Storwell believes so strongly in the security of the disc lock, that we only allow disc locks to be used at our facilities.

The main advantage to disc locks is that due to their shape they can’t be cut off using bolt cutters. This is both a good and bad thing. It’s good because it provides you with extra security, but it’s a bad thing if you lose your key. 

Disc locks are hard to open without a key. You’ll most likely need to call a professional to either pick the lock or grind it off which could cost you a decent amount of money. Disc locks are more expensive than regular padlocks, but the security they provide and their weatherproof design makes them incredibly effective. If you are looking for absolute security for your storage unit, they are the way to go. 

Pros:

• Highly resistant to tampering and bolt cutter attacks
• Weatherproof and durable, making them ideal for outdoor use
• Designed specifically for storage unit security

Cons:

• More expensive than other lock types
• Can be difficult to remove without the key
• Not as widely available as standard padlocks

Security Level: High

Price Range: $20–$50

Best Use: Outdoor or high-value storage units where security is a top priority.

Bluetooth locks

For the tech-loving storage owner, Bluetooth locks might be something to consider. Still a new technology, these are locks that can connect to your Smartphone via Bluetooth eliminating the need for keys or combinations. 

Although Bluetooth locks are convenient, if you have Bluetooth capabilities on a weak lock that will still be a weak lock. You can get high quality Bluetooth disc locks that combine convenience and security, but they will be very expensive. 

There are a few things to consider with Bluetooth locks. If your lock is going to be on an outside unit and exposed to the elements, it could damage the technology in the lock, meaning you won’t be able to unlock it. If someone gets access to your phone that means they’ll also have access to your storage unit. Unlike mechanical locks that can only be opened with a key or by destroying them, Bluetooth locks can be hacked. This means that someone could hack your Bluetooth lock, gain access to your storage unit, and lock it again without you knowing.

Pros:

• No need for a key, reducing the risk of being locked out
• Convenient remote access via a smartphone app
• Some models offer additional features like activity tracking

Cons:

• Expensive compared to traditional locks
• Vulnerable to hacking or technical malfunctions
• Dependent on battery life and smartphone functionality

Security Level: High (with potential vulnerabilities related to technology)

Price Range: $50–$150

Best Use: Tech-savvy users or those needing shared access without relying on physical keys.

Overall what is the safest lock for my storage unit?

The lock that works best for self-storage unit security is the disc lock, hands down. If you want to go with a slightly cheaper option a high quality padlock can provide ample protection as well. When it comes to Bluetooth locks, they are a fascinating new technology but the convenience they provide does not make them worth their hefty price tag and possible security limitations.

Security Tips for Locking Storage Units

Even the best lock won’t protect your belongings if it’s not used correctly. Here are some tips to ensure your storage unit remains secure:

Ensure the Lock is Properly Secured

Always double-check that your lock is fully engaged and secure after locking your unit. A common mistake is leaving the lock partially open, which can make it easier for thieves to tamper with.

Avoid Common Mistakes

• Not locking the hasp properly: Make sure the hasp is aligned correctly, and the lock fully clicks into place.
• Using the wrong type of lock: Avoid using locks designed for other purposes (like chain or bike locks) on storage units, as they are not designed to secure unit doors.
• Leaving spare keys in obvious places: Don’t leave spare keys under mats, in cars, or other easily accessible areas where thieves can find them.

Regularly Check and Maintain Your Lock

Locks, especially those used outdoors, require regular maintenance to ensure they function correctly over time. Apply a silicone-based lubricant to moving parts to prevent rust, and check periodically to ensure the lock hasn’t been tampered with or damaged by the elements.

Outdoor vs. Indoor Storage Unit Locks

The location of your storage unit plays a significant role in the type of lock you should choose. Outdoor units are exposed to weather conditions and may require different locks than those used for indoor units.

Outdoor Storage Units

Outdoor storage units are more vulnerable to theft and environmental damage, such as rust or corrosion. In these cases, you should choose a weatherproof lock made from materials like stainless steel. Disc locks and heavy-duty padlocks are often the best choice for outdoor units, as they offer high resistance to tampering and bolt cutters.

Indoor Storage Units

While indoor storage units are generally more secure due to their location within a facility, they are still at risk of theft. For indoor units, a high-quality padlock or disc lock is recommended. Since these units are protected from the weather, you don’t need to worry as much about corrosion or rust, but choosing a lock that offers good security is still important.

FAQs

Do I need my own lock for a storage unit?

Yes, for most storage facilities you need to provide your own lock to secure your unit. There are certain storage facilities that are willing to keep an extra key for your lock onsite in case you ever lose or misplace your key; however, this varies from facility to facility so make sure to check with the storage facility staff. Storwell Self Storage provides a high-quality disk lock to each customer that rents a self-storage unit.

How do I secure my storage unit?

The best way to secure your storage unit is to ensure that your lock is locked properly each time that you leave your unit. People will often quickly close their unit and put the lock on the door without taking the time to check that the lock is fully engaged. Having a high-quality lock is ineffective when it is not used properly.

What kind of lock do you put on a storage unit?

The lock that works best for self-storage unit security is the disc lock because of its durability and security. If you want to go with a slightly cheaper option a high-quality padlock can provide ample protection as well.

What is the best lock for an outdoor storage unit?

When considering what type of lock to get for an outdoor storage unit, you must keep in mind that the lock will be exposed to the elements all year long, so durability is of the upmost importance. Disc locks and padlocks both have a high level of durability and would work well for any outdoor self-storage unit.

What is the best padlock for a storage facility?

If you decide to go with a padlock to secure your self-storage unit, the best padlock to go with is the Master Lock padlock. This is one of the most durable padlocks on the market and is also very easily accessible.