"Self storage" is short for "self-service storage", and is also known as mini storage. Public Self storage facilities lease space to individuals, usually storing household goods, or to small businesses, usually storing excess inventory or archived records. The rented spaces, are "units" ("rooms" or "lockers"), usually secured by the tenant's own lock and key. Generally, facility operators do not have casual access to the contents of the space, unlike a professional warehouseman.

In most instances, a self storage operator never takes possession, care, custody or control of the contents of the storage rental space unless a lien is imposed for non-payment of rent. Self storage facility operators frequently provide controlled access to rental space areas, individual door alarms, interior units lights, and security cameras. Generally, goods or items stored are not insured by the self storage operator; they are stored at the tenant's "own risk" or protected by tenant-purchased insurance.

There can be many reasons private people and businesses need to store goods away to be used at a later time. Sometimes when moving your household goods may need to be stored temporarily. This may be due to timing and not having located a permanent home in your new city and you may need to store your belongings for a few weeks as you find a new home. You may decide to do some remodeling or build an entirely new home and you will need to have your furnishings out of the way while this is going on and storage is an obvious choice.[...]