You’re probably reading this because you just saw another one of those “FIRST MONTH FREE!” storage ads. And why wouldn’t you be tempted? Free is free, right?
Well, let me tell you a quick story. Last summer, my cousin Mike fell for one of these deals. Signed up online for a “free” 10×10 unit. Showed up on moving day and – surprise! – suddenly there’s a $95 “administrative fee,” a mandatory $12/month insurance charge, and oh yeah, that “free” unit? “Sorry, we’re all out of those – but we’ve got a smaller one available at the same price!”
Sound familiar?
I’ve worked in storage for over a decade, and I’m tired of seeing good people get tricked. So today, I’m breaking down exactly how these “free storage” scams work – and how to avoid them.
Why “Free” Storage is Never Actually Free?
Let’s cut through the BS. Storage facilities run these promotions for one reason: to get you in the door so they can upsell you. Here’s what really happens:
- The Bait-and-Switch
- Advertises a spacious 10×10 unit.
- “Oops, we just rented our last one!” when you arrive.
- Suddenly only 5×5 units are available… at the same price.
- The Fine Print Shakedown
- “Free first month!” (plus $89 “processing fee”).
- “No deposit!” (but $50 “non-refundable admin charge”).
- “Free lock!” (that you could buy at Home Depot for $8).
- The Long Game
- Lure you in with free rent.
- Jack up prices 300% in month two.
- Make cancellation a nightmare.
At Plaza Mini Storage, we don’t play these games. If we say “free,” we mean it – no hidden fees, no bait-and-switch.
5 Red Flags That Scream “Scam”
Watch out for these shady tactics:
- “Limited time offer!” pressure
(Translation: “We need you to sign before you read the contract”). - Vague answers about fees
You: “Are there any other charges?”
Them: “Just the standard small fees” (run away). - No physical address listed
(Probably a call center rep who’s never seen the actual facility). - Requires credit card just to “hold” the free unit
(Suddenly you’re getting charged for a unit you never used). - Google reviews mentioning “bait and switch”
(Always check reviews sorted by “lowest rating first”).
How to Actually Get a Good Deal?
After helping hundreds of customers avoid storage scams, here’s my cheat sheet:
- Always call and ask:
- “Is the exact unit in the ad available right now?”
- “What is the total out-the-door cost for the first month?”
- Visit in person before signing anything
- If they won’t show you the actual unit, walk away.
- Take photos of:
- The unit before moving in.
- The signed rental agreement.
- Any damage (so they can’t blame you later).
- Ask about:
- Price after the promo period.
- Cancellation policy.
- Exact fees (get them in writing).
What to Do If You Got Scammed?
Already stuck in a bad deal? Don’t panic:
- Check state laws – Many states require clear fee disclosures.
- Dispute bogus charges with your credit card company.
- Leave honest reviews everywhere – Google, Yelp, BBB.
- Report them to your state’s consumer protection office.
The Bottom Line
I’ll be straight with you – there are only two types of “free” storage offers:
- Legit ones from reputable companies (like ours) that are truly free with no strings.
- Scams designed to trick you into paying more later.
The difference? Honest companies will:
- Show you the actual unit first.
- Clearly explain all costs upfront.
- Let you walk away with no pressure.
At Plaza Mini Storage, we believe storage should be simple. No games. No surprises. Just fair prices and honest service.
Got burned by a storage scam? Share your story in the comments – let’s warn others. Looking for real, no-BS storage? We’ve got your back.
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