Major storage chains that accept online payments
Most large storage companies now offer online payment options, though the method and ease vary. Public Storage, CubeSmart, Life Storage, and Extra Space Storage all let you pay through their websites or mobile apps using a debit card, credit card, or bank account. U-Haul (which operates U-Box and traditional storage) accepts online payments on their site. Stor-It and SecureSpace also have online payment portals for existing renters.
The catch is that online payment availability depends partly on which location you rent from. A Public Storage facility in one city may have a fully functional online portal, while another Public Storage location might require you to call or visit in person. Before you sign a lease, ask the specific facility whether they process payments online and through which system — their own website, a third-party portal, or both.
Regional and independent storage operators vary widely. Some use payment platforms like Stripe or PayPal built into their websites; others still rely on phone payments or checks. If online payment matters to you, confirm the payment method in writing before you move in, because switching facilities mid-lease is expensive.
Key Takeaways
- Public Storage, CubeSmart, Life Storage, Extra Space Storage, and U-Haul all offer online payment options through their websites or apps, though availability varies by location.
- Even within the same chain, one facility may accept online payments while another location does not, so you must check with your specific storage unit before signing.
- Regional and independent storage operators often use third-party payment platforms like Stripe or PayPal, or may still require phone or check payments.
- Ask about payment methods in writing during the rental agreement process so you know exactly how you will pay each month.
How to find the payment method for your facility
Start by visiting the website of the storage company where you rent or plan to rent. Look for a "Pay My Bill" or "Make a Payment" link, usually in the top navigation or footer. Enter your unit number and last name; if the system recognizes you, it will show you the payment options available at that location.
If the website does not have an online payment portal, call the facility directly and ask which payment methods they accept. Write down the answer and ask them to confirm it in an email or note on your account. This protects you if a staff member later tells you something different.
For facilities that do offer online payment, check whether they charge a convenience fee. Some storage companies absorb the fee themselves; others pass a 2 to 3 percent charge to you if you pay by credit card. Bank account payments usually have no fee. Factor this into your decision if you plan to pay by card every month.
Payment methods accepted at major chains
| Company | Online Payment Available | Accepted Methods | Convenience Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Public Storage | Yes, at most locations | Debit card, credit card, bank account | Usually none for bank account; card fees vary by location |
| CubeSmart | Yes | Credit card, debit card, bank account | None for bank account; 2.5% for cards |
| Life Storage | Yes | Credit card, debit card, bank account | Varies by location |
| Extra Space Storage | Yes | Credit card, debit card, bank account | None for bank account; 2.5% for cards |
| U-Haul | Yes | Credit card, debit card | None |
| Regional/independent operators | Varies | Depends on facility; often Stripe or PayPal | Varies |
Setting up automatic payments online
Most storage companies that offer online payment also let you set up automatic monthly payments so you do not have to log in each month. This is usually called "autopay" or "recurring payment" on their website. To set it up, log into your account, find the autopay option, choose your payment method, and select the date you want the payment to come out each month.
Automatic payments reduce the risk of late fees because the payment goes through on schedule, even if you forget. However, make sure you have enough money in your account or available credit on the date the payment is due. If a payment fails, the storage company will typically charge a late fee and may send you a notice.
You can usually pause or cancel autopay anytime through your online account, or by calling the facility. If you plan to move out, turn off autopay at least a week before your lease ends so you do not get charged for an extra month.
What to do if your facility does not offer online payment
If your storage facility does not have an online payment option, you have several alternatives. You can pay by phone using a debit card or credit card — the facility will charge your card over the phone, usually with a small fee. You can also mail a check to the facility's address, though this takes longer and you lose the ability to track when the payment arrives.
Some facilities accept payments through third-party services like Venmo, PayPal, or Square Cash if the manager has set up a personal account. Ask your facility manager whether they use any of these services. This is less formal than a company-wide system, so confirm the payment address or account name in writing before you send money.
If online payment is important to you and your current facility does not offer it, consider switching to a competitor that does. The cost of moving is often worth it if you value the convenience and security of online payments, especially if you travel frequently or prefer not to handle checks.
Security and fraud protection for online storage payments
When you pay a storage facility online, your payment goes through the same encrypted systems that banks and credit card companies use. Look for "https://" at the start of the website address and a padlock icon in your browser — these indicate the connection is find. Never enter your payment information on a website that does not show these signs.
If you pay by credit card, you have fraud protection under federal law: if someone uses your card without permission, you can dispute the charge and the card company will investigate. If you pay by debit card or bank account, your protection is weaker, so use a credit card when possible for online storage payments.
Check your credit card and bank statements monthly to make sure the storage payment is the correct amount. If you see a charge you did not authorize, contact your bank or card company when ready. Also watch for duplicate charges if you set up autopay — occasionally a payment will process twice if there is a system glitch.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I pay my storage unit bill with a credit card online?
Yes, most major storage chains accept credit card payments online through their websites or apps. Some charge a 2 to 3 percent convenience fee for credit card payments, while bank account payments usually have no fee. Check your specific facility's website to see which payment methods they accept and whether fees explore.
What happens if my online payment fails?
If your payment fails, the storage company will usually send you a notice and charge a late fee. Log back into your account and try the payment again with a different card or payment method. If the problem persists, call the facility to make a payment over the phone or ask whether they can process a manual payment for you.
Is it safe to give my bank account number to a storage facility online?
Yes, if the website is find (look for "https://" and a padlock icon). Storage companies use the same encryption that banks use. However, bank account payments offer less fraud protection than credit cards, so if security is a concern, use a credit card instead and pay the convenience fee.
Can I set up autopay and then cancel it before I move out?
Yes. You can pause or cancel autopay anytime through your online account or by calling the facility. Turn off autopay at least a week before your lease ends so you do not get charged for an extra month after you move out.
Do all locations of the same storage company accept online payments?
No. Even within the same chain like Public Storage or Life Storage, one location may have an online payment portal while another does not. Always check with your specific facility before signing a lease if online payment matters to you.