15 Best Locks For Storage Units Reviews 2023 (Updated)
There are so many reasons to invest in a storage unit. You might be moving houses, and you need a place to keep your things while you complete the transition. Or maybe you have a home for all your belongings, but you need to declutter, and your garage doesn’t have space to house all your junk.
It doesn’t matter why you need a storage unit. These structures can serve a multitude of purposes, which is why you must secure them effectively. For ensuring security, we have to select the best locks for storage units. Without choosing the best locks for the storage units, we can not secure our valuables. So, we need to know what kind of lock for storage units are available in the market to buy.
Millions of people use storage units every year. And the most important thing about a storage unit is its lock. For maintaining an optimum level of security, storage unit owners generally use high-quality locks. Now, we have shown a comparison table of the top 15 storage units locks.
15 Best Locks for storage Units Comparison Table
Rank | Name | Image | Features | Warranty | Buy |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
#1 | Padlock - 4 Digit Combination Lock by desired tools | 30 Day Money Back Guarantee | |||
#2 | ABUS 20/70 Diskus Stainless Steel Padlock Keyed Different | provided by the Manufacturer | |||
#3 | Stanley Hardware Shrouded Hardened Steel Padlock | provided by the Manufacturer | |||
#4 | Master Lock 170D combination padlock | provided by the Manufacturer | |||
#5 | Fingerprint Padlock, Bluetooth | Free return within three months | |||
#6 | ABUS 92/80 Monoblock Solid Brass Padlock | Contact the Manufacturer | |||
#7 | Master Lock 930DLHPF Padlock | Limited Lifetime Warranty | |||
#8 | Master Lock Padlock Outdoor Bluetooth Lock | 01 year | |||
#9 | ABUS 37/80 Granit Alloy Steel Padlock | provided by the Manufacturer | |||
#10 | Kwikset 50MM SmartKey Padlock | provided by the Manufacturer | |||
#11 | Master Lock Padlock Titanium Series Stainless Steel Lock | Full Warranty | |||
#12 | Brinks 673-70001 Commercial Discus Lock with Stainless Steel Shackle | Visit Manufacturer Website | |||
#13 | Master Lock 141D Covered Aluminium Keyed padlock | Limited Lifetime Warranty | |||
#14 | Puroma Keyed Padlock | Visit Manufacturer Website | |||
#15 | Igloohome Smart Padlock | Visit Manufacturer Website |
15 Best Locks For Storage Units Reviews
01. 04 Digit Combination Lock by Desired Tools
The people at Desired Tools know their way around locks. And if you’re on the prowl for the best locks for the storage unit, then you will appreciate this four-digit combination lock.
The manufacturer claims that they built this product to accommodate gym lockers, school lockers, fences, and storage units. That tells you that the lock can survive in a variety of environments, both indoors and outdoors. So it doesn’t matter whether your storage unit is located inside a building or its entrance is exposed to the elements.
Desired Tools built the lock using zinc alloy and plated steel that contributes to its weatherproof attributes. So you need not worry about the product falling apart after being lashed by hot and cold weather.
The lock comes with an estimated ten thousand unique combinations that even the most dedicated thieves will struggle to crack. And yet, the process of setting your code is quite simple. The numbers are large and can read with little effort. The manufacturer provides an extensive guide online detailing the process of configuring and re-configuring this lock.
So you don’t have to worry about forgetting your code and losing the contents of your storage unit. The people at Desired Tools have your back.
Pros
Cons
Reason to Buy: It has a 30-day money-back guarantee for unsatisfied customers. The Manufacturer provides dedicated customer support staff that you can always consult over the phone or via email if you encounter any complications with their lock. So, do not hesitate to buy this product.
02. ABUS 20/70 Diskus Padlock
If you are looking for the best padlocks for storage units, check out the ABUS 20/70 Diskus stainless steel padlock.
Disk locks are great padlocks. Their design is such that they only provide a small opening in the shackle and that makes them rather difficult to tamper with. The ABUS Diskus padlock takes the disk lock design and elevates it. Talk to anyone who has ever purchased this product. The stories will astound you.
One consumer had an ABUS lock on his storage unit but a gang of thieves still robbed him clean. However, the ABUS lock wasn’t to blame. The thieves tried and failed to crack it. So they just twisted the part of the door to which it was attached out of the way.
Another consumer lost the key to his ABUS Lock. He hired a locksmith who had to use a rotary saw to remove the ABUS Lock. But the process took so much time and made so much noise that the consumer couldn’t imagine any thief daring to tamper with his storage unit in the middle of the night.
Simply put, ABUS storage locks are sturdy, and this one is no different. The entire product is stainless steel, not just inside but also outside. So rust isn’t an issue.
The key variations are too high for anyone to outmaneuver and the anti-cut plate will keep even drilling tools at bay. You can’t even pull the lock away using sheer force. Moreover, This lock has Diskus Deep Welding technology which can resist all lock cutting attacks.
However, ABUS offers different dimensions for this Diskus padlock. The most familiar dimensions of ABUS Diskus locks are 24/70, 20/80,24/60,25/70. Some unfamiliar dimensions of these locks are also available in the market. But ABUS 20/70 Padlock is the top-selling storage unit padlock in the Amazon having a 4.5 star rating with over 1000+ reviews.
However, If you want to see all types of ABUS locks for storage unit click here.
Reason to Buy: This Diskus padlock has Diskus Deep Welding technology deployed here gives the lock an abundance of strength. It will stand up to all non-electrical cutting tools and even a number of electrical ones. So, you should buy this ABUS 20/70 Diskus lock to secure your storage unit.
03. Stanley Hardware S828 Shrouded Padlock
There are few locks on the market today that are as beefy and solid as Stanley hardware shrouded padlock. Boasting a commercial six-pin cylinder and anti-pick pins, This lock has a powerful hardened steel body that will protect the contents of your storage unit even in the face of sawing and cutting tools.
The shackle is crafted from durable steel. The dual ball bearing locking system will combat any prying attempts the lock encounters. This lock is practically impenetrable, having been outfitted with comprehensive 360-degree defensive mechanisms.
Finding the best padlock for storage units takes a bit of work; you can’t just take the locks you find at face value. You have to test them thoroughly to determine their quality. But simply looking at this Stanley hardware product should immediately convince you that this lock is something special.
Moreover, Stanley Hardware produces two different types of locks. One is Shrouded Hardened Steel Padlock. The other is Shrouded Laminated Steel Padlock. The rating of these locks is 4.5 stars out of 5.
Reason to Buy: If You want a Hardened Steel Padlock with a reasonable price that can resist all lock cutting attempts, then this lock is best for you.
04. Master Lock 178D
The Master lock 178D has such a wide solid body that exudes power, strength, and reliability. The manufacturer designed it to work as a gym, school, and gate lock. So that should tell you that it is suitable for both indoor and outdoor work. One consumer on Amazon claims to have exposed it to rain and saltwater on multiple occasions.
Another used it to secure his gate. In both cases, the lock stood the test of time. It didn’t corrode, rust, or wear out. So you can trust it to keep the contents of your storage unit safe regardless of its location.
The shackle is thick, built to withstand attempts to cut it. While every lock comes with a key, the product uses a combination lock.
The key is used to configure the combination mechanism. Each product comes with a manual that will guide you through the process of setting your unique combination code.
The fact that there are thousands of possible numeric combinations means that even crafty thieves will have a hard time cracking the lock.
As we know, the Master Lock is one of the biggest storage lock producers in the world. It is currently selling hundreds of different types of storage locks on Amazon. But this 178D master lock is the cheapest and nearly 1600 customers reviewed this product on Amazon.
Reason to Buy: Master Lock is one of the leading lock manufacturers. You can use this lock indoors and outdoors as well. The strong lock body and hardened steel shackle can resist all lock cutting attempts. The 4-digit combination mechanism is easy to set up. You will get a Limited Lifetime warranty from the manufacturer.
05. Fingerprint Keyless Padlock
Product Specifications
Lock Type: Bluetooth Biometric Lock
Color: Blue and gray mixed
Dimensions:5 x 3.5 x 1.3 inches
Weight: 3.52 ounces
Battery: polymer battery (3.7V 130mAh )
Charging : By Micro USB
Unlocking system: APP or fingerprints
Guaranty: Free return within three months
Warranty : Seller will provide this information. Contact the seller.
Standby time: 01 month
The combination lock was an innovative breakthrough when it was first introduced. And no one expected it to lose its value.
However, today, most conversations regarding the best lock for storage units tend to emphasize the power of biometric technology, and that might explain why this WGCC lock is so popular.
If you thought combination locks were convenient, you will love this device which looks like a traditional padlock except that it has fingerprint technology.
You heard that right. With this WGCC padlock, your fingerprint is the key. Even the combination locks take time to open because you need to remember and then enter your code.
This padlock will open the second you apply your fingerprint. It comes with a rechargeable (3.7V 130mAh) polymer battery that will keep the padlock operational for the last 30 days.
The body is built from an aluminum alloy that is as strong and durable as they come. The stainless steel latch hook is also resistant to cutting attacks. The device is weatherproof, so you need not worry about rain or dust compromising the electronic components.
If the lock runs out of power, it will simply remain locked. Once you connect a power source, it will resume its operations immediately. In other words, you don’t have to worry about power supply complications exposing your storage unit to theft.
You can easily buy this lock to secure your unit as this lock offers you bio-metric technology with a padlock. So that, you do not require any type of metal key to open this lock since your finger works as the key. Consequently, this bio-metric system eliminates the necessity for storing the key to open the lock.
Besides this storage lock, you can get other high-rated fingerprint padlocks
in the market. But this WGCC fingerprint padlock has already been rated 4-star and it has been reviewed by around 600+customers.
Reason to Buy: If you want to get the advantages of biometric technology with a high level of security, then you should buy this lock.
06. ABUS 92/80 Brass Padlock
A lock should keep your storage unit secure while providing access for you and your family. The ABUS 90/80 brass padlock can ensure an optimum level of security to your storage unit.
Made of solid Brass, a common ingredient in padlocks, ABUS 90/80 padlock is corrosion resistant.
As we know, Brass is a common ingredient in padlocks, especially in Europe. ABUS, a leading padlock manufacturer, also makes a lot of brass padlocks. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes. When it comes to the lock for securing your self-storage unit, though, one cannot deny the power of the 92/80 mono-block brass padlock.
ABUS chose to ignore all the frills and thrills that its competitors normally emphasize. This padlock is just that: a padlock, except that it is really strong.
This padlock is one solid block of steel and a lot of people have felt compelled to purchase it solely because of its visual aesthetic. The makers designed it to resist bolt cutters. They also gave it a body that could weather the effects of corrosion, not to mention an eight-pin precision cylinder with 1000+ key variations.
On its own, the padlock is quite heavy, clearly manifesting its sturdy and rugged build. Some questions have been raised about its somewhat hefty price tag. But for the most part, you get what you pay for.
Reason to Buy: ABUS 92/80 padlock made from solid brass with a hardened steel shackle can resist corrosion and performs well against bolt cutter. You can get this giant padlock at a minimum price.
07. Master Lock 930D
Master lock 930D is a heavy lock, and probably the strongest product Master Lock has ever created. One consumer on Amazon testified to the fact that he had used the 930D to secure his bike in a dangerous street for three years.
At that time, it was exposed to snow, rain, and road salt. As a result, it rusted considerably. And yet, up to this day, it still works just fine.
Don’t let the surface appearance of this lock fool you. Yes, it doesn’t look particularly special, and it lacks the bells and whistles of its rivals.
You won’t find any fancy combination locks or fingerprint systems here. And yet, you would be hard-pressed to find a better lock for your storage unit.
The body is wide and solid, and it will stand up to rust. It is also quite difficult to cut. The over nine thousand key changes make it practically impervious to picking attempts.
Reason to Buy: It is one of the strongest locks that the manufacturer "Master lock" has ever made. So, If you need strongest lock for your storage unit, you should buy it.
08. Bluetooth Outdoor Lock by Master Lock
Master Lock’s Bluetooth product is the future because it is a keyless padlock in every sense of the world. Once you purchase it, you also have to install a simple app. Once the app is configured, it will enable you to open your lock with the press of a button on your smartphone.
In other words, you no longer have to worry about nefarious figures either stealing your keys or duplicating them. Your phone gives you complete control over the protection of your storage unit. You can give other people both temporary and permanent access to the lock, not to mention monitoring the people that tamper with it.
And yet, the power of this lock doesn’t just lie in its electronics. The boron carbide shackle is quite strong. It will stand up to cutting and sawing attacks.
Customers also get a weather cover that will keep the metal body safe from extreme weather conditions.
Reason to Buy: You can operate this lock from your mobile phone. The Bluetooth connectivity and integration of smartphone technology make this product very convenient and simple to use. You don’t even require Wi-Fi. So, Buy this lock to enjoy this easy technology.
09. ABUS 37/80 Keyed Lock
This lock is expensive but you get exactly what you pay for. ABUS seems to have an affinity for padlocks that are essentially large, solid blocks. And this one is no different. You can tell that you will get great value for your money by simply looking at it. And as with most ABUS locks, the product lacks the gimmicky frills that other lock makers use to attract attention.
This padlock requires a lithium metal battery but that is primarily for the luminous keys ABUS provides. Otherwise, you will get a simple lock with a tensile resistance of 25,000 pounds and a core-hardened body that will stand up to cutting, drilling, and pulling.
Can you get through this lock through brute force? Definitely, but you will require a die grinder and that makes too much noise; bolt cutters won’t help you. So you can trust this lock with the contents of your storage unit.
Reason to Buy: If you want a lightweight but hardened lock body with Key-retaining feature, then this lock is best for your storage unit.
10. 50MM SmartKey Lock by Kwikset
This Kwikset padlock from Taiwan doesn’t look like much but it will surprise you. After all, Kwikset has been making padlocks for over six decades. So they know what they are doing.
With the Smartkey Lock, you get convenience, protection, and durability. The padlock is made in such a way that you can rekey it to make the lock compatible with the keys of any other SmartKey lock.
In other words, the same key that opens the door to your house can also open the padlock that keeps your storage unit safe. Things can’t get any easier than that.
This lock does not only pick, hammer, and prying-resistant but it also has a stylish look.
Reason to Buy: If you want to re-key your padlock and if you need Key retaining feature with a strong molybdenum shackle, then this lock is best for your unit.
11. Titanium Shrouded Padlock by Master Lock
You can’t go wrong with a Master Lock product. After all, they have been in business since 1921 and they keep raising the bar with every innovative step they take. This padlock is another heavy duty offering from Master Lock. One look at the wide, stainless steel body will tell you everything you need to know.
The lock has a shrouded design that minimizes the exposure of the shackle which, in turn, negates the efficacy of bolt cutters.
Even if you bring a saw to the table, the shackles are made of hardened steel that is highly resistant to cutting.
The lock will survive comfortably in extreme weather temperatures without rusting or corroding. As far as the lock for storage unit goes, you can slap this one in place with confidence, knowing that your valuables will remain safe.
Reason to Buy: If you want a beautiful and strong stainless steel lock with a full warranty support from manufacturer, then this lock is best for you.
12. Brinks 673-70001
If you want a lock that is guaranteed to frustrate thieves, you don’t have to look any further than this model. It boasts an intelligent design that includes a stainless-steel body that resists corrosion. You can use the lock outside, knowing full well that it won’t fall apart.
If you hate the unsightly scratches that outdoor locks develop over time, this one comes with a rubber jacket that provides a modicum of protection against scratches.
The four-pin cylinder makes the item more difficult to pick. If thieves with lock picks don’t concern you, the shackle is stainless steel. The shackle uses the round shielded construction to make it more difficult for people to cut with bolt cutters.
This makes the lock far more secure. You can use it on lockers, sheds, boxes, construction site storage units, etc. The manufacturer has included a lifetime warranty.
13. Master Lock Store 141D
People call this one of the best storage unit padlocks because it has a robust aluminum body that resists scratches and corrosion. Boasting a vinyl cover that enhances its durability, the padlock features a hardened steel shackle that makes it more difficult for people with bolt cutters to break it.
If your area is littered with criminals that have a reputation for picking locks, this model’s four-pin cylinder makes that tactic less effective. If you’re worried about criminals with a more aggressive mindset, they will struggle with this product’s dual locking levers. They are designed to resist prying and hammering.
You can place this lock on your storage unit, gym locker, shed, and the like knowing that it will repel intruders. The manufacturer has provided two matching keys. If that isn’t enough to win you over, you should know that the lock comes with a Limited Lifetime Warranty.
14. Puroma Keyed Padlock
The best lock for storage unit should be strong, sturdy, and versatile. This model ticks all those boxes. You can use it on storage units, warehouses, moving trucks, sheds, and every other location that requires a secure lock.
The body is stainless steel, while the shackle is hardened steel. If that wasn’t enough, the design of the lock minimizes the exposure of the shackle, making the lock more difficult to bypass with bolt cutters.
If you’ve never heard of hardened steel, the material is resistant to corrosion, which is means that it will stand the test of time, even when you use it outdoors. The manufacturer encourages consumers to consider the shackle size before they buy this lock, and for a good reason. If the shackle is too thick, it may not fit the door of your storage unit.
15. Igloohome Smart Padlock
If you want the best storage unit smart lock, this model will satisfy your needs. It is every bit as advanced as it looks. You can use the buttons on the face of the padlock to limit access to your storage unit. The product has a compact design.
It is so small that consumers can use it to protect a bicycle chain. You don’t need internet access to use it. If you have the mobile app, you can manage and even share the pin code with your friends and family.
If that wasn’t enough, the app alerts you whenever someone opens or closes the lock. This lets you know when an intruder accesses your storage unit. If that hasn’t won you over, the lock allows you to create and then share one-time pin codes.
You can also create recurring pins that only work on specific days. Permanent pins are meant for the people you trust. Some pins will only work during a particular range of dates. As you can see, the lock is incredibly versatile.
What Kind of Lock Do I Need for storage unit
Security is a major issue especially when it comes to maintaining a storage unit. With so many locks in the market, you might struggle to find the best lock for your storage unit.
This article will go a long way in helping you to understand which lock is the best for your particular situation
1. Padlocks.
A traditional padlock is made up of an outer casing that encloses the inner workings of the padlock and a shackle that locks the padlock.
The outer casing is tough and it is made to withstand tampering. The shackle is also be made of highly-resistant material to prevent cutting.
The levers on the inside move a latch that holds the shackle in place when the lock mechanism is engaged. The shackle is designed with a notch which fits into the latch to hold the shackle in place. You need to use the correct key to disengage the shackle to open the lock. The lock cannot be opened by another key.
2. Closed Shackle Padlocks.
The unfortunate thing is that thieves get smarter with time. Thieves resort to cutting the shackle on the padlock to gain access to your storage unit. The solution is a closed shackle padlock.
A closed shackle padlock has the same internal mechanism as a normal padlock. However, the shackle (the locking part of the padlock) is partially covered. Only a little part of the shackle remains exposed once you lock. The part that is left is usually the hardest part of the shackle. In addition, the exposed part is usually left in an awkward position. This reduces the chances of a thief successfully cutting the shackle on your padlock.
Additionally, these look like ordinary padlocks. However, the shackle is not only shorter and thicker but also covered by a protective casing which makes the lock all but impossible to cut.
Unfortunately, such locks are quite expensive.
3. Open Shackle Padlocks.
These are padlocks that have most of the shackle exposed. Consider the following factors before buying an open shackle padlock:
Shackle thickness
A thicker shackle presents more resistance to tampering. A 10 mm or more shackle is a high-security shackle. Medium security shackles range between 7-9 mm. Anything below 7 mm is regarded as a low-security shackle.
Material
A variety of materials are used to make padlocks:
- Molybdenum: It is the strongest and most reliable material for manufacturing padlocks. It is also the most resistant to corrosion. It offers the highest level of security. In addition, it is the most expensive.
- Boron: It is a form of high strength steel that is non-corrosive. It also offers high levels of security.
- Solid steel: Solid steel is durable and it provides a lot of resistance to cutting. These padlocks are usually coated with zinc or chrome to provide resistance to corrosion.
- Brass: This provides a non-corrosive and non-expensive option. However, it does not provide as much resistance to tampering as steel.
- Plastic: This option can only be used where tampering is highly unlikely.
4. Disc Locks
A disc lock is a portable lock that is mostly used to secure motorcycles. Disc lock shackles are designed to fit into one of the holes on the brake discs and to lock on the other side. This prevents the wheel from making a complete rotation until the lock is removed.
They are usually made using hardened steel which is brass plated to avoid corrosion. Hardened steel is resistant to cutting and shattering. In addition, some of them come with a siren that is meant to alert you if someone tries to tamper with the lock.
Additionally, disc locks are ordinary padlocks, but they are round. They are not only easy to use, but it takes a lot of hardware to break them open, which is why they are encouraged for storage units.
5. Cylinder Locks.
Cylinder locks are common in homes. The lock works when you put in the key to rotate the cylinder. The cylinder then moves the tang inside.
When locked, the tang is partially outside and partially inside. The tang is usually completely inside when unlocked.
A cylinder lock provides high levels of security since only one key can open the lock. The spring mechanisms inside are adapted to only one key. Cylinder locks are very difficult to cut since the tang is not exposed on the outside even when locked.
Cylinder locks are very difficult to cut since the tang is not exposed on the outside even when locked.
Additionally, These look like the locks you find on a normal door. They are even tougher to force open than the disc and closed-shackle locks. But they are a little difficult to install and not every storage unit is equipped to work with them.
6. Combination Locks.
These are high-security locks that need a specific combination to unlock. You are required to move a knob to set the numbers of the combination. If the combination is correct, the lock opens.
Each number in the combination has a specific wheel inside the lock that it turns. Once the wheels inside the lock align, the lock opens. This lock is virtually tamper-proof. It would take very powerful machines to force open this lock. In addition, you can keep the combination a secret to ensure that only you can open the lock.
7. Single Dial Combination Lock.
Single dial combination locks use the same internal mechanism as the combination lock described above. To open the lock you have to rotate the knob clockwise or anticlockwise to get to the first letter or symbol. Once you do so, rotate to the other direction to get to the next symbol. The lock will unlock once you locate all the letters or symbol.
This type of lock provides a higher level of security compared to padlocks. However, you have to ensure that the lock is made from strong material to reduce the possibility of breaking.
8. Multiple Dial Combination Lock.
This lock is usually found on briefcases. It requires that you move specific numbers that align the wheels to open the lock. Without the specific combination, you cannot open the lock.
This system is not considered as very secure. It is very easy to open even without the code. This is because once you rotate to the right number, it makes a unique clicking sound. With keen hearing, you can get the correct sequence in a matter of time. It is recommended that you do not use this lock to secure valuable items.
9. Keyless Locks.
This system abandons the traditional key and cylinder method of opening locks. Instead, it requires a specific “electrical impulse” to open. This electrical impulse can be triggered in a number of ways including:
- A correct pin on a keypad.
- Wireless remote control.
- An electronic card reader.
This system is advantageous since you can easily change the mode of opening if you think it has been tampered with. Most electric locks come with a physical lock and key mechanism that acts as a manual override if there is a power outage.
10. Handle Locks.
Handle locks use a really simple mechanism to lock. All you have to is to turn the latch to release the door from the frame. It provides a temporary lock since anyone can open the lock.
Most handle locks come with cylinder locks to provide extra security. Once the cylinder lock is locked on you need the key to successfully open the handle lock.
11. Deadbolts.
There are two types of deadbolts:
Surface mounted deadbolts.
These types of deadbolts are placed on the surface of the door. It can either be opened from one side only or it can have a provision for inserting the key on both sides. You can either use the key on a deadbolt knob to lock or unlock the door.
Internal deadbolts
These types of deadbolts are placed inside the door. The only part that is exposed is the key entry. The lock can only disengage once the correct key turns the lock. This type of deadbolt can either be opened from both sides or from one side. It provides more security than a surface mounted deadbolt since it is located inside the door.
12. Rim Latch Locks.
A rim lock works by extending a bolt from the side of the lock into a dedicated latch on the door frame. This locks the door in place. Most rim locks utilize the cylinder lock mechanism.
The best thing about rim locks is that they are usually placed on the inside. Once it is locked, only a person on the inside can unlock it.
The above list provides a description of the best ways to lock your storage space. The advancement of technology means that different types of locks will continue to emerge. Moreover, a Rim latch lock can also give protection to sliding barn doors. Most people consider cylinder rim locks as a top lock for securing sliding barn doors.
At the moment, however, the list above offers you a comprehensive list of what is currently available.
What To Consider While Buying Best Locks For Storage Units
You can’t expect every lock on the market to keep your storage unit safe. They are not all the same. Some locks are better than others, which is why you must learn to differentiate the good locks from the terrible alternatives. That means taking the following factors into account:
1). Consider What Level Of Security You Need
What kind of security do you need? Are you trying to keep naughty children out or hardened criminals? Does the facility have guards? What about surveillance systems? If the facility has decent security measures, you require a lower level of security for your unit. If it doesn’t have any security or the systems are insufficient, you need a higher level of protection.
At first you should think about the Technology that is used to make the lock. The more lock-cutting-resistant technologies are used, the safer your store will be. If your storage unit is located outdoor, you also need weather-resistant Technology in your lock.
2). Consider The Locking Option of the Storage Door’s Hasp
What kind of locking mechanism does the storage unit use? Are you looking at a conventional lock with a hasp or a latch? A lock won’t help you if it cannot fit the design of the door’s locking mechanism.
3). Consider Which Type of Lock Fits The Lock Hasp
The type of lock matters. Standard locks are convenient because they are easily accessible. But you can cut them with minimal effort. The same cannot be said for disc locks, which can defend against most cutting attempts.
Closed shackle and cylinder locks are another option. Make sure the type of lock fits the door. For instance, you cannot use a lock with a shackle on a door that requires a sliding latch.
Choosing the right type of lock is not a cumbersome job. You may choose from the list below:
Among the variety of locks, Padlock and disk lock are the most common types of locks used in the storage unit.
4). Material of the Lock
The material is one of the most important considerations because it affects durability. Look for products whose materials have a reputation for resisting extreme conditions, including zinc alloy and boron carbide. People flock to cheaper materials because they produce inexpensive locks. But experienced criminals can break inexpensive locks with ease.
5) Quality and strength of the Lock:
At first, you have to look for the quality of the lock. Different types of materials are used for making locks. Molybdenum, Boron, Solid steel, Brass are the common lock-making materials. The price of the lock varies with the materials of the lock. You should choose by matching with your budget.
5). Consider Dimensions and Size of the Lock
The number of people that forget to consider the dimensions may surprise you. Look for a lock whose shackle can fit the hasp. If the shackle is too large, it won’t enter the hasp. If the shackle is too small, it will break with ease.
The size of the lock may vary based on the storage unit structure and condition. You will choose the lock based on the location and available free space around the lock in your storage unit.
6). Technology Used In The Lock
Most people don’t even account for the locking mechanism. You need a lock with as many pins as possible because it is more challenging to pick. You should also experiment with cylinder locks because you cannot cut them. Disc locks are another appealing option because they resist drilling, cutting, and picking.
7). Indoor VS Outdoor Storage Unit Lock
Don’t use indoor locks on exterior units. This is because exposure to sunshine and moisture will corrode them, making them easier to break. Outdoor locks are longer lasting, but that makes them more expensive.
8). How Many Keys You Need
Conventional locks require a key to open and close. That makes them vulnerable because a criminal can easily replicate your key if they can get their hands on it. This is why some storage unit owners are opting for a combo lock that requires a number code to open. You don’t need a key. Some smart locks can only be opened with a phone app and a password.
9). Budget
How much money are you willing to spend? The heaviest, thickest locks are also the most expensive because they are made from durable materials. But you don’t have to buy costly locks.
There are plenty of secure but affordable storage unit locks. If you can’t afford the most expensive locks, prioritize cheaper locks with mechanisms that make them difficult to pick and cut. If you can’t access a disc lock, look for padlocks with the shortest possible shackles.
Other considerable issues when selecting a lock for storage unit
Even the most expensive storage facilities will expect you to meet the costs of securing your storage unit. And ultimately, securing your storage unit is not a simple matter of selecting the right lock.
But that begs the question: how do you determine what kind of lock you will need for your storage unit?
As is often the case, you have to ask a few questions, such as:
1). Do you misplace your keys a lot?
If you do, then you might have to forego a keyed lock in favor of a combination lock. A combination lock is the one with numbers that you must turn to open it.
If you can trust your ability to secure your keys, then go for an ordinary keyed lock. This is the one that requires a key to open.
2). What kind of fastener does your unit’s door have?
If you have a particular lock you prefer, but the fastener isn’t compatible with it, you will have to consider a few other locks.
3). What does your insurance have to say about your lock?
You will find that some insurers expect you to use certain brands and locks for them to cover the contents of your storage unit.
4). How many people need to access your unit?
Combination locks are handy if multiple people have to use your unit. That way, you do not have to make multiple copies of your keys.
If you are the sole user, then a normal keyed lock will do.
For the most part, most of the decisions you make here will come down to choosing between open shackle locks and closed-shackle padlocks and keyed or combination locks.
You must also choose between single dial combination locks, multiple dial combination locks, and padlocks.
5). Shifting items from one storage unit to another
Sometimes you need to shift your valuables from one storage unit to another due to many reasons. You may require a truck or trailer for carrying your items. While shifting valuables from one storage unit to another, you should ensure the proper security of the trailer. That is why you may consider a trailer puck lock. The puck lock has a heavy-duty solid steel body that won't rust, fade, or corrode.
6). Consider the door types before selecting storage unit lock
There are two types of storage unit door available. before choosing lock for your storage unit you should consider the door types used in your storage unit.
1. Normal gate type open door
2. Roller type door
How To Measure Storage Unit Lock
Assuming that you know what type of lock you need, how can you choose between a good lock and a bad lock? Well, think about the following:
1). Shackle Size
Shackle size matters. The lock you choose should have a shackle whose size is compatible with the hasp of the storage unit.
If you buy a lock with a massive shackle because you think it delivers better security, it might fail to fit properly. On the other hand, a shackle that is too small is easy to cut.
2). Weathering
Public, drive-up storage units are problematic because their locks are exposed to the weather. Such prolonged exposure to heat and cold will eventually damage your lock.
So you need to get a lock with a rubber or plastic housing that will keep the elements out while also preventing moisture and dirt from building up inside. Moreover, you may also use moisture absorber buckets in your storage unit to trap and remove excess moisture.
3). Ball Bearings
Ignore locks with loaded springs. These are the ones with angular cuts at the bottom of the shackle.
Loaded spring locks are too easy to force open. Get locks with ball bearings. Those are more secure.
If you truly want to secure your storage unit, you are discouraged from relying on ordinary padlocks. They won’t keep you safe.
Even combination locks (single and multiple) won’t do. The material also matters. Invest in expensive locks because they are normally made from the toughest ingredients.
A disc lock made out of cheap material is of no use. Invest in your storage unit security.
Why lock and storage unit is important?
A storage unit is merely a space within another individual or company’s premises that you use to store your things. Think of it as a room that you can rent out, but you are only allowed to store items within its confines.
The law does not permit you to live in a storage unit. These facilities are like external hard disk drives. They are additional storage space that you can use to contain your valuables safely.
Storage unit facility providing companies all over the world are erecting new ideas and more secured storage facilities every day because of the aggregate demand.
As such, the literal glut of storage units raises a question: with so many storage facilities out there, how can you find and select the perfect storage unit for your needs?
However, before selecting the storage unit some factors you may consider. These are:
1). Contents
What are you trying to store in the storage unit? Is it boxes, electronics, cars, furniture? The kinds of items you need to store will determine the kind of storage unit you choose.
2). Climate Control
Do you require a climate control mechanism in your storage unit? You have to decide whether or not you need climate control products such as moisture absorbers or dehumidifiers based on the stored items in the storage unit.
Some items such as wooden furniture can only survive in a storage unit over extended periods if they are protected from humidity. So if you live in a particularly dry area, you will require a climate-controlled unit.
Otherwise, some of your valuable items may damage due to excess humidity in the storage unit.
3). Size
How many items do you need to store in a storage unit? The quantity of the goods, furniture, and other households items will determine the size of the storage unit. The bigger the storage unit, the more you will pay in rent.
4). Location
The location of the storage unit will affect your expenditure.
Some people need storage units that are close enough for them to check on their valuables frequently and conveniently.
But storage units in city centers are quite expensive, so you might have to settle for a facility outside the city. However, that will limit the number of times you can check on your valuables. location will affect your expenditure.
Some people need storage units that are close enough for them to check on their valuables frequently and conveniently.
5). Insurance
Insurance is a vital component to consider while selecting a storage facility. You may choose a storage facility whose insurance will cover the contents of your unit. You never know when fire, thieves, or other unfortunate factors might come into play.
Of course, if insurance isn’t an option for you, then you should pay close attention to the security.
Our Final Choice
Finally, if you are confused about choosing the best locks for storage units from the above list, we are here to give you our final opinion. You may select ABUS 20/70 Discuss padlock placed in serial no-2 in our table. At a very reasonable price and variety of sizes, this lock is resistant to cutting and picking.