Frequently Asked Questions
Reservations & Leasing
How far in advance can I reserve a self-storage unit?
All storage units at Briarcliff Storage are available on a first-come, first-served basis. You may rent a storage unit anytime online through our easy Uhaul affiliate rental portal with the required payment. We can also temporarily hold a unit for customers who call to reserve a unit.Do I need to sign a lease, or can I rent month-to-month?
All rentals at Briarcliff Storage are month-to-month. A signed rental agreement is required before moving in.Getting Started
What do I need to rent a self-storage unit today?
To move in on the same day, you will need:- The $30 administrative fee and your prorated first month’s rent
- A signed month-to-month rental agreement
- A valid photo ID (driver’s license or state ID)
- A working phone number, email address, and current mailing address
- A cylinder lock (included with your rental)
Can I rent a self-storage unit mid-month? Do you prorate?
Yes. Your first month is prorated based on your move-in date. The final month is not prorated.Access & Hours
What are the access hours for my storage unit?
You may access your unit from 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily, including holidays. Each customer receives a unique access code for the gate and, when applicable, the climate-controlled building. The gate does not open after 10:00 PM.Insurance & Protection Plans
Do you require insurance on the contents of my storage unit?
Yes. All stored items must be covered by insurance or a protection plan. You may use your own policy or purchase an affordable protection plan from Briarcliff Storage. Our protection plans include: (See our Features Page for details)- A $100 deductible
- Multiple levels of coverage
Payments & Billing
How can I make a payment?
We offer several payment options:- Autopay: Your card is automatically charged each month (recommended)
- In-person: Pay by cash, check, or card at the office
- Online: Pay anytime through our website
When is rent due?
Rent is due on the 1st of each month.- After the 5th: gate access is denied
- After the 10th: a $20 late fee is applied
- After 32 days past due: a $100 lien/auction fee is added and auction procedures may begin
Storage Rules & Restrictions
What can I store in my unit?
You may store household goods, furniture, business items, and most non-hazardous belongings. The following are not allowed:- Flammable, explosive, corrosive, or toxic materials
- Food or animal feed
- Illegal substances
What items are completely prohibited?
The following are never permitted in any unit:- Live animals
- Perishables
- Liquids
- Explosives
- Flammable fuels or liquids
- Hazardous or toxic materials
- Items requiring a controlled environment
Security & Safety
What security features does Briarcliff Storage provide?
Our facility uses multiple security systems, including:- Digital video recording
- Motion-activated lighting
- Brightly lit aisles and hallways
- Central fire monitoring
- Perimeter fencing
- Personalized gate and building access codes
- Recessed cylinder-lock doors designed to resist tampering
- Full-time managers and maintenance staff
- Only you possess the keys to your lock.
Locks & Building Access
Do you provide locks? Do you keep a key?
Yes. A high-security cylinder lock is included with your rental. Briarcliff Storage does not keep a key to your lock. Cylinder locks sit flush inside the door and are resistant to cutting, drilling, and picking. (See our Move In & Out Tips Page for details)What are the entry door dimensions for the climate-controlled building?
The doors measure 45″ wide × 83″ tall.Unit Types, Sizes & Features
What is the difference between climate-controlled and drive-up units?
- Climate-controlled units (indoor) maintain temperatures between 55–80°F and humidity between 25–65%. These units offer interior hallways and protection from weather.
- Drive-up units allow exterior vehicle access and do not include temperature or humidity control.
What unit sizes are available in Oak Ridge, TN?
We offer a wide range of sizes. Please visit our Uhaul Online Rental Portal website or stop by to see current availability.How do I know what size unit I need?
Use our online storage calculator to determine the best unit size for your needs.Vehicles & Parking
Do you offer boat, car, or RV storage?
We do not offer outdoor parking or vehicle storage. Our parking areas must remain available for customers who are actively loading or unloading.Can I leave my vehicle parked on the property?
You may park while you are onsite accessing your unit. Unattended or overnight parking is not allowed. Unauthorized vehicles may be booted or towed.Is a storage unit large enough for my car or boat?
Some larger units can accommodate vehicles. A typical car requires a 10×20 unit. Many boat trailers require larger spaces than we offer.Renting Online or by Reservation
Can I rent my self-storage unit online?
Yes. You can complete the entire rental process online in just a few minutes through our Uhaul Online Rental Portal.Do I need a reservation?
Reservations are optional. We can temporarily hold a unit for customers who call to reserve a unit. A reservation secures a unit and rate for a short period. If a unit is available, you may also rent immediately online or by phone.Do you provide rental trucks?
No, we do not offer moving truck rentals.Packing & Storage Tips
What is the best way to pack my belongings for storage?
- Use boxes, totes, or containers appropriate for each item
- Clean and dry appliances; store with doors slightly open
- Lightly oil metal surfaces to prevent rust
- Hang clothing when possible, store clean fabrics only
- Wrap dishes and glassware individually
- Store chairs seat-to-seat; avoid stacking heavy furniture
- Protect upholstery with cotton covers
- Store holiday items in original boxes
- Keep media (CDs, tapes, records) in airtight containers
- Cover screens with dust covers and padding
- Pack books and documents flat
- Disassemble furniture and keep hardware together
- Wrap lamps separately
- Clean and dry all electronics prior to storage
