<Tr> <Td> </Td> <Td> This article needs to be updated . Please update this article to reflect recent events or newly available information . (February 2018) </Td> </Tr> <P> Self storage (a shorthand for "self - service storage", and also known as "mini storage") is an industry in which storage space (such as rooms, lockers, containers, and / or outdoor space), also known as "storage units" is rented to tenants, usually on a short - term basis (often month - to - month). Self - storage tenants include businesses and individuals . </P> <P> The self - storage industry is primarily a United States - based industry . As of 2018, it's estimated that between 44,000 and 52,000 storage facilities are currently in the United States . </P> <P> Industry experts often refer to "4Ds of life" (death, divorce, downsizing and dislocation; the latter can refer to either the renter relocating to another area and needing space to store items until they can be moved to the new location, or a subsequent marriage resulting in the couple having duplicate items) when discussing why storage space is rented . </P>

How many storage facilities are there in the united states