I owned a storage unit back in 2014. I used to store some rare gems as a collector, and I was on the move most of the time. I needed a secure place to keep them, so I put them in a secure storage unit, safe I thought, but I was using a standard lock most of the time, and as you guessed, one day I went to my storage unit, and it was all empty, my lock was BROKEN.
There are countless reasons for needing a storage unit, so these structures have to be secure effectively. As long as the storage unit is securely locked, a storage unit is a great place to store your possessions, but if it’s not properly secured with a capable lock, you might lose your belongings as you keep them.
To avoid this and keep your storage unit protected at all time, you need a storage unit lock as they are challenging to break and are thicker with a proper anti-theft mechanism, unlike the standard locks that can be easily broken or manipulated.
So, I took multiple storage unit locks tests, and most of them are not good enough. Still, some storage unit locks are absolute beast in terms of quality, and in this article, I will list all of these best storage unit locks that are reliable and advanced.
Best Storage Unit Lock
Table of Contents
4 Digit Combination Padlock by Desired Tools
Desired Tools are well known for their excellent quality of security locks, and this 4 Digit Combination Padlock is no different. Sitting well over a 4.5-star rating on Amazon with more than 5000 reviews, this is one of the best storage units locks you can find.
The lock is very adaptable and can be used for uses other than just storage unit lock such as gym locker or school lockers. This shows the flexibility of this lock and how it can survive in different environments so you can be sure all the time, no matter if your storage unit is indoor or outdoor.
The Padlock uses plated steel with zinc allow and is weatherproof. This further ensures the use of the product in all conditions regardless of weather conditions or environment.
Now, coming to security, it is reasonably simple to set up your personal code in this lock with more than several thousand different available combinations that even the best of the thieves would struggle to crack. Also, you get a massive online guide that you can follow for the configuration or re-configuration process. So even if you forgot your code, you could be well assured that it can be re-configured only by following the online guide.
- It contains hasp, which is stainless steel and will avoid any rusting on the lock.
- The combination of zinc alloy, steel and metal give durability to the lock.
- It is relatively simple to install and configure with the online guide.
- It is made to survive all kinds of environments and weather.
- Strangely, the company seems to send tons of spam emails to its customers.
Stanley Hardware S828-160 CD8820 Shrouded Hardened Steel Padlock
This is one of the most solid storage unit locks on the list, and it offers an anti-pick pin with a six-pin cylinder and a robust steel body that ensures the durability of this lock even against hammers and sawing tools. Pretty solid, isn’t it?
The Stanley Hardware Padlock comes with a ball bearing locking system, and the shackle is made out of durable steel that will fight against any unauthentic unlocking or breaking attempts on this lock. This solid lock is nearly impossible to crack open and offers 360-degree defence functionality.
A durable padlock is not very common to find, and even if you find one, you need to test it thoroughly before using it for your storage units. You can’t take a lock just from its face value, but the Stanley Hardware Padlock gives a feeling of strength. Even by its look, Not just to you but also to thieves who might think twice before attempting to penetrate it.
- It is a sturdy and durable lock.
- The hardened shackle can withstand electric as well as manual saws attack.
- It provides an anti-drilling mechanism through the keyway cover.
- The six-cylinder pins in the core can slow down even the most skilled thieves.
- It is relatively cheap considering the durability and features it provide.
- If you lost the key, it could be challenging to find a new replacement key.
Master Lock No. 930DLHPF
Master Lock quite literally is the Master of locks when it comes to durability and strength. It uses hardened boron alloy material in the shackle used for all quality storage unit locks out there due to its sturdiness and resistance to breaking.
In terms of looks, this lock looks small and compact but is relatively heavy when picked up. Master Lock claims that this is the most robust lock they have ever created and contains the strongest shackle you can find. This makes it highly effective against heavy lock penetrating devices such as hacksaws or bolt cutters.
It adds even more security by offering a five-pin cylinder and a dual ball-bearing mechanism. The shackle is enormously large with 11-millimetre of diameter and may not fit in all use cases. So make sure that your storage locker can fit an 11-millimetre diameter of lock shackle.
One of the critical features of this lock is its 9,000 fundamental changes for added security. This prevents it from easily being picked, even by expert lockpickers. You can be well assured that this lock will remain intact even if most skilled thieves try to unlock it.
- It is a sturdy and durable lock.
- The design is small, while the weight is relatively heavy.
- Dual ball bearing support to add extra protection against hammering or prying.
- It is weatherproof and can survive in any weather condition.
- The 11-millimetre diameter shackle is large and doesn’t fit in small lockers.
- It doesn’t look or feel premium, and the finishing is not of excellent quality.
ABUS 20/70 Diskus Padlock
Disk locks are just padlocks in their upgraded form. They are designed so that their shackles openings are tiny, and due to this factor, they are the hardest to cut through. The ABUS 20/70 Diskus Padlock just takes the concept of disk locks and makes it even better.
ABUS are the leaders in disk locks with their intuitive quality and design that provides both toughness and premium look. They are the leaders cause their locks are proven against theft and thousands of failed breaking attempts.
This storage unit lock is sturdy and durable as it is made entirely from stainless steel, which removes any chances of rusting in extended use. The variations of the key are too high, enough that it becomes almost impossible to outmaneuver it. It offers an anti-drilling mechanism and its own Diskus Deep Welding feature to prevent any cutting attempts made on the lock.
The name 20/70 represents the diameter of the lock, where 70 refers to the outside diameter of the lock, i.e. 70 millimetres. You can also choose from different variants such as 20/80, 25/70 or the most famous one, 24/70.
- Unlike standard locks that use pin tumblers, this lock uses a disk detainer that can’t be picked.
- It is entirely stainless steel both from inside and outside, preventing any chance of rusting.
- It creates too much noise when being cut or drilled. This will prevent the usage of any power tools to break the lock open by thieves.
- The keys for this lock are custom made in Germany, so if you lost it, it could be complicated to get a new one.
- It is not completely weatherproof and can cause problems in freezing weather.
WGCC Fingerprint Keyless Padlock
Try using Biometric Technology Instead of Combination Locks from WGCC if you are frustrated with existing locks that use combination technology or keys. The design gives the feel of a traditional padlock, but it works on a fingerprint that uses your biometric to lock and unlock the device.
One of the most advanced features is that this lock can be used with your iOS device using the HomeKit app. This allows a multitude of flexibility to the device and remote access as well. So in case you need to remotely open the lock, you can do it with a touch of your mobile from anywhere on earth.
Though due to it being an electronic device, it runs on a battery. The battery, however, can run for 40 days straight on a single charge with heavy use. So not a big deal if you are not thinking to lock your storage for an extended period at once.
But in case the battery for some reason runs out, you don’t need to be worried as it will remain locked until you charge it back and unlock it.
It is a great lock but is not for everyone; not every storage unit needs an electrical lock, but if you want the comfort of accessing your lock from your mobile and forget about managing keys, this lock could be your best resource.
- It is durable and is fireproof, as made with zinc alloy.
- You can reset the lock easily with the pin provided.
- It comes with remote access from your iOS devices.
- It doesn’t recognize wet or dirty fingers.
- The instructions are complicated for a non-technical person.
Master Lock 141D Covered Aluminum Keyed Padlock
Another one from Master, and this one is slightly different from the other one. The Master Lock 141D is focused on everyday affordable protection. Made for ease of use in indoor and outdoor environments with excellent security, rare in storage unit locks at this price range.
It has a solid body that ensures no picking is possible on this lock. With this on your storage unit, you can rest assured that your belongings are safe and intact no matter how long you leave them there.
The lock’s body is made from black vinyl-covered aluminium, known for its resistance to scratches and rust. Due to this, the product is weatherproof and can survive the hottest days of summer and the coldest ones of winters. It also offers pure steel made hardened 6-millimetre diameter shackle that has cut resistant elements in it.
It provides better than previous entries in the shackle size and diameter; you can easily use it in tight places. The affordability is also a significant factor in the success of this lock, as you hardly see any dual-locking functionality lock at this price point.
Additionally, you will also get 2 additional keys if you lost the original one, which happens to most of us.
- Rust and scratch-free body made with black vinyl.
- The body is made with extreme quality aluminium that provides additional security.
- It comes with a dual-locking mechanism making it extremely difficult to pick.
- The design is flexible and can easily fit tight places.
- The shackle is flexible but compromises thickness for it that reduced the strength.
- It is lightweight and gives a cheap feel in terms of looks.
- The key provided is also weak and in rough use, can easily bend and warp.
ABUS 92/80 Monoblock Solid Brass with Steel Jacket Padlock
This one is a powerhouse from ABUS, made with brass used for most of the padlocks in the Europe region; it comes with tons of variety in sizes and is one the best solution for your storage unit security problems.
For this storage unit lock, ABUS entirely focused on one thing, i.e. strength. It removed all other fuzz that competitors are providing as for ABUS, they were not necessary, and the main focus of a storage unit lock should be a strength to fight against theft.
The design is aesthetically pleasing, and the body is made with solid steel blocks that attract people to but it sometimes just for its looks. But its server more than just looking great; it offers an anti-cut resistant bolt and can also withstand any weather without any sign of rust or damage. Also, it has an eight-pin cylinder that is more than enough to keep even the best thieves at bay.
The weight is high, representing its sturdiness and strength though it comes with a price tag that most will not feel comfortable with. But you get what you pay for; if you are serious about your possessions, you will invest well in a lock.
- The eight-pin cylinder made preciously with brass gives it thousands of different key variations that are extremely difficult to crack.
- The shackle is made of chrome-plated steel and is thick and sturdy.
- The weatherproof body made with chrome-plated steel provides more than enough support to this device.
- It is made with durability in mind to use it to store things for a very long time.
- Again, the large shackle might not fit in tight and small lockers, so you need to make sure your lockers can fit this lock before buying.
Outdoor Personal Use Bluetooth PadLock by Master
A future proof lock by Master is entirely keyless and can easily be operated through its app that you can easily download on your mobile phones. Once configured, you can access the lock by a tap on your phone.
This reduces the chance of you missing your keys or keys getting in the wrong hand; no one can now duplicate your keys. You have the power to provide people with access to the lock on your will, and if someone tries to tamper with the lock, you will be notified immediately.
The lock provides excellent strength, and the defensive ability is further enhanced by features such as anti-shim locking technology. The battery can last up to 5 hours, and even if the battery dies, the Padlock just locks itself and won’t open unless you replace the batteries.
Being this futuristic, this lock doesn’t compromise with strength and the shackle is made of boron carbide, which is a strong material and can fight against sawing or cutting attempts. Additionally, you will also get a cover that will protect your lock from extreme weather conditions.
- This lock is not only versatile but is also effective in outdoor storage units. As a result, it is a solid and reliable option.
- Your storage unit lock can be shared among other people without you having to make duplicates of your keys.
- The lock notifies the owner if anyone tries to tamper with it.
- The app has a bad UI/UX and feels sluggish when using.
- The configuration is a little confusing at the start.
Factors to Consider Buying Lock for Storage Unit
While there are many great locks on this list, they all serve a different purpose to different conditions. How would you know which one is best for your situation?
I’ve closely used and researched about many locks and know what and which of buying locks. Here are some features that you will have to keep in mind before purchasing a security lock for your storage unit.
Lock Type:
There are several different locks; some are padlocks, close shackles, open shackles and many more. Some of these are made with extremely thick shackle, and others are made to fit in most places. Depending upon your use case and the size of the locker you are going to use the lock-in, you can choose a type of lock from the following major types:
Padlocks: A standard padlock is what most of us have commonly seen, containing an outer solid cover that closes the inside of the lock and uses a shackle to open or close the Padlock.
Usually, the outer body is made of hardened steel to withstand power tools that attempt to break the locks. The shackle length and diameter can defer depending on the Padlock you choose but are often made with durable and thick steel material.
Closed Shackle Padlocks: The shackle in the locks is the main thing that thieves try to cut and often succeed as they can’t be made as thick and durable as the Padlock body.
While the inner working of the closed shackle padlocks remains the same, the shackle in them are partially covered, and only a small portion is visible that is often not enough to attempt cutting on.
Open Shackle Padlocks: As you might have guessed already, these locks have most of their shackle visible, primarily as they are used in places where closed shackle locks can’t fit properly.
If you are buying a closed shackle padlock, make sure you choose one made of hardened steel material and thick diameter.
Combination Locks: These are high-security locks that operate on combination based passwords often selected by moving knobs.
These are well made, and for every knob, a different pin has to go correct to unlock the lock. They often come with thousands of variations and an anti-picking mechanism to prevent any theft attempts.
Shackle Diameter:
Well, you should always opt for the thickest shackle lock, right? Well, yes, the thickest ones will probably be more rigid and durable, but they will not fit in most of the locker holes due to the added thickness. In that case, you need to opt for the shackle type that can fit your locker hole and is strong also.
Always take a measure of your locker hole and ask the vendor or shopping online check-in the description about the shackle’s diameter and length.
Lock Material:
It is critically important to choose what lock material you need. It will determine how sturdy or costly your safety will be. Steel is the most common of them all, but even with steel, there are variants. Some are cheaper and less durable, while others are durable but costly.
A robust lock body will resist it against power tools and cutting chainsaws. Boron, Brass, Molybdenum, Brass and solid steel are the most common lock body materials and are all extremely strong.
Ball Bearings:
Ball bearings are the more secure type than the traditional loaded spring ones as they were too easy to break by force. With ball bearing, force breaking becomes difficult.
They are used in expensive locks and comes with a price tag, but if you really want to keep your storage secure, you would need to invest in locks made of high-quality materials.
Flexible:
Locks in public, drive-in storage units can become damaged if exposed for long periods to the weather.
So you need to get a lock that can support different changing weathers and indoor and outdoor environment. Locks made from high-quality materials resist any rusting or damage when used for an extended period in changing rough settings.
FAQs on Best Storage Unit Locks
When it comes to picking locks, which type is the hardest?
Smart locks are the most difficult ones to pick as they do not work on the traditional mechanism and cannot be picked using traditional ways; this makes them one of the most complex locks to pick. Also, combination locks are complicated to pick or even force break using power tools, as they can only be opened when all knobs are in the correct order.
Is the type of lock affected by the location of the storage unit?
Yes, the location does affect which type of lock you use. If your storage unit is in an ordinary place with average weather conditions, you can use almost any lock. Still, if you are using the lock-in in extreme conditions, then you might need a lock made with materials such as zinc or brass like 4 Digit Combination Padlock by Desired Tools.
Would it be worthwhile to purchase a lock with a complicated mechanism?
It depends; you might need that extra added security in some cases, but we don’t need that additional complicated locking mechanism for most of us. A lock should be smooth and should not waste our time. So, unless you really need that different level of added security, a complicated lock is overkill.
Do you have to provide access for multiple people in your unit?
Suppose you need to give different people access to your storage frequently. In that case, you might need to opt for a smart lock like Outdoor Personal Use Bluetooth PadLock by Master that can be accessed from anywhere and can provide access to as many people as you want while still monitoring who opens or locks it.
