Self storage done Rite

As the self-storage industry has grown to more than 50,000 facilities across the United States, it seems like there are locations everywhere you look. To put it into perspective, there are as many self-storage centers as all Starbucks, Dunkin’ Donuts, McDonald’s and Taco Bell locations in this country combined. 

In Ohio alone, there are nearly 1,800 self-storage facilities and couple dozen just in the Wadsworth area, stretching from Medina to Rittman. With so many choices, how do you know which is best for you?

One local business, Rent Rite Storage, stands out from the rest with its unique blend of old-school mentality and modern technology. Its winning combination? The perfect mix of personal customer service and high-tech convenience.

“When people call us, they are surprised to hear a real person answer the phone instead of an automated system,” says Matt Schmahl, who, along with his wife Laura, owns the storage company. “Either my wife or I take the calls personally and help customers with the leasing process and answer questions. For those who prefer digital, it could not be simpler. You can complete the rental form online in just a few clicks and gain access to your new storage unit within minutes.”

“We are a family-owned, local company—not a national franchise,” says Laura, a nurse and mother of two daughters, whose caring demeanor translates to the business side. “We take pride in offering a more personal touch.”

On the Grow

Major life events often are the driving force behind the need for storage. These so-called “Five Ds” include downsizing, dislocation, disaster, divorce and death. But a sixth D—distribution—has led to a recent surge in storage demand. It is also the impetus for Rent Rite’s expansion at its Medina location.

“We are adding 12 larger units, each 480 square feet, along with 13 900-square-foot flex spaces ideal for boats, RVs or business use,” Matt says.

“Over the years, demand for larger units has dramatically increased as businesses have shifted the way they operate,” he adds. “Many small businesses and e-commerce companies no longer need traditional storefronts or massive warehouses. Instead, they’re turning to self-storage to keep their inventory, equipment and supplies as it’s often more cost-effective. We lease to a variety of businesses, from landscapers to roofing companies to plumbers and more.”

“We are excited to open these larger units in September,” says Matt, noting pre-leasing is underway. “The flex space area has a restroom, wi-fi and a secure access control system.”

It Rittman, the company has added 25 climate-controlled units for customers who have more sensitive items that need the temperature and humidity regulated. 

To service the Wadsworth area, Rent Rite has locations nearby south in Rittman, north in Medina and east in Akron. There is also a facility in Beach City, which is between Wooster and Sugarcreek, and future locations are planned for Lodi, Seville and Burbank. 

“We are proud to be a local Northeast Ohio company,” Matt says. “As we continue to grow, personalized customer service remains our hallmark.” 

As Simple as One, Two, Click

Whether you prefer the ease of renting a storage unit online in just a few clicks and driving right in, or you’d rather have someone personally assist you, Rent Rite Storage guides you through the process.

“When we started the company 10 years ago, we emulated the Amazon one-click model as we can rent out a unit at any time to anyone. With our advanced software, customers can go online, text, or email us the lease. Once they sign electronically, they receive a gate code and can move in within minutes,” Matt says. “On the flipside, if someone needs help, we’re happy to talk with them, walk them through the lease process and get them moved in just as quickly.”

Rent Rite has units ranging in size from 5-by-10 feet all the way up to 18-by-50 feet, along with outdoor storage suitable for cars, trucks, boats, RVs and construction equipment. With gated entry, digital video surveillance, full fencing and bright lighting, security is a top priority. And thanks to 24-hour access, wide driveways and drive-up units, convenience is built in.



“We take pride in our transparent pricing as there are no hidden fees or processing charges,” Matt adds. “All our leases run month-to-month and auto renew until you are ready to move out.”

Rent Rite Storage has eight locations serving Northeast Ohio. For more information, call 800-897-5818 or visit RentRiteStorage.com.