The short version: Storage unit clearance means selling what has value, donating the rest, and emptying the unit so rent stops. A storage unit can easily cost over $1,000 a year, which adds up fast when you're paying to store things you don't even want. PIMMS Storage Exit markets contents for 45 days, you keep 100% of sale proceeds, then donation and final cleanout of leftovers, starting at $988.
Why East Bay units sit unpaid for years
People keep units after a move, a death, or a divorce because sorting feels worse than writing another rent check. California operators have to follow state pricing disclosure rules, but rent still adds up. A unit that costs even a modest monthly rate can exceed the resale value of the contents within a year.
PIMMS built Storage Exit for Antioch and East Bay clients who want out without a dumpster as the first move.
Lien auction vs hiring someone to sell your own contents
If you default, the facility can lien and sell contents under self-storage law. That path protects the operator, not your return. Selling your own contents before it gets there is a different job with a much better outcome for you.
When the unit is still yours, you can hire a reseller, an auction company, or a cleanout crew. A local reseller who already lists furniture can skip the sold-as-is, sight-unseen auction discount.
What a professional storage exit includes
Review of how full the unit is and what categories sit inside. 45 days of professional marketing and sales where reasonably possible. Client keeps 100% of sale proceeds on the Storage Exit offer. Help coordinating donation and final cleanout of what didn't sell.
Details and the intake form live on PIMMS Storage Exit.
Which contents are worth the effort?
Furniture, tools, sealed housewares, and name-brand electronics often cover part of the exit fee. Loose papers, stained mattresses, and half-used paint usually don't. Honest photos beat a locked-door auction peek. Send a video walk-through if you can't be on site.
Timeline: 45 days of selling, then cleanout
The selling window is 45 days so listings have time to find buyers without another year of rent. After that, remaining items go toward donation and cleanout so the lock can come off. If you need the unit empty ASAP, say so on the form. PIMMS can still tell you whether the mix of items supports a full Storage Exit or a faster haul-off.
How to request a free unit review
Use the free storage unit review. Include city or facility name, how full the unit is, item types, and how soon you need it empty. Photos or a short video help.