This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in renting or leasing space for self-storage. These establishments provide secure space (i.e., rooms, compartments, lockers, containers, or outdoor space) where clients can store and retrieve their goods.

For the 2002 Economic Census, real estate investment trusts (REITS) were classified in Subsector 525, Funds, Trusts, and Other Financial Vehicles. However, for the 2007 Economic Census, the equity REITs are included in Industry Group 5311, Lessors of Real Estate, based on primary type of real estate property leased.