Why Use Self Storage?
As space is becoming a problem for many households and businesses, self storage has become the first choice for many. At some point, many of us will need a self storage unit whether it’s for home or business. The fact that it’s safe, convenient, reliable and affordable makes it even more attractive.
While there are several reasons why people use self storage, the most common include moving home or office, renovating, storing collectables, archiving and stock storage. It is even used by students and those who travel extensively as a safe haven for their belongings.
Most Common Reasons People Use Self Storage?
Not everyone has the luxury of having enough space at home to keep all of our belongings safe. This is particularly the case if it involves larger items that fill up open space very quickly. From small to medium businesses, households, students and travellers, here are some of the most common reasons why people use self storage and why you should consider it too.
Home Clear Out
We are connected to our stuff whether we like to admit it or not. People, in general, are reluctant to get rid of things even if they no longer use it and that’s where a home clear out is so important. Along with self storage, you can even keep things “just in case” like furniture or toys to help the kids when they eventually enter the expensive housing market.
Moving House
People often have to find a temporary residence when moving to a new house which means space could be an issue. If there’s nowhere to safely store your furniture, clothes, sporting equipment and garden tools while waiting for the new property to become available, self storage is the answer. It can help keep you organised by storing things temporarily and simply collecting it when everything is ready. It certainly beats the alternative of selling old stuff and buying everything new.
Home Renovations
With the rise in housing costs, many people are renovating instead of moving as it is more affordable. While it may be cheaper, renovations and extensions can be time-consuming but you can always rely on self storage to keep things safe while builders are in-and-out. It’s the ideal solution to store your valuables, keep the house clear of clutter and worker safety.
Downsizing Home Or Moving To A Smaller Office
Self storage is also widely used when moving into a smaller home or office space. If there are things you cannot take with to the new premises, keep them in self storage until a later date. You never know what will happen as you may want to relocate where the extra furniture or equipment could come in handy.
Baby On The Way
A baby can change all the dynamics of your current living situation as it often requires completely clearing out a room or making the home safer. This means packing away all the old stuff to make space for the cot and other baby essentials. If you have a spare bed that is ‘baby-ready’, simply put in storage along with the desk, chest of drawers and cabinets. When the little one turns 3 or so, you can collect and refurbish the room accordingly.
Students Going Home For The Holidays
Students will inevitably collect excess items when they are at university. Things like television, computer, sofa and bed to mention a few. If it’s not their final year and summer holidays are around the corner, they will not bring everything home just to take it all back the next term. If that is the case, consider renting a storage unit close to your university accommodation. It is a very small price to pay for absolute convenience and peace of mind over the summer holidays.
Taking A Gap Year
Today, many students take a gap year and travel before they enter the world of adulthood and work. Self storage is perfect for this as there may not be enough room at mum and dad’s place for all the extra stuff. This means they have nowhere to store their belongings from the time they leave university until they get back and move into their own place.
Working Abroad
For those who have been offered the opportunity to work abroad on an extended contract, look no further than a self storage unit. If you have a property, you will likely rent it out for additional passive income until you return and would prefer to keep your valuables safe.
Empty Nesters
There comes a time when all the kids have left, either for university or moving into their own place. Things change after every move as the eldest who leaves at 18 didn’t take his bed and desk which the youngest of 12 could use one day. To save space until then, or if you want to turn the newly emptied room into a study or crafts room, put everything in storage. Long-term storage contracts are typically cheaper than short-term agreements so you’ll save even more.
Garden Furniture, Tools & Equipment
Seasons dictate the type of garden furniture, equipment and tools we use and knowing what to do with everything will help. Summer furniture, toys and tools can go into the shed or garage but space could be limited thanks to the new table or lounger you bought. Considering that you are not going to use any of these items for a few months, why not put it all into self storage?
A Change In Relationship Status
A breakup or divorce is never a nice experience especially when partners were living together. One, or both, has to move out which means making arrangements to store their belongings until life gets back to normal.
Family Bereavement
Nobody likes talking about it but the sad fact is that many people will inherit a home with all its contents following a family bereavement. While some may be lucky enough to hold onto everything, others need to distribute the inheritance or pay the associated costs which means the house must be sold. Secure storage may not be a top priority at this point but it can really help when dealing with the aftermath of losing a relative or partner.
What About Business Storage?
We’ve already mentioned that businesses use self storage when they downsize but what are the other reasons? Safe and accessible business storage is essential and we are not talking about keeping files in lofts or garages either. Documents, stock, equipment and even vehicles need a safe place without taking up all the room at the office.
Fact is, a business storage unit can benefit all types of companies as it helps to minimise overheads. After all, a self storage unit with all the necessary room is much more affordable than renting additional warehouse space.
How Do Companies Use Business Storage?
Storage units can help ease some of the stresses that accompany a growing business. Truth is, retail business owners, artisans, e-commerce brands and other entrepreneurs can greatly benefit. Here’s a quick look at the types of businesses that use self storage.
- Publishers and Book Dealers
- Construction, Landscaping, Roofing and Painting Companies
- Electricians and Plumbers
- Retail and E-commerce Businesses
- Restaurants and Catering Companies
- Sales and Servicing Businesses
If you need any advice on how self storage can help you at home or work then please do not hesitate to contact us by phone, email, website enquiry form or Facebook Messenger.
We’re available 7 days a week.
Tips to planning a home renovation or extension.
If you love the location and feel of your home, but need more space to grow as a family, then adding an extension or renovating internal rooms may be the most attractive solution compared to moving. Extension or renovation work can be an exciting project that will breathe new life into your home and give you that much needed extra space to live and grow. It does however come with several logistical challenges as the work starts, and perhaps continues for a few months, until the work is completed. As with all projects, the key is in the planning.
Here are a few tips on how to effectively plan your home renovation to make it as stress-free as possible.
- Section the project
To begin with, start small and divide the project up into parts so that it does not become one daunting project. Start with one area at a time, prioritising those that are most in use. That way, you can tick those off the list first so that you could start to use them as quickly as possible if you chose to remain in your home during the renovation. This way you can also close off the renovation work in the evening or weekends and relax in comfort rather than live in a building site for weeks or months, which can soon become stressful.
- Work inside out
If you are hiring professionals to do structural or more technical changes, you’ll note that they usually start to work from the inside out. If you are doing a lot of it yourself, start inside the walls with plumbing and electrical and then move outward until you get to the more cosmetic changes, like paint and wallpaper.
- Leave it to the professionals when needed
If the changes you are planning to make are more technical or advanced, just remember you may have to live in this space until it is completed. If you are choosing to stay at home while renovating, this means that you will need to live in a space of disruption. Hiring a professional team could mean that the renovation is done quicker, and you can get your home back to normal.
- Make space for the renovation
During a renovation there is a lot of dust and materials that end up lying around as the project goes through the various phases. To avoid damage to your household items, why not consider storing them with a local self-storage company while the work is completed. Not only will it keep those items protected, but it will also allow for a faster project as the contractors will have an empty space to work with.
If you are renovating, extending or simply decorating your home, and need a secure space to store your household (or business) items, then please don’t hesitate to contact Self Store & More on 01600 735001 or 01594 840860.
We can even collect direct from your door using our Mobile Self Storage service.
Why do People use Self Storage?
As space is becoming a problem for many households and businesses, self storage has become the first choice for many. At some point, many of us will need a self storage unit whether it’s for home or business. The fact that it’s safe, convenient, reliable and affordable makes it even more attractive.
While there are several reasons why people use self storage, the most common include moving home or office, renovating, storing collectables, archiving and stock storage. It is even used by students and those who travel extensively as a safe haven for their belongings.
Most Common Reasons People Use Self Storage?
Not everyone has the luxury of having enough space at home to keep all of our belongings safe. This is particularly the case if it involves larger items that fill up open space very quickly. From small to medium businesses, households, students and travellers, here are some of the most common reasons why people use self storage and why you should consider it too.
Home Clear Out
We are connected to our stuff whether we like to admit it or not. People, in general, are reluctant to get rid of things even if they no longer use it and that’s where a home clear out is so important. Along with self storage, you can even keep things “just in case” like furniture or toys to help the kids when they eventually enter the expensive housing market.
Moving House
People often have to find a temporary residence when moving to a new house which means space could be an issue. If there’s nowhere to safely store your furniture, clothes, sporting equipment and garden tools while waiting for the new property to become available, self storage is the answer. It can help keep you organised by storing things temporarily and simply collecting it when everything is ready. It certainly beats the alternative of selling old stuff and buying everything new.
Home Renovations
With the rise in housing costs, many people are renovating instead of moving as it is more affordable. While it may be cheaper, renovations and extensions can be time-consuming but you can always rely on self storage to keep things safe while builders are in-and-out. It’s the ideal solution to store your valuables, keep the house clear of clutter and worker safety.
Downsizing Home Or Moving To A Smaller Office
Self storage is also widely used when moving into a smaller home or office space. If there are things you cannot take with to the new premises, keep them in self storage until a later date. You never know what will happen as you may want to relocate where the extra furniture or equipment could come in handy.
Baby On The Way
A baby can change all the dynamics of your current living situation as it often requires completely clearing out a room or making the home safer. This means packing away all the old stuff to make space for the cot and other baby essentials. If you have a spare bed that is ‘baby-ready’, simply put in storage along with the desk, chest of drawers and cabinets. When the little one turns 3 or so, you can collect and refurbish the room accordingly.
Students Going Home For The Holidays
Students will inevitably collect excess items when they are at university. Things like television, computer, sofa and bed to mention a few. If it’s not their final year and summer holidays are around the corner, they will not bring everything home just to take it all back the next term. If that is the case, consider renting a storage unit close to your university accommodation. It is a very small price to pay for absolute convenience and peace of mind over the summer holidays.
Taking A Gap Year
Today, many students take a gap year and travel before they enter the world of adulthood and work. Self storage is perfect for this as there may not be enough room at mum and dad’s place for all the extra stuff. This means they have nowhere to store their belongings from the time they leave university until they get back and move into their own place.
Working Abroad
For those who have been offered the opportunity to work abroad on an extended contract, look no further than a self storage unit. If you have a property, you will likely rent it out for additional passive income until you return and would prefer to keep your valuables safe.
Empty Nesters
There comes a time when all the kids have left, either for university or moving into their own place. Things change after every move as the eldest who leaves at 18 didn’t take his bed and desk which the youngest of 12 could use one day. To save space until then, or if you want to turn the newly emptied room into a study or crafts room, put everything in storage. Long-term storage contracts are typically cheaper than short-term agreements so you’ll save even more.
Garden Furniture, Tools & Equipment
Seasons dictate the type of garden furniture, equipment and tools we use and knowing what to do with everything will help. Summer furniture, toys and tools can go into the shed or garage but space could be limited thanks to the new table or lounger you bought. Considering that you are not going to use any of these items for a few months, why not put it all into self storage?
A Change In Relationship Status
A breakup or divorce is never a nice experience especially when partners were living together. One, or both, has to move out which means making arrangements to store their belongings until life gets back to normal.
Family Bereavement
Nobody likes talking about it but the sad fact is that many people will inherit a home with all its contents following a family bereavement. While some may be lucky enough to hold onto everything, others need to distribute the inheritance or pay the associated costs which means the house must be sold. Secure storage may not be a top priority at this point but it can really help when dealing with the aftermath of losing a relative or partner.
What About Business Storage?
We’ve already mentioned that businesses use self storage when they downsize but what are the other reasons? Safe and accessible business storage is essential and we are not talking about keeping files in lofts or garages either. Documents, stock, equipment and even vehicles need a safe place without taking up all the room at the office.
Fact is, a business storage unit can benefit all types of companies as it helps to minimise overheads. After all, a self storage unit with all the necessary room is much more affordable than renting additional warehouse space.
How Do Companies Use Business Storage?
Storage units can help ease some of the stresses that accompany a growing business. Truth is, retail business owners, artisans, e-commerce brands and other entrepreneurs can greatly benefit. Here’s a quick look at the types of businesses that use self storage.
- Publishers and Book Dealers
- Construction, Landscaping, Roofing and Painting Companies
- Electricians and Plumbers
- Retail and E-commerce Businesses
- Restaurants and Catering Companies
- Sales and Servicing Businesses
If you need any advice on how self storage can help you at home or work then please do not hesitate to contact us by phone, email, website enquiry form or Facebook Messenger.
We’re available 7 days a week.
How can self storage help your business?
Business Storage – The Right Decision?
Office space, warehouse space, floor space at your showroom – space comes at a premium for many businesses. Especially now as rents and business rates across the country are becoming more and more expensive, forcing businesses to stop and think about how to make the most out of what they have.
But what about all the space you need for storage? The space which is taken up by documents, unused stock or rarely-used equipment? You need to keep these things secure, but if you keep them on-site you might be using valuable space that could be used for more profitable activities.
That’s where a professional self-storage facility can save you money, time and effort.
Free Up Valuable Space
It can sometimes be difficult to concentrate at work if there are obstacles cluttering up your office space. It can therefore be really refreshing to have a clear out and store goods that you don’t use every day in a secure storage unit.
Self-storage providers can offer you a range of options and sizes to suit your business needs. Whether you are looking to store seasonal or slow-moving stock, unused displays or equipment or simply need to keep past accounts or paperwork safe until they are no longer required, there is always a solution on hand. You can then put the space you’ve freed up to a more productive use and hopefully become more efficient and profitable.
Safe, Secure and Hassle-Free
The first question you may ask is “how will my items be stored?”
It’s a good question and one worth asking. After all, if you’re trusting a storage provider with years of accounting and invoice documents, or next season’s product range, you need to know that you’re putting your items in safe hands.
Whenever you are considering a self-storage company, always telephone or visit to ask about security, access, prices (obviously!) and availability. Make sure they take security seriously. Ask about who has access to your unit in an emergency, what CCTV, Insurance, Fire and Intruder alarm provision they have. A steel storage unit in a yard may be cheap but it’s no good if anyone can drive in, have a look around and then break-in without any staff, CCTV or alarms to contend with. Never compromise your business stock and livelihood (or heirlooms) for the sake of a few ££’s saving per month.
Access 7 days a week is always a benefit so make sure you ask. It could be very frustrating if you can’t get those all-important belongings, displays or files on the weekend or after your working day, especially if you need them to prepare for tomorrow’s presentation or meeting.
Convenience
Your goods may currently be in disarray, making it difficult to find the things you need when you need them. If you invest in business self-storage you will be able to place your items in racks that are easy to access and can be labelled accordingly. That way, whenever you need to find a specific box or item you can do so without wasting time and effort looking through the disorganised pile of boxes piled in the corner of your office or workshop or deep in a cupboard under the stairs.
If you’re a tradesperson and normally have to store tools in the home, garage or shed overnight, self-storage could be a much more convenient and secure option. Or if you are having a complete refurbishment, self-storage will ensure that your work equipment is safely out the way from potential damage or dust.
If you need any further advice about how we can help you with your storage needs, then please get in contact with us at Self Store & More.
We also rent office and workshop space on flexible, cost effective agreements so why not consider having your storage and office in the same location for ease of use. Your monthly rent covers business rates, heat, light & power, 24-hour access, car parking, CCTV and alarm systems, use of communal areas, on-site management, building insurance and the option to use our high speed fibre broadband.
Building Work – Don’t let your dreams turn into a disaster.
With the warm weather and longer days, you’ll want to get all your building work or renovations done now. After all, having work done in the house when it’s pouring down is no fun at all – in fact, it can be a major inconvenience!
While the workers you hired are happy to get on with their tasks, you’re probably on standby with the hoover to catch any dust or are busy keeping the kettle on the boil for any on-demand brews.
This is all fine. The problem begins when you have to tuck all of your belongings away. This can be a bit challenging and send your stress levels sky high. Of course, it doesn’t have to be like that. Building work shouldn’t be synonymous with building stress.
No Space, No Problem
If you don’t have a lot of space in your home you will probably need to move your furniture about. After all, the workers need to move around freely without being hindered by your furniture. However, you may not be able to place your furniture in another room of your home, especially if you don’t have a spare bedroom (and piling your stuff on top of your other stuff is far from ideal)!
And can you imagine anything worse than having to take out all of your furniture and put it on the kerb while you have work done in the house? You’ll soon get tired of explaining to your neighbours that no, you’re not having a garage sale or quickly trying to cover your prized possessions in plastic during the unexpected rainfall.
On the other hand, putting your furniture in storage temporarily, can solve all of your problems. You don’t have to worry about space and will have peace of mind of knowing that everything is safe and ready for you to collect when you want.
Damage Can Be Real… Very Real
If the work you’re having done has even a slight chance of damaging your belongings, you’re likely to be stressed about it. It could be simple paintwork, a mess about with the water pipes, or the installation of a new floor.
No matter why you’ve called workers to your home, the last thing you want is to be on edge worrying about your antique table or model car collection.
The only sure way to ensure you can avoid any damage to your belongings is to get them out of the house! By placing them in storage, you can rest assured that your belongings will be well-taken care of and there’s no way they will get damaged during the building work.
The Old “I’ll Just Cover This with Plastic”
No matter how long workers take to finish the job, it’s likely you won’t want to live in a crinkly mess for that time. Maybe you’re having the house painted or maybe you’re finally getting that wall knocked down to make more room for a baby – instead of resorting to plastic, have you considered putting your belongings in storage?
This way, your home will still look tidy (well, as tidy as it can be when you’re having work done…) and you don’t have to live in a plastic nightmare!
Take Advantage of Self Store & More’s range of storage options to suit your needs
Be it because you don’t want to keep moving furniture around or because you’re afraid that despite your precautions your possessions may still end up damaged – take a look at our range of self storage options available as we are sure there is a solution to suit your needs.
The alternative is to keep covering the furniture with cloth or plastic sheets, keep moving each piece around as needed (especially difficult if they weigh a ton, making you regret getting that solid oak dresser!), and constantly and obsessively checking for any marks or chipped corners. Not to mention the inconvenience of clambering around and over all the out-of-place items.
Why go through all that?
With building work ongoing, life is often stressful enough. So, don’t add to it by stressing about your belongings all the time.
Why not visit our website pages and take a look at the following options to find out which solution suits your needs? Of course, if you wish to discuss your requirements with an experienced member of staff then please do not hesitate to call our 24/7 customer support service, email [email protected] or complete our website Quote Request Form.
• Warehouse Storage Units – Available in three different sizes
• Mobile Self Storage Collection Service – Save time, money & effort on removals and van hire and let us collect direct from your door.
• Store @ Your Door – Why not have a secure storage unit delivered and sited at your home – the most convenient storage solution you’ll find.
• Steel Storage Units – Available is 8’, 10’, 20’ and 40’ lengths
• Heated Store Rooms – Starting from only 45 sq. ft
Access to all of our units are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (some by appointment only) so, if you need to collect, drop off or simply have a look through your items, we will be here to help when it suits you.
For further information, please have a read through our website or contact us 7 days a week to find out how we can help protect your possessions in a cost effective, convenient and stress free way.