How does self storage work?
Anyone can use self storage – business owners (from large corporations to start-ups), families, students and house movers, to name but a few, and most people end up needing self-storage at least once in their lifetime. That means a lot of first-time customers who may not be sure about how self storage works. If you’re looking at renting storage space for the first time or just aren’t sure what self-storage is then don’t worry as the below will help get you started.
What is self storage?
Self storage is a service that enables people, whether it’s individuals or businesses, to rent storage space remotely. This is usually because they don’t have enough space on their own premises or because what they want to store doesn’t need to be kept on premises and is therefore potentially wasting the space it is using.
Self storage facilities are all different and may specialise in particular areas or industries or offer different amenities and additional services, but all storage facilities should offer some basic necessities.
Security – CCTV and alarm security systems should all be in place to ensure your goods always stay safe and secure.
Clean and dry space – storage units should always be clean and dry to protect your goods against damp and other damage.
Accessible – whether there are clearly outlined working hours with a member of staff available or secure pin-code access for 24/7 access, you should know when you can get to your goods and should always have access during these times.
Why do people need self storage?
Self storage is born out of the necessity for more space, but there are many reasons why people may need more space in their life. For individuals looking at personal storage one of the most popular reasons is moving house where it is often necessary to store some or all furniture and personal items between properties.
Personal storage is also great for keeping your items safe and making space for renovation at home, decluttering and claiming back previously unused space in the home or simply because your property is too small for some of your more sentimental but rarely used belongings. Students especially may require storage for keeping their personal effects during the summer between student housing or while they travel.
For businesses, storage space can be used as additional stock space and mini-warehousing, a central hub for storing stock and running an online business, archiving old documents that are still needed for legal reasons, storing bulky exhibition equipment that is only needed once or twice a year and even as affordable office space to run the businesses itself.
How can you rent self storage?
Renting your own storage space is relatively straightforward but it can be hard to know where to start or be confused by some of the processes if you’ve never done it before. Here’s a step by step guide on how self storage works and what to do.
Choose your location and narrow down your search
Deciding your location will have a huge influence on which facility you eventually end up with but it doesn’t have to be the sole determining factor. Different areas in the UK will cost differently, for example self storage in London costs significantly more than elsewhere. While you may need to be near your belongings and this may restrict you, if you can look elsewhere and can travel a bit further than you may benefit by getting more affordable space.
Decide on your type of storage
The type of storage solution you need will also help determine which storage facility you choose as not all of them will offer what you need. If you’re moving to a new house or just need storage for yourself or your family then you’ll just need personal storage, but if you’re a business then you’ll want a facility that can better meet your needs. Some may specialise more in archiving or bespoke offices, or you may want a storage company that can do it all. All of this may determine whether you need single box storage, standard storage space, container storage or even bespoke office space.
Choose your unit size
You’ll then need to decide on the size of unit to suit your needs, which is the main factor for determining how much your storage solution will cost. At Self Store & More we are always happy to discuss your needs in detail and use our years of experience to guide you to the right unit size before any decision is made. There a few things to be aware of when choosing the size, such as whether you need to access any of the things you are storing. If you do, then you may want a larger space to create walkways and room to get around your unit.
Reserve your unit
Once you’ve confirmed which storage facility you’re using and have decided on the unit you want to secure you can either reserve your unit or move your belongings in straight away.
Move in
You can move in at a time that suits you depending on the hours of the facility you choose. Your storage company may even be able to help you to organise any removals. At Self Store & More we also offer a cost effective collection service using our portable warehouse units (visit our Mobile Self Storage page for more details on how this service can save you time, money and effort). Always ask for advice on the best way to pack your belongings and organise your storage unit to suit your needs and to make the most of the space you have. From there you can access your unit anytime you want according to your facility times, which is 24/7 for the majority of our storage solutions.
Move out – No Notice Period Required
If you want to move out at any point, you don’t even need to give us any notice as we like to offer the best flexibility to suit your needs. Simply let us know when you are moving out and a member of staff will be on site to receive the key to our padlock (provided free of charge) and thank you for your valued custom.
Ready to reserve your own storage space today? Give us a call, fill in our easy quote request form or come in and see us.