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.
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.
With the arrival of our winter weather, many of your possessions will soon become redundant, with many hibernating in your garage, attic or spare room until winter is over. There are many self storage companies that can keep your summer items safe and secure in easy to access storage facilities, ensuring that they are immediately ready to use at the first hint of summer.
Having seasonal items taking up room in your house can also leave you and your living space a little cramped, particularly during the winter months when most of your living is done inside. Customers who use seasonal self-storage free up valuable space for those winter essentials when the garden shed, attic or garage is already full.
Creating space in your home by using a secure self storage facility can be a stress saver throughout the winter months but, before you do, why not follow these simple steps.
How to determine what summer items to store.
Before you can begin, you must first determine what stays and what goes into seasonal storage. Ask yourself questions, such as…
Some summer items to consider putting into seasonal storage, include:
Benefits of a seasonal storage swap
If you store in a self storage facility, you can swap your seasonal items in and out with ease.
Other benefits to seasonal storage include:
Extra room – No one likes clutter in their home – especially when it extends to the spare room, garages and outdoor areas. Should our Government guidelines allow us to this year – Having family stay over the holiday periods also means space at home is of a premium. Why struggle to accommodate when a quick and easy declutter can take away some of the stress.
Clean, dry Storage – Storing items in garden sheds, garages or under tarpaulin during the winter months can affect the condition of your belongings over time. With no warm sunshine to help dry them out, water, mould and mildew can wreak havoc on your belongings during the rainy season.
Secure – Storing your belongings in the garden shed, garage or under cover may give you the space you need inside your home but are they secure? A professional self storage company will have numerous security measures in place such as on-site security, CCTV, fire and intruder alarm systems with 24/7 monitoring to provide the best protection and peace of mind you and your belongings deserve.
If you need any help or advice with your self storage requirements then please don’t hesitate to contact us 7 days a week to suit your needs.
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.
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.
PACK YOUR ITEMS WELL
PLAN YOUR STORAGE SPACE
To find the storage solution to suit your needs, don’t hesitate to call us on 01600 735001 – We’re here to help.
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.
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.
When you move house, using self storage can be advantageous, not just for securely storing your belongings during or after the move, but also in the months leading up to your sale if you opt for home staging.
Home staging may be a term you’re unfamiliar with, but if you’ve been brought up on a diet of interior design shows, you will understand the concept.
Or perhaps you are aware of it, but can’t see the point of styling your home for sale?
So why bother?
If presentation is how we judge candidates at interviews, book covers in shops and food in a restaurant, why do we mistakenly believe that people are not swayed by a stylish living room?
Home stagers enable you to display your home in a way that makes it more attractive to viewers, enticing them to make an offer. It’s not simply a case of cleanliness and good taste luring people in.
Home staging, also referred to as property styling involves using props and furniture items to create this illusion.
What is home staging?
After the initial preparations of cleaning your house, decluttering and fixing instances of wear and tear, a staging expert will help you organise your home furnishings to make the property appear more spacious and attractive. The idea is to remove personal effects and establish a canvas.
Advantages of using a pro:
Home staging is not cheap, so it’s hard for sellers to justify spending money sprucing the place up for someone else to reap the benefit.
However, Right Move conducted a survey that revealed you can increase your selling price by 8% if you style your home ahead of putting it on the market.
Pricing models can be an agreed amount depending on the number of rooms that need dressing. Other experts may ask for a percentage of your sale.
If you choose to pay for a pro, you can expect the following:
Can you do it yourself?
Yes you can, and people are opting to do this.
If you choose to go over your walls in Magnolia before a house move, then you have already experienced home staging at a simpler level.
If you are considering the DIY route, here are some tips to take on board:
Props you can use:
Last thoughts:
You may be aware of standard Self Storage and may have used it before. Self Storage involves you usually hiring and fuelling a van to transport your items to a storage space where they are kept until you want to access or collect them. We also offer this service for those that have their own transport and that works well for a lot of our customers.
But what if you don’t want to hire a van or wish to make numerous trips back and forth using your own vehicle? This is where our Mobile Self Storage collection service helps save you time, money and effort as we will deliver one or more of our standard size warehouse storage units direct to your door aswell as provide FREE assistance to help load your belongings into the unit. This also allows to make sure your belongings are secure ready for transportation.
Our Mobile Self Storage service offers the same benefits as Self Storage – free access to your items as many times as you like and flexible storage terms but with the added bonus of transport. Not only does this mean there’s no need to hire and fuel a van but your items are not double handled as, once they are loaded into the storage unit, they stay there until you visit our secure warehouse facility to collect or we return the unit back to your property. This also means that you only pay for the storage space you use. Instead of hiring a storage unit that you may only partially use, we can book you as many units as you need until the move is complete. If you’re not sure how many units are required we will be happy to discuss your needs prior to booking or you can simply decide on the day and we will invoice you for the correct number of units once you’ve finished.
10 Benefits of Mobile Self Storage
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1. Storage unit delivered direct to your door.
2. Available 7 days a week.
3. No need to hire a van.
4. No need for a removal company.
5. No need to make numerous trips in your own car.
6. FREE assistance to help load your belongings.
7. Reduce the risk of damage – only load once.
8. FREE access to your unit whilst in storage.
9. All units remain securely stored inside our warehouse facility.
10. Located adjacent to the A40 – within easy driving distance of Monmouth, Ross-on-Wye and the Forest of Dean.
For further information and a video of how this service works, please visit www.selfstoreandmore.co.uk/mobile-self-storagehttp://www.selfstoreandmore.co.uk/mobile-self-storage.