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 its 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.
What Are The 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 And Self Storage
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.
Recommended: ‘Home Improvements That Will Add Value To Your Home’
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.
A storage unit helps you keep everything safe and easy to collect when you need it or have space for it. Think about it logically; storing £20,000 furniture, equipment or tools in a 40 sq ft storage unit for £720 per year is more sensible then selling everything for less than half price and having to buy similar items later with inflation.
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 student 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.
Extended Holidays
In addition to graduates taking a gap year, self storage can also be used when going on an extended holiday. If you have finally planned that long-awaited trip to Vietnam and Thailand or an extended boating holiday cruising around the canals on a narrowboat, simply rent a storage unit for a few months.
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 And 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? Here are also a few handy tips on protecting your garden furniture.
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
Related: ‘Why Do Businesses Use Storage Units?’
Self Storage Bristol, Stroud and Gloucester
For quality, flexible and affordable storage solutions, contact any of our facilities located in Bristol, Stroud and Gloucester. If you like, you can visit any of our branches or take the virtual tour of Gloucester and Stroud.
We offer FREE insurance up to £3000 without any upfront deposits and you can use our provider or your own. Our units are purpose-built for household storage, business storage and student storage with guaranteed prices for 12 months. There’s no small print and we also don’t tie you to long term contracts!