Can I Access My Storage Unit On Bank Holidays In The UK?
No, many storage units will limit access on bank holidays in the UK - but this will depend on the storage company.
Different storage facilities have different rules when it comes to access - some offering 24/7 access 365 days a year, and some with specific opening hours.
At The Box Co., we bring your storage to you. To make things as easy as possible, we’ll pick your belongings up right from your door, store them and bring them back whenever you need them - even on a bank holiday! Get in touch today to find a flexible, affordable storage solution for you.
Is Access To Self Storage Facilities 24 Hours?
This will always depend on the storage facility. Some self storage facilities pride themselves on full accessibility. This means that tenants can access their storage units at any time - usually with a key or access code.
However, some self storage facilities have strict access rules and have certain hours during which you can access your storage.
Why Do Some Storage Units Have Limited Access on Bank Holidays?
On bank holidays, company staff usually have the day off, meaning that there may be no one there to keep an eye on the storage facilities. Here are some of the main reasons why some storage facilities offer limited access on bank holidays:
Security
The main reason why self storage facilities offer limited access is to maximise security. With limited access or access by authorised persons only, the storage company helps to stop the wrong people entering and keeps people’s storage extra safe.
Prevent vandalism and damage
By controlling who comes in and out of the storage facility, it minimises the risk of anything happening to the storage units.
Full monitoring
When only authorised persons access the facility (with things like access codes), the facility managers can know exactly who enters and exits - helping to keep the premises secure.
Convenience
Storage units and warehouses are often in locations which are off-the-beaten track. If access controls only permit authorised persons, storage tenants have no need to go to the storage unit - instead, the storage company can organise for people’s belongings to be collected and dropped off whenever they need.
How Quickly Can I Get Back My Stored Items After a Bank Holiday?
Items can usually be retrieved quickly after a bank holiday, usually the very next day - either by arranging a pickup to the facility during access hours or, with certain services like The Box Co., getting them delivered back to you.
However, the speed in which you get your stored items will depend on a few things:
Operating hours
Some storage facilities only allow access during certain hours so you’ll need to check in advance. They may also be closed on certain days, like bank holidays, so it’s always worth checking before you go to avoid disappointment.
Notice periods
Depending on the storage facility, you may need to let them know whether you are planning to pick up your items. Some require up to a few days of notice. Your contract will likely explain the policy regarding notice periods.
Minimum storage duration
Certain contracts, especially if they are new, may have a minimum commitment period. This could be one week, one month, or something else. Check with your storage facility to see whether this is applicable.
Payments on time
If you’ve missed your payments, your access to the storage unit may be restricted until you are able to repay the debt. For those planning on collecting items from the storage unit, make sure that your payments are up to date!
What Happens if I Need My Items During a Bank Holiday?
If you need access to your storage unit and the facility is closed, you will not be able to get your items from storage. For storage facilities that close on bank holidays, access will not be permitted on that day.
The best course of action is to plan ahead. If you know that you are going to need certain items from your storage unit, make sure to get them before the bank holiday and keep them in your house or another safe place that is more accessible.
Some storage companies have emergency access policies. Depending on the urgency of the situation, you could contact the facility to see if they offer any emergency access. This is usually at an additional fee.
Alternatively, if you opt for a storage by the box company, you will be able to arrange a return for whenever suits you - even on a bank holiday!
As most traditional storage units are closed on bank holiday, you will usually need to wait until the next working day to access your items.
What Storage Should You Choose if You Want Unlimited Access?
If you want unlimited access, choose a storage facility that offers 24/7 opening hours or storage by the box, - where you can request your items back whenever you need them.
This offers maximum convenience as you don’t even need to go to the storage unit.
If you want a storage solution with total flexibility, check out our flexible solutions at The Box Co. Rather than waiting for a storage unit to open, you can have your items back to you as soon as you need them - we’ll even bring them straight to your door!
What Items Should You Never Store in a Storage Unit?
If you need regular access to something it’s probably best to keep it with you. For example, any important documents (i.e. passport, driving license, etc.) should always be kept in your home for easy access.
Similarly, if you use items or equipment frequently, it is probably easier not to keep it in a storage unit as you may be limited in how often you can access it.
Things To Consider When Choosing a Storage Unit
When you’re considering different storage options, you might want to think about:
Flexibility
Flexibility is going to be a big factor when choosing where to store your items. For maximum flexibility and convenience, choose a storage by the box company like The Box Co. You can get your items back whenever you need without even having to leave the house.
Accessibility
One of the main things to consider when choosing a storage unit is the accessibility. From disabled access and parking to the location of the facility. If you are going to need to access your items during storage, you will need to consider how easy it is to access and will want a storage unit near you.
More convenient facilities in better locations usually cost more money. The easiest option is to choose a storage by the box company that collects your items for you and delivers them to you whenever you need them.
Heavy lifting equipment
If you’re storing heavy items, you want to make your life as easy as possible so make sure the storage facility has a forklift service or equipment such as pallet trucks and trolleys available.
Want to avoid the heavy lifting altogether? Opt for a storage service that handles that for you with collection and delivery by professional movers.
Opening hours
Check the opening hours of your storage facility before you make a decision. If you require regular access to your items while they’re in storage, you’ll want to know when you can go. Not all storage facilities offer 24/7 access so check the hours and any days they’re not operating such as bank holidays.
Storage Items Delivered To You - Whenever You Need
At The Box Co., we make things as easy as possible. Our secure storage facilities are accessed by authorised persons only to ensure maximum safety. And, whenever you need your items just let us know and we can return them straight to you whenever you need. Even on bank holidays.
We believe in convenience, which is why we’ll have your items returned straight to your door within 24 hours. No need to access a facility or handle any heavy lifting - we’ve got you covered. Talk to our team today to discuss your storage needs!
