Can I Run A Business From A Storage Unit?
Yes, you can run elements of a business from a storage unit. While you can’t register it as your official office, you can use it to store stock, pack orders, and improve your business operations.
If your business is growing and your home is shrinking under the weight of inventory, you might be wondering: “Can I run a business from a self-storage unit?”
And if you are thinking that - you’re not alone.
In recent years, self-storage has become an increasingly popular option for small businesses, freelancers, and side hustlers who need space without renting expensive space.
But before you move your entire business into a storage unit, it’s worth understanding what’s legal, what’s practical, and what’s best for your business.
In this guide, we’ll talk through exactly what you can and can’t do, who benefits most and what some alternative options might me.
What You Can Do from a Storage Unit
Self-storage units can be incredibly useful for businesses. Examples include:
Store inventory and supplies
Whether you’re selling online or running a seasonal business, storage units offer secure, climate-controlled space for keeping products, tools, promotional items, or raw materials safe.
Pack and fulfil orders
Got a growing e-commerce store? Many entrepreneurs use storage units as a packing station to prep and ship orders.
Use for quiet, solo admin tasks
While you can’t legally run your office from there, you can spend time in your unit catching up on paperwork or organising your stock, provided the facility allows it.
Store tools and equipment
Tradespeople like electricians, plumbers, and joiners often use storage units to safely store gear they don’t use every day.
Archive paperwork and documents
Lawyers, accountants, and consultants often need a safe space to store sensitive files they can’t digitise. Storage units can be a great solution.
What You Can't Do From a Storage Unit
It’s important to know the limits, especially if you’re considering using storage long-term.
Here are some absolute no-nos when it comes to storage:
You cannot register the unit as your business address.
You cannot invite employees or customers to work there.
You cannot live or work full-time in the unit.
You cannot store hazardous materials or live animals.
Most storage units are not designed to live and work from, which means they lack basic features like Wi-Fi, air flow, and emergency exits, all of which are needed for legal workspaces.
So, in short you can use a storage unit to run your business operationally, but you can't use it instead of an office.
Who Can Benefit From Using Storage Units for Business?
Many small businesses are finding smart ways to use self-storage as part of their business operations. Here are just a few examples
eBay, Amazon and Etsy sellers who want to declutter and organise their stock.
Online retailers who need space for picking, packing, and shipping orders.
Crafters and makers who want a clean, secure environment for tools and materials.
Personal trainers who need to store equipment between sessions.
Event planners who need centralised storage for props and materials.
Tradespeople who want to avoid leaving tools in vehicles overnight.
Professionals who need secure storage for paperwork and files.
Why Running a Business from a Storage Unit Can Be a Good Move
Let’s face it. Commercial rents can be brutal, and most small businesses don’t need a flashy office to get started.
Storage units are a good option because they are:
Cost-effective
Storage units are usually much cheaper than office or warehouse space. There are no utility bills, business rates, or long-term contracts.
Flexible
Need to scale up during busy seasons? No problem. Storage units come in various sizes with flexible rental terms.
Secure
Facilities offer CCTV, gated access, and unit alarms. You can store stock or equipment with peace of mind.
Convenient
Access your unit outside of typical working hours, get deliveries sent directly to the site, and use on-site extras like trolleys and packaging materials if available.
Alternative Options To Storage Units
If you love the idea of outsourcing storage but don’t want to deal with renting a whole unit, The Box Co. offers a better way.
We provide by-the-box storage and order fulfilment for small businesses. That means we collect your inventory or supplies, store it securely in our managed facility, and when you get an order, we pick, pack, and ship it for you.
No need to leave your house. No bulky storage units. No dealing with packing supplies at midnight.
Our service is perfect for e-commerce sellers, crafters, subscription box companies, clothing resellers, and startups looking to scale.
Want to reclaim your home and get back to building your brand? Let’s chat.
Alternatives For Actual Workspaces
If you need somewhere to actually work from, here are a few more practical options.
Coworking spaces give you access to desks, meeting rooms, Wi-Fi, and networking without the long-term commitment.
Virtual offices let you use a business address and mail handling services.
Home offices can still work, especially if you outsource storage and fulfilment.
Shared offices or business hubs provide affordable spaces in many towns and cities.
On-demand studios or office rentals can suit photographers, stylists, or creatives
Your storage unit can complement any of these options by keeping physical clutter out of your main workspace.
Things to Know Before You Start
Before committing to running part of your business from a storage unit, keep the following in mind.
Check the facility’s policy. Not all providers allow business-related use.
Understand local zoning laws, especially if you're storing large quantities.
Know the access hours. Not all units are open 24/7.
Most units don’t include power or Wi-Fi, so plan accordingly.
Make sure your stock is insured. Many companies offer optional storage insurance or require coverage.
How To Choose the Right Storage Provider
Not all storage companies are created equal. Here’s what to look for.
Business-friendly terms that support fulfilment, deliveries, and flexible space use.
Strong security features like CCTV, alarms, fire detection, and gated access.
The ability to scale up or down easily.
Extras such as shelving, packaging materials, and van hire.
A location near you or your customer base.
Or skip the logistics altogether and let The Box Co. handle your storage and fulfilment.
Storage Units For Business
So, can you run a business from a self-storage unit? Yes, but with some important caveats. You can’t run a full-time office from one, but for stock storage, packing orders, and keeping your space clutter-free, it’s a great option.
If you’re ready for a smarter, simpler option, The Box Co. can help. We offer by-the-box storage, pick-and-pack fulfilment, and flexible plans designed specifically for small businesses and growing brands.
Want to find out more? Contact The Box Co. today for a free, no obligations quote.
