
How Much Is Storage Per Month In The UK?

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The cost of self-storage in the UK ranges from around £60 to £300 per month, depending on the size of the unit, where you are in the country, and what extras you need.
Whether you're moving house, renovating, or just need somewhere to stash your stuff, self-storage can be a lifesaver.
But how much should you expect to pay each month?
That depends on a few key things: location, unit size, how long you need it for, and whether you want any extras like climate control or insurance.
In this guide, we’ll break it all down so you can make an informed decision and avoid paying more than you need to.
What Affects the Price of Self Storage in the UK?
Let’s start with the basics.
Size
Storage units are usually priced by square footage, and unsurprisingly, the bigger the unit, the higher the monthly cost. But size isn’t the only thing that matters.
Location
Location plays a massive role too. London and the South East are the most expensive areas, while the North, West Midlands, and Scotland tend to offer more affordable options.
Duration
How long you plan to rent the unit can also impact the price. Many providers offer deals like "first 8 weeks half price" or discounts for year-long contracts.
Extras
And then there are the extras. Some facilities include 24/7 access, CCTV, climate control, or even onsite staff to accept deliveries.
Others charge separately for things like insurance, padlocks, or even access hours. So it pays to check the fine print.
UK Self Storage Pricing: National Averages
According to the Self Storage Association (SSA) UK's 2024 Annual Report, the average rental rate for self-storage units across the country is £26.23 per square foot per year.
That works out to around £109 per month for a 50 sq. ft. unit. Prices have gone up by about 1% from the previous year, and regional variations are big.
Here’s what you might expect to pay each month, based on unit size:
Small units (20–50 sq ft) typically cost between £80 and £150 per month.
Medium-sized units (75–150 sq ft) are usually in the range of £150 to £300.
Large units - For anything over 200 sq ft, you’re likely starting from £300 a month and going up depending on the facility and features.
Regional Price Differences in the UK
Storage costs can differ a lot depending on where you are in the country. Here’s a quick overview of average monthly prices for 25, 50, and 75 sq ft units:
Region | 25 sq. ft. | 50 sq. ft. | 75 sq. ft. |
---|---|---|---|
London | £81.79 | £163.58 | £242.50 |
Scotland | £50.85 | £101.70 | £149.19 |
North England | £43.48 | £86.96 | £127.75 |
West Midlands & Wales | £40.88 | £81.75 | £127.14 |
South East (excl. London) | £58.48 | £116.96 | £181.50 |
(Prices from SSA UK 2024. Excludes VAT/insurance.)
Storage-By-The-Box: A Flexible Alternative
If you don’t have loads to store or don’t want to pay for a whole unit, there is another option.
Companies like The Box Co. offer storage-by-the-box, which means you only pay for the space you actually use.
We collect your items, store them, and return them when you need them. Prices start from just £3.56 per box per month, with £100 insurance included.
This model can work out much cheaper than renting a full unit, especially if you’re only storing a few boxes or smaller items.
Plus, you avoid paying for location premiums, since pickup and delivery are included.
What’s Usually Included In The Price Of Storage?
A monthly storage fee will usually include access to your unit, some level of security (like CCTV and gated entry), and customer support. But not all providers are equal.
Some charge extra for things like insurance, padlocks, 24/7 access, or even trolleys and loading bays. Always double-check what’s included in your quote.
At some facilities, you might also need to factor in deposits, notice periods, or minimum rental durations. Others might include extras like free van hire, forklifts, or onsite parking.
The Box Co., for example, includes pickup, storage, and return, as well as insurance, which can make budgeting a lot easier.
Hidden Fees To Be Aware Of
Some storage companies advertise attractive base rates but add charges for things like late payments, upsizing your unit, or even early contract termination.
Always read the small print and ask what happens if you need to extend, cancel, or change unit sizes midway through your rental.
Another sneaky cost is VAT. Some companies quote prices without VAT, so make sure you're comparing like for like when shopping around.
Is It Worth Paying For Storage?
That depends entirely on your situation.
If you’re between homes, moving abroad temporarily, renovating, or running out of space, storage can be incredibly convenient. It’s also useful for businesses needing extra inventory space without signing a long-term lease.
The key is not to overpay.
Choose the smallest space you can get away with, consider sharing with a friend if your items don't fill a full unit, and always ask about discounts for longer stays or first-time users.
If you don’t need regular access, look into cheaper options outside major cities or go with a box-based service like The Box Co.
Getting The Best Storage Deal
Start by figuring out exactly how much space you need. Many companies have online storage calculators to help, or you can call and talk it through with a staff member.
Try The Box Co.'s Storage Calculator.
Next, compare quotes from different companies and check for first-month offers or long-term deals. Always clarify what's included in the price and what comes extra.
And remember, the best value isn’t always the cheapest price. It’s the storage option that meets your needs, keeps your belongings safe, and doesn’t surprise you with hidden costs.
If you're looking for self-storage that’s simple, flexible, and cost-effective, visit The Box Co. to get a free quote today.