Can You Put Your Items In Storage Without Renting A Whole Unit?

Yes - it’s absolutely possible to store your items without renting a full-sized storage unit.

In fact, more and more people are turning to flexible options that let them pay only for the space they actually use.

Whether you're storing a few boxes during a house move or clearing out seasonal items, there are smarter, more affordable ways to keep your things safe.

This guide looks at the alternatives to renting a full storage unit, how they work, and whether they might be right for your needs.

 

What Are My Options If I Don't Want To Rent A Whole Unit?

 

If you only need to store a few things, renting a full storage unit often feels like too much p both in space and cost. Fortunately, two main alternatives offer far more flexibility: storage by the box and shared storage.

 

Storage by the box

Storage by the box is a service that allows you to pay for storage per item or per box, rather than committing to a fixed-size unit.

You pack your items, and the company collects and stores them for you. When you need something back, you simply request it and it’s delivered to your door. It’s a great solution for storing smaller loads without the stress of transporting items yourself.

 

 

Shared storage

Shared storage, on the other hand, involves splitting the cost of a larger unit with another person.

This could be a friend, family member, or even a colleague. While it can be a great way to reduce costs, it does require a level of trust and clear communication to ensure the arrangement runs smoothly.

See our guide around Can I share a storage unit with another person.

 

How Are These Different from Traditional Self Storage?

 

Traditional self-storage involves renting a space - usually a room or container - to use entirely for yourself.

You’re responsible for moving your stuff into the unit, organising them, and collecting them when needed. These units come in a variety of sizes, but they can be expensive if you're not using all the space.

Storage by the box is a more modern approach. You only pay for what you use, and many services include collection, delivery, and even packing materials. 

Shared storage falls somewhere in between. You still rent a traditional unit, but the cost is split with someone else. The main difference here is that you’re sharing the space - and the responsibility - with another person.

 

How Much Does Storage by the Box Cost?

 

One of the biggest advantages of storage by the box is how cost-efficient it is.

Instead of paying a fixed monthly rate for a unit that might be half-empty, you're charged based on how many boxes you’re storing.

Prices start from around £3.56 per box per month with The Box Co. though this can be more expensive with other companies. 

Some companies also offer insurance as part of the package, while others may charge extra for premium protection or specialist storage (like for electronics or fragile items).

You can also save more if you choose long-term storage plans, for example, storing for six months or more. And because you’re not hiring a van or buying heavy-duty locks, the overall cost is often lower than traditional self-storage.

 

 

When Does Storage by the Box Make the Most Sense?

 

Storage by the box is great when you only have a few items to store, or when convenience is just as important as cost.

People often use this service when they’re moving home and need to store a few boxes temporarily, during renovations, or while decluttering a flat.

It’s also a popular option for students who are heading home for the holidays and want to avoid dragging everything back and forth.

Likewise, those living in city flats with limited storage space find box-based storage particularly useful for offloading seasonal items like winter coats, ski gear, or Christmas decorations.

Because you're not renting a full room, you can avoid overpaying for empty space, making it a smarter option when your storage needs are small or temporary.

 

What Are the Benefits of Storage by the Box?

 

Cost

The most obvious benefit is cost. Traditional self-storage units often give you more space than you actually need - and that means paying for square footage you’re not using. With storage by the box, you’re charged per item, so you only pay for what you store.

 

Convenience

Convenience is another major plus. Many box-based services provide the materials, collect your packed items, and store them in a secure facility. When you want your things back, you simply schedule a return - no heavy lifting required.

This kind of door-to-door service removes the need to hire a van or spend your weekend driving back and forth to a storage site.

 

Flexibility

Flexibility is also a key advantage. You can store items for as little or as long as you need, and some services offer online inventory systems so you can view and manage what you’ve stored at any time. It’s a low-commitment, high-convenience solution that suits modern lifestyles.

 

How Do I Know My Items Are Safe?

 

It’s understandable to be worried when storing your stuff off-site, especially if you’re not visiting a physical unit yourself. Good box storage companies take security seriously, offering many of the same protections you'd expect from traditional self-storage.

Many services also include insurance as standard, or offer affordable upgrades depending on what you’re storing. 

If transparency matters to you, look for a company that offers a digital inventory system.

This allows you to log what’s in each box and request specific items when needed - without opening everything just to find your favourite jumper.

 

Is Storage by the Box Right for You?

 

If you’re looking for a flexible, affordable, and stress-free way to store your stuff, then yes - storage by the box is likely a great fit. It's especially useful if you’re not storing bulky furniture, and want to avoid the hidden costs of van hire, padlocks, or paying for more space than you really need.

It’s also a smart choice if you value convenience. With collection and delivery included, and no need to visit a storage facility yourself, it’s one of the easiest ways to declutter your home without adding stress to your schedule.

 

Storage Without Renting An Entire Unit

 

You don’t need to rent an entire self-storage unit to keep your stuff safe. Whether you’re short on space, planning a move, or just want a simpler option, services like storage by the box offer a great alternative.

They let you store only what you need - and nothing more - while keeping everything secure and accessible.

Companies like The Box Co. make the process even easier, offering collection, storage, and delivery right to your door. It’s self-storage, but smarter.

For storage by the box, from just £3.56 per month - get in touch with The Box Co. today.