storage facilities

What Are The Main Types of Storage Facilities?

The main types of storage facilities are self-storage units, container storage, warehouse storage and storage by the box.

Whether you’re moving house, decluttering or storing business equipment, choosing the right type of storage facility can save you time, money and effort. 

Storage facilities come in many shapes and sizes, but it can be hard to know exactly what you're looking for.

Well fear not. We talk you through everything you need to know. From the pros and cons of self-storage units to specialised storage you might not even know exists - we break it all down.

Self-Storage Facilities

Self-storage is the most common storage solution in the UK.

These storage facilities are usually large buildings divided up into multiple storage units of various sizes. As part of your self-storage rental, you'll rent a private space (or unit) in these buildings that you will lock, pack and maintain on your own.

These facilities tend to fit into 2 categories: 

New-build storage Centres: Modern, purpose-built facilities with state-of-the-art security and climate control.

Converted buildings: Older buildings retrofitted to house storage units, often offering similar features to new builds but at a slightly lower cost.

Self-storage is commonly used by everyone,, from households to students and businesses.

Advantages of self-storage:

  • Accessibility: Many facilities offer 24/7 access.
  • Security: Features like CCTV, access control, and on-site staff mean your items are stored safely.
  • Variety of sizes: Units range from small lockers to large spaces that can fit furniture or business inventory. 
  • Climate control: Good for sensitive items like antiques, electronics, and documents.

Disadvantages of self-storage:

  • Cost: Self-storage facilities are generally more expensive than other options.
  • Limited drive-up access: Loading and unloading can be time-consuming, particularly if units are on higher floors.

Best for: Furniture, seasonal items, electronics, documents, and business inventory.

Storage By The Box

Now becoming increasingly popular due to the expense of storage units, storage by the box services collect your items, store them securely and then return them when you're ready.

This is a great option for people who don't have easy access to transport, or who may not have enough items to commit to a whole unit, especially as they can be expensive.

Advantages of storage by the box:

  • Convenience: No need to transport or unpack items yourself.
  • Cost: These tend to be much cheaper than renting storage units (£4 per month vs £40).
  • Flexibility: You can easily increase or decrease your storage costs based on how much you have to put away, which is harder to do when renting an entire unit.

Disadvantages of storage by the box:

  • Access restrictions: Retrieving items may mean you need to give the company a day or two's notice.

Best for: Boxed items, cost-efficiency, convenience and decluttering projects.

For storage by the box services, starting at just £3.56 per month, get in touch with The Box Co. at hello@theboxco.co.uk 

Container Storage

Container storage is another type of storage commonly used, however the units themselves are slightly different.

Container storage means using repurposed shipping containers to provide secure and affordable storage solutions. These units are typically located outdoors, within secure storage areas.

These tend to be more basic, but much more cost effective.

Advantages of container storage:

  • Cost-effective: Container storage is often cheaper per square foot than traditional self-storage.
  • Durability: Designed to withstand extreme weather, containers are great materials for long-term outdoor use.
  • Drive-up access: Easy to load and unload items directly from your vehicle.

Disadvantages of container storage:

  • No climate control: Temperature fluctuations and condensation can affect sensitive items. This is especially concerning in wet climates like the UK.
  • Weather risks:  Exposure to elements can cause dampness and other issues if items are not properly prepared.

Best for: Tools, machinery, outdoor furniture, and non-sensitive household items.

See our guide around: How to pack for long-term storage.

Lock-Up Garages

Lock-up garages are a budget-friendly storage option, especially for people who live in urban or suburban areas.

Lock-up garages are garage-sized units that are rented out specifically for storage purposed.

Advantages of lock-up garages:

  • Affordability: Cheaper than self-storage units.
  • Ease of access: Often in residential areas with straightforward drive-up access.

Disadvantages of lock-up garages:

  • Limited security: Usually secured only by a basic garage door lock.
  • No climate control: Unsuitable for items sensitive to humidity or temperature fluctuations as neither the garage nor the interior are designed to protect its contents long-term.

Best for: Bicycles, garden tools, and general household storage.

Furniture/Removals Depositories

Usually called furniture depositories, these are big warehouses that are managed by removal companies.

They are usually used for temporary storage during house moves or long-term storage for those moving abroad.

Advantages of removals depositories:

  • Convenience: Includes transport and professional packing services.
  • Security: High standards of security and controlled storage conditions.

Disadvantages of removals depositories:

  • Access restrictions: Items are not easily accessible, and visits may incur additional fees.
  • Remote locations: Often situated outside city centres, making access inconvenient.

Best for: Furniture, household goods, and long-term storage during moves.

Climate-Controlled Storage Units

For items that are sensitive to temperature and humidity, climate-controlled units are a great option. These units regulate both temperature and moisture levels so any delicate items are less likely to be damaged.

Advantages of climate-controlled storage units:

  • Preservation: Ideal for antiques, electronics, fine art and important documents.
  • Protection: Guards against mould, warping, and other environmental damage.

Disadvantages of climate-controlled storage units:

  • Higher cost: Advanced technology makes these units more expensive than standard storage.
  • Limited availability: Not all facilities offer climate-controlled options.

Best for: Antiques, electronics, artwork, and delicate fabrics.

See our guide: Is climate-controlled storage worth the extra cost?

Portable Storage (Mobile Storage)

Portable storage containers are delivered to you, allowing you to load and unload items wherever you choose. 

The container is then transported to a secure facility or kept on-site. This can be a great option for people with too many items to fit in a removals van.

Advantages of mobile storage units:

  • Flexibility: Convenient for those moving house, redecorating, or renovating.
  • Ease of Access: Items can be stored on-site for short-term needs.

Disadvantages of mobile storage units:

  • Space: Requires a driveway or other large, accessible area.
  • Scheduling: Delivery and pickup depend on the provider’s availability.

Best for: Temporary storage during renovations or moves.

Vehicle Storage

Vehicle storage is designed for cars, motorcycles, boats, and campervans.

Options range from covered outdoor areas to fully enclosed units, which can be customised based on how many vehicles you have (and how big they are!)

Advantages of vehicle storage:

  • Security: Facilities often include 24/7 CCTV and controlled access.
  • Specialised: Options for seasonal or long-term vehicle storage, designed with them in mind.

Disadvantages of vehicle storage:

  • Costs: Prices depend on location, security features, and indoor or outdoor options.
  • Protection needed: Outdoor storage may need you to also invest in protective covers for your vehicles.

Best for: Cars, motorbikes, campervans, and boats.

Specialty Storage (Wine, Deep, and Business Storage)

Wine Storage:

Features: Controlled temperature, humidity, and light to preserve wine quality.

Best for: Fine wine collections.

Deep Storage:

Features: Long-term storage in wooden crates, ideal for items rarely accessed.

Best for: Rarely accessed personal or business items.

Business Storage:

Features: Space for inventory, documents, or equipment; cost-effective alternative to renting bigger office space.

Best for: Business inventory, documents, and office equipment.

Summary Table: Best For Each Storage Type

 

Storage Type Best For
Self-Storage Facilities Furniture, seasonal items, electronics, documents, and business inventory
Container Storage Tools, machinery, outdoor furniture, and non-sensitive household items
Lock-Up Garages Bicycles, garden tools, and general household storage
Removals Depositories Furniture, household goods, and long-term storage during moves
Climate-Controlled Units Antiques, electronics, artwork, and delicate fabrics
Portable Storage Temporary storage during renovations or moves
Storage By The Box Boxed items, affordability and decluttering projects
Vehicle Storage Cars, motorcycles, campervans, and boats
Specialty Storage (Wine) Fine wine collections
Specialty Storage (Deep) Rarely accessed personal or business items
Specialty Storage (Business) Business inventory, documents, and office equipment


Things To Consider When Choosing A Storage Facility

There are a few things to take into account when choosing a facility, including:

  • Security: Look for CCTV, controlled access, and on-site staff. 
  • Climate control: Important for sensitive items like antiques, electronics, and documents.
  • Accessibility: Think about your schedule and whether 24/7 access or drive-up convenience is important.
  • Cost: Be aware of hidden fees and cancellation clauses in the contract.
  • Insurance: Be sure to ask upfront if the cost includes insurance or not.
  • Location: If you are going for a unit option, distance to your home or business can save time and transportation costs.
  • Customer reviews: Research ratings and testimonials to work out the best company for you.

The Main Types Of Storage Facilities

Choosing the right type of storage depends on your needs, whether that’s affordability, security, or special features.

By carefully considering elements like accessibility, cost, and security, you can find a storage solution that is perfect for you.

For storage by the box services, starting at just £3.56 per month, get in touch with The Box Co. at hello@theboxco.co.uk 

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