What Time Of Year Are Storage Units Cheapest?
Storage units are usually cheapest in the winter, due to lower demand. This means facilities are more likely to offer better deals and have availability.
The truth is that renting during the colder months can save you serious money, especially if you plan ahead.
At The Box Co., however, prices stay low all year round. That’s because we offer storage by the box, so we have flat prices year-round, starting from just £3.56 per month.
Whether you’re moving house, decluttering for the new year, or need short-term storage during renovations, timing your rental can make a big difference to your budget.
In this guide, we’ll break down exactly when storage units are cheapest, how pricing fluctuates across the seasons, and how to make sure you're getting the best deal.
Why Winter Is the Cheapest Time To Rent A Storage Unit
Winter is usually the slowest season for the self-storage industry. Fewer people are moving, university terms are in full swing, and demand for temporary storage drops, so prices often follow.
That’s great news if you’re hoping to find a cheaper storage unit. Here’s why winter works in your favour:
Lower Demand = Lower Prices
Storage companies tend to reduce their rates during winter to fill empty units. You’re more likely to find promotional offers, discounted long-term deals, or even free collection services if you shop around.
More Availability
With fewer renters competing for space, you’ll have your pick of units. You may also have more flexibility on contract length.
Perfect for Long-Term Storage
If you’re storing furniture, business inventory, or seasonal gear, renting a unit in winter and locking in a lower rate can save you money over time.
But here’s the difference:
At The Box Co., prices stay low all year round.
Because we charge by the box, you only pay for what you actually store. That means no paying for half-empty units or scrambling to book a space during peak season.
Whether it's January or July, we collect from your door and store your boxes affordably, starting from just £3.56 per month, with insurance included.
Explore storage by the box to see how much you could save compared to traditional storage units.
What Happens To Storage Prices in Other Seasons?
While winter is cheapest, storage prices shift throughout the year depending on how many people are renting. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:
Spring
Spring is the start of the busy season. People start spring cleaning, house sales pick up, and many plan home upgrades.
Prices rise as demand increases, especially for companies that have a limited number of units.
Summer
The most expensive time for storage. Students move out and look for student storage, families relocate during school holidays, and many households downsize or renovate.
Expect high prices, limited availability, and more competition.
Autumn
A shoulder season that can offer better value. Some facilities run pre-winter promotions, and availability opens up after the summer rush.
Great time for vehicle or outdoor gear storage as people prepare for colder months.
Winter
Quiet, cold and ideal for bargains.
If you want the lowest storage prices of the year, rent in winter.
Other Factors That Affect Storage Prices
While the time of year plays a big role, other elements can influence how much you pay:
Size of the Unit
Bigger units cost more. A 25 sq. ft. unit in the UK might cost £58 - £75 per month, while a 100 sq. ft. space could reach £150+ depending on location.
Location
Urban areas - especially central London - carry higher storage costs than rural or northern areas. If you don’t need regular access, storing further from home can be cheaper.
Features
Climate control, 24/7 access, and high-security facilities all increase cost. Decide what’s important and avoid paying for extras you don’t need.
Duration
Short-term rentals can work out cheaper per month, but many companies offer better rates if you commit to a long-term storage period or pay upfront.
Tip: With The Box Co., you only pay for the number of boxes you store, all year round. No need to overpay for empty space or book seasonally for the best deals.
Pros and Cons of Renting in Winter
Still on the fence about winter storage? Here’s a quick look at the pros and cons.
Pros:
Cheaper prices
More unit availability
Easier to get promotions and discounts
Better choice of features
Cons:
Weather conditions can make access difficult
Climate-controlled units may be necessary to protect your items
Fewer daylight hours for loading/unloading
If you’re using a door-to-door storage service like The Box Co., you can avoid the downsides completely. We pick up, store, and deliver your items whenever you need them, so you never have to brave the cold.
How to Get the Best Deal on a Storage Unit
1. Book in Winter (If You Can)
You’ll get the best availability and prices by reserving during the off-season, even if you don’t need the unit immediately.
2. Only Pay for What You Use
Traditional units charge a flat fee regardless of how much space you actually use. Look for flexible storage-by-the-box models like The Box Co., which can save you up to 60% compared to traditional storage.
3. Bring Your Own Lock and Packaging
Avoid inflated costs at the facility. Buy your own boxes, padlocks, and wrapping supplies.
4. Compare Local Providers
Not all storage is created equal. Use comparison tools and check whether providers include extras like insurance, collection, or delivery.
The Best Time to Rent a Storage Unit
So, what time of year are storage units cheapest? Winter, hands down.
Lower demand means better prices, more flexibility, and greater availability of the features you need.
Whether you're planning a move, clearing space, or storing valuables long-term, get started with The Box Co. today. Book your storage now and let us take care of the heavy lifting.
FAQs: Cheapest Time to Rent Storage Units
When are storage units cheapest in the UK?
Generally, winter (December–February) offers the lowest prices due to lower demand.
Is it worth renting in summer?
Only if you need storage urgently. Expect to pay more and book early for the best choice. If you want to avoid inflated prices, think about a storage by the box company that offers flat prices year-round.
Can I rent a storage unit short-term?
Yes, most UK storage companies offer rolling monthly contracts. The Box Co. offers storage by the box with no fixed contract, making it perfect for short-term and flexible storage needs.
What size storage unit do I need?
This depends on what you’re storing. You can usually guess based on how many boxes or items you have. But if you’re unsure, try our storage calculator.
