So you’ve got a brilliant business idea, but you need more time before you can be ready for a fully set up office or retail space? Running your business out of a self storage unit can be a smart and economical solution, at least when you’re just starting.
Let’s take a look at the benefits of using a self storage unit for your business and how to make it work best for you.
The Benefits of Using a Storage Unit for Business
Why would you want to manage your business from a storage unit? Here are a few key benefits:
- Low Overhead Costs: Leasing an office or storefront is expensive, especially when you’re just getting off the ground. A storage unit is a fraction of those costs.
- Flexibility: You don’t get locked into a long-term commercial lease that can become a stranglehold on your company. As your business grows, you can easily move to a larger storage space or an office when the time is right.
- Accessible Locations: Many storage facilities are located in highly visible, accessible areas, which can cut down on driving times for your small business.
- 24/7 Access: Some facilities allow you to access your unit whenever you need, so you can work around irregular hours.
- Security: With gated access, CCTV security cameras, on-site staff, and a lock only you can open, your business assets have never been more safe and sound.
The Types of Businesses That Use Self Storage
While you can’t live in a storage unit (disappointing, we know, but there are some very good reasons why), a wide range of business activities are happily allowed:
- Online Retail: If you sell products online, you can use the space to store your inventory and supplies for shipping.
- Service Businesses: Contractors, landscapers, cleaning services, and more use storage units as equipment storage depots.
- Artists/Makers: Crafters, artists, and wood/metalworkers can use storage units as affordable spaces to create their work (within the rules each facility has regarding noise levels).
- Manufacturing: 3D printers, jewellery assembly, T-shirt printing, and other types of small-scale product production businesses can operate in a unit, but often, you’ll have to provide your own power source for any machinery.
IMPORTANT: From your end, please make sure your business’s day-to-day running does not disturb neighbours, create health/safety hazards, or violate your rental agreement.
Setting Up Your Storage Space for Business
With clever planning, your humble storage unit can transform into a well-organised business hub. With just a few affordable additions, yours can go from a stark space to a well-appointed home base:
- Use shelving, racks, and overhead storage to best utilise every bit of available space.
- A folding table or desk provides a workspace for tasks like prepping orders.
- A fan, space heater, cold water cooler, and camp chairs can make your unit feel more hospitable (remember that electrical outlets are not provided).
- Strategically position supplies and equipment that you need for your day-to-day operations.
- Bright, ample lighting is essential. We recommend buying some portable LED lamps to place around your unit.
Important Things to Keep in Mind
Choose the Right Location
Location, location, location — it’s not just for real estate anymore! When choosing between potential self storage facilities for your business, you’ll want a convenient location for you and any clients that might need to visit your unit occasionally. It doesn’t hurt if they have ample parking available too!
Stay Organised
With limited space comes the need for proper organisation. Find storage solutions like shelving units, file cabinets, and labelled bins to keep your inventory and supplies in order. Some facilities have on-site packaging materials you can buy.
A clutter-free workspace isn’t just aesthetically pleasing; it also boosts your productivity and efficiency!
Get Insured
Just like any other business, it’s crucial to protect your investments. While self storage facilities typically have security measures in place, it’s wise to invest in insurance for added peace of mind. Look for policies that cover theft, damage, and liability to make sure you’re fully protected against any unforeseen circumstances.
Mind the Rules
Before you set up shop in your self storage unit, familiarise yourself with the facility’s rules and regulations. Each self storage company has its own set of guidelines regarding noise levels, business activities, and signage. By following the rules, you’ll keep a positive relationship with the facility management and avoid any potential conflicts.
Find the Best Self Storage Unit for Your Business
If you’re ready to take that entrepreneurial leap towards levelling up and running your business from a storage unit, look no further than Pink Hippo Self Storage. We offer affordable units in secure, convenient locations in Reading and Leatherhead that are perfectly set up for your business operations.
Our well-maintained facilities provide 24/7 access, access-controlled entry, ample lighting, and CCTV surveillance so your inventory and equipment always stay safe and functional. Our flexible leases allow you to upsize or downsize as your space needs evolve.
Our knowledgeable staff is happy to guide you through the process and requirements of operating your business out of one of our units. We’ll make sure you have everything you need to hit the ground running!
Reserve your unit online today or stop by to take a tour first:
Leatherhead
- 01372 386 916
- info@pinkhipposelfstorage.co.uk
- Unit 1D, Business Park 8, Barnet Wood Lane, Leatherhead, KT22 7DG
Reading
- 0118 957 1573
- reading@pinkhipposelfstorage.co.uk
- 7 Bridgewater Close, Reading, RG30 1JT