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How self-storage can be used by startups

August 10, 2023 |

London is the city for startups and if you are starting a new business and need storage this article will explain why you should consider self-storage over traditional means such as warehouses and larger premises.

If you’re a London start-up and you need business storage we have storage facilities in Islington and on Old Street. If you want to see how storage can benefit your business, keep on reading.

Why self storage?

Starting a new business is an exciting venture that often brings with it a unique set of challenges, one of the most significant being the management of space for inventory, equipment, or documentation. 

Leasing a commercial space for these purposes can be a hefty financial burden for a new business, but self storage units offer an effective and budget-friendly alternative. In this article, we’ll explore the multifaceted benefits that self storage units offer to new businesses, their scalability as your business grows, the alternatives available for business storage, and why self storage stands out as an affordable option.

Advantages of self storage

One of the primary advantages of using self storage for businesses is the efficient use of space. For instance, e-commerce businesses that need to store inventory, or service-oriented businesses that require space for equipment, will find self storage units incredibly useful. 

These units provide a clutter-free environment, allowing business owners to maintain a more organized and professional workspace, whether it be at home or in a small office.

In addition to space efficiency, self storage units provide enhanced security features. With surveillance cameras, secure gated access, and individual locks on each unit, business assets are well-protected, offering peace of mind to business owners. This level of security is often at par with, if not superior to, what one might find in traditional commercial spaces.

Accessibility is another crucial benefit. Many self storage facilities offer round-the-clock access, making it convenient for business owners to get to their inventory or equipment at any hour – a necessity for businesses operating outside regular working hours or those that need to respond quickly to client demands.

The flexibility offered by self storage units is particularly advantageous for growing businesses. These facilities usually have a range of unit sizes, and rental agreements are often flexible, allowing businesses to easily move to a larger or smaller unit depending on their current needs. This scalability is an invaluable feature, allowing businesses to efficiently manage their expansion and operational costs.

While self storage units are an excellent choice, it’s also worth considering the alternatives. Renting a warehouse or a commercial property is one option, though it typically involves higher costs and longer lease commitments, which might not be ideal for a startup. 

Drop-shipping is another alternative for businesses that wish to eliminate the need for physical inventory storage, although this model depends heavily on third-party suppliers. Digital solutions for document storage can significantly reduce the need for physical space, but they might not be feasible for businesses with tangible products or equipment.

The affordability of self storage units is perhaps one of their most attractive features for new businesses. In comparison to the expenses associated with leasing commercial spaces, self storage units offer a more economical solution. 

Businesses only pay for the space they need, with no long-term lease obligations, providing significant financial flexibility. Additionally, the overall costs, including those for security, maintenance, and utilities, are generally lower with self storage units than with commercial properties.

The different types of businesses that use self storage.

A wide range of businesses find self storage units to be an invaluable asset due to their flexibility, security, and cost-effectiveness. These facilities cater to diverse storage needs, making them a popular choice across various industries.

E-commerce businesses, for instance, often rely on self storage units for inventory management. This is particularly beneficial for small business owners who might not have the luxury of ample space at home or in smaller offices. Similarly, traditional brick-and-mortar retail stores utilize these spaces for storing excess or seasonal inventory, along with promotional materials.

In the construction and contracting industry, self storage units are an essential resource for housing tools, equipment, and building materials. These businesses appreciate the flexibility of accessing their stored items as needed, especially when working across multiple job sites. Service providers like landscapers, cleaning services, and event planners also find self storage units advantageous for keeping their equipment and supplies organized and accessible.

Businesses that deal with a significant amount of paperwork, such as law firms, medical practices, or financial services, utilize self storage for archiving important documents. This ensures that sensitive information is kept secure and out of the way.

Artists, crafters, and photographers, who might not have enough studio space, can use self storage units to store their supplies, finished works, and equipment. Real estate agents benefit from using these units to store staging furniture and decor, which are essential for furnishing and decorating homes for sale.

Non-profit organizations also make use of self storage units, especially when office space is limited. They find these units helpful for storing donations, event supplies, and important paperwork.

If you are a start-up business in London that needs help with its storage get in touch with us today.