London self storage is booming
With London's population approaching a staggering 10 million, space is at a premium. Factor in myriad urban constraints, and it's unsurprising there's been an uptick in the demand for quality storage solutions.
In the 1970s, Doug Hampson opened up the first self storage facility in the UK. Since these humble origins, the industry has become hugely profitable; one whose turnover is predicted to pass £1 billion by the end of the year.
At a glance, the service offered by storage companies appears relatively simple – once you've picked a dedicated, indoor site, all that varies is occupancy duration and the size of the unit. However, many of today's customers are more sophisticated, and traditional self storage may no longer be enough. Justifiably, they expect more from a service that can prove costly.
Amidst this backdrop of rising demand, storage prices and consumer awareness, several storage companies have risen to the top. Let's take a look at the current kings of London storage.
Our top 5 storage companies in London are (and yes we might be a little biased!):
- HOLD Storage
- Safestore
- Big Yellow
- Shurgard
- Access Self Storage
How much is storage a month in London?
Understandably, storage in London tends to be costlier than elsewhere in England. According to the SSA's Self Storage Industry Report 2024, the average self storage unit in London costs £26.23 per square foot per year. Some of the factors that influence price are:
- Location (proximity to the city centre raises the price).
- Storage unit size (charged by square footage).
- Length of stay (short-term discounts vs. long-term rates).
- Replacement value all influence the price of storage.
For an accurate price, seeking a no-obligation quote is recommended. In fact (as you'll see), all the companies on this list only provide prices on quotation. While you're at it, always inquire about potential discounts – every penny counts!
For more insight, check out our comprehensive guide to UK self storage prices.
What do I look for when choosing a self storage unit in London?
Picking the right storage company may seem as simple as going for the most convenient or cost-effective. However, it's worth bearing a few more factors in mind. After all, a storage service covers much more than you might assume.
Accessibility – Can you access your storage units around the clock and on weekends? It's essential to be able to reach your items whenever you might need them.
Security – Features like sturdy locks, camera surveillance, on-site personnel, and secured entryways are crucial to guarantee the safety of your valuables.
Pricing – Keep an eye out for promotional offers or online discounts, and be aware of any changes in pricing terms within your agreement.
Storage unit size - Remember, not all providers have every option. Performing a thorough inventory of your items will help you see what storage space you need.
Feel free to use our storage unit calculator for more help.
Availability – If you have a specific size or style in mind for a unit, make sure the facility can accommodate your needs.
Location – Storage facilities in central London might offer you more space and convenience but often come at a premium. Depending on how often you'll need access, consider whether a location slightly outside the city centre might offer better value while still being accessible.
Reviews – The opinions of past and current users can offer invaluable insights. Be wary of facilities with consistent negative feedback or specific recurring issues raised by customers.
Now let's take a look at our picks for the Top 5 Best Storage Companies in London!
1. HOLD Self Storage
Founded: 2023
Trustpilot score: 5
Price: On quotation
While it's one of the smaller companies on this list, HOLD Self Storage hasa reputation for reliability and quality in London. With over 15 years of experience from the management team, they've refined their offerings to go beyond simply providing a secure storage space.
A truly next-gen company, HOLD offers an impressive variety of business and household storage solutions. Whatever size you need, their storage units range from wardrobes to shipping containers.
Unlike many providers, HOLD Self Storage offers round-the-clock access to your belongings. This feature that speaks volumes about their focus on customer convenience.
Their use of automation streamlines the storage process, minimising the usual logistical headaches. With four strategically located facilities across London, they make it easy for you to access your items when you need them.
Their strong customer service ethos ensures that you're not just storing your belongings; you're also investing in a great service, that values your satisfaction. Whatever your needs - moving house, renovating, or looking for reliable stock storage - HOLD promises to ensure a seamless storage experience. They also have some of the most affordable storage units in London.
Key services in London
- 50% off for 12 weeks with a 3 mile price match guarantee
- Archiving and document storage
- Packing supplies
- Round-the-clock storage
- Collection student storage and delivery of storage items
- Free WiFi
- Premium Yale locks
- Mailbox services
- Business space pods
- Extended-duration storage compartments
- Expansive storage spaces
- Direct access to storage spaces
- Equipment handling with forklifts
Pros
- 50% off for 12 weeks with a 3 mile price match guarantee
- All clients get access to forklifts for bulky items
- An impressive tally of over 100 five-star ratings
- 24/7 free storage access for all patrons
- Storage facilities adhere to essential security norms
- Storage spaces crafted from durable steel, complemented with alarm systems
Cons
- Only operates sites in the London area
2. Safestore
Founded: 1998
Trustpilot score: 4.5 (8,613 reviews)
Price: On quotation
Our second pick for the best self storage units in London is Safestore. The current king of London self storage, Safestore has a huge network of facilities, including 132 locations across the UK and a notable 50 in London alone.
If you're looking for options, Safestore has you covered – they even claim to offer more variety than any other self storage provider in the UK.
When it comes to pricing, Safestore offers a Lowest Price Guarantee – if you find a cheaper quote from a local competitor, they'll not only match it but beat it by 10%.
Making storage easy is the key focus for Safestore. Whether you're storing household items, business inventory, or student belongings, they aim to make the process as smooth as possible.
They offer flexible rental periods and even provide discounts for long-term commitments. Security isn't taken lightly either – each storage unit is monitored by 24-hour CCTV, and you'll be the sole key holder for your storage space.
Key Services in London
- House, warehouse, business student, and other storage options.
- Secure document and archive storage.
- Spacious warehouse storage facilities.
- 24-hour CCTV and robust security measures.
- Sole key holder for individual storage units.
- Advanced intruder alarm systems.
- Secure lock-up garages available.
- Convenient luggage storage services.
- Rentable office spaces on-site.
- Specialised storage for Amazon sellers.
- Decluttering storage solutions.
- Comprehensive moving house checklist.
- Boxes and packaging available for delivery.
- On-site DHL ServicePoint for shipping.
Pros
- Wide range of storage units
- Multiple locations in London
- Lowest Price Guarantee
- Excellent customer service
- High-security measures
- Excellent customer service
Cons
- Some users have reported poor storage unit quality
- Several reviews indicate issues with pricing – too expensive, random charges, and a large increase in recent years
3. Big Yellow Self Storage
Founded: 1998
Trustpilot: 4.7 (4,031 reviews)
Price: On quotation
Ask the average Londoner which brand comes to mind when they hear the word “storage” and it's likely they'll reply “Big Yellow”. With its bold branding and clever marketing, it's no suprirse Big Yellow is a one of the leading London storage companies.
Big Yellow has been a staple in the UK's self storage scene for over 2 decades, and it's easy to see why it's a top pick for Londoners. With a variety of locations across London, from Balham to Kingston, accessibility is a cinch. The company offers 50% off for the first 8 weeks, making it an affordable option whether you're decluttering, moving, or just need extra space.
What sets Big Yellow apart is its experience in providing modern, hassle-free storage solutions. They offer a range of self storage unit size sizes to fit your exact needs, so you're not stuck paying for space you don't use.
Plus, their facilities are as secure as they are convenient, with modern amenities to keep your belongings safe. It's no wonder they call themselves the UK's favourite self storage company.
Key Services in London
- Multiple locations across London
- Variety of storage unit sizes
- Modern, secure facilities
- Variety of storage sizes and types to suit different needs
- Business-focused multi-site storage options
- Flexible workspaces available for office use
- On-demand availability of packing supplies and moving boxes
- Specialised wine and collectables storage
- Enhanced security features including PIN access, 24-hour CCTV, and perimeter fencing
- Pallet trucks and trolleys for easy loading and unloading
- On-site fax, printing, and photocopying services upon request
Pros
- Convenient locations across London for easy access
- Highly regarded in customer reviews
- On-site availability of packing supplies, including boxes and padlocks
- Additional services like storage removal and van hire
- Discounts available through partner removal companies
- Price matching for storage rooms under 200 sq ft
- Vending machines for snacks and cold drinks in loading areas
Cons
- Limited access hours, not open 24/7
- Payment restrictions – cash and cheques aren't accepted
- Limited temperature-controlled storage options, except for wine storage at Fulham
- Forklifting services only available at specific locations
4. Shurgard
Founded: 1995
Trustpilot score: 4.7 (12,793 reviews)
Price: On quotation
A titan of European self storage, Shurgard has established a strong presence in the swinging city. With locations peppered across London and the Thames Valley, you're never too far from a Shurgard facility.
Judging by their growing popularity, it's clear they understand the city's diverse storage needs.
And it's not just about location and availability for Shurgard, who also scores high on flexibility and ease of use. They offer a range of various easy for first-time customers to sidestep that initial financial hurdle.
If you ever need to switch self storage units, Shurgard won't charge you extra. Even the reservation process is a cinch, with free cancellations if your plans change. All in all, Shurgard offers a convenient and straightforward self storage solution that respects both your space and your wallet.
Key Services in London
- Personal, business, and student-friendly self storage options
- Staff trained in customer service
- No upfront deposit required for quick self storage setup
- Storage for both equipment and furniture
- On-demand availability of moving boxes and packing supplies
- Security measures including CCTV and fenced perimeters
- Additional security through sensor lighting
- Access control via PIN-coded electronic gates
- Short-term and long-term self storage solutions
- Convenient lifts and trolleys for easy loading and unloading
- Specialised tyre storage options
- Availability of lockers for smaller items
Pros
- Many reviews praise the customer service.
- Extensive presence in both London and the Thames Valley area.
- Access to self storage facilities is available every day of the year.
- No initial deposit required for all customers.
- No extra charges for switching storage units
- Free reservation setup and cancellation for customers
Cons
- Some users have reported delays with refunds
- Certain locations in London lack dedicated space for loading bays
5. Access Self Storage
Founded: 1976
Trustpilot score: 4.3
Price: On quotation
Access Self Storage has been biding its time in the UK's self storage and office space rental market for over two decades. Now, it's fast becoming a rising star. With a network of 60 stores, they've built a reputation for being accessible and reliable.
While their primary focus is on traditional self storage and solutions, they offer services catering to both individual and other business storage needs. This includes office space rentals and document management.
Access Self Storage prioritises a customer-centric approach, offering flexible storage unit sizes and business services, including multi-site storage options across the UK. Vehicle parking and packaging materials are also available, adding extra convenience.
Their pricing is straightforward, with no hidden fees or required deposits, and they offer monthly billing to help you manage your budget. In their own words, Access Self Storage values transparency, effort, and simplicity, aiming to make the storage process as uncomplicated as possible for their customers.
Key Services in London
- 24-hour CCTV surveillance.
- Dedicated account manager for specific storage options.
- Vehicle, office, warehouse, and other storage options available.
- Wide range of boxes and packaging available for purchase.
- Many unfurnished office spaces available, from 125 to 10,000 sq. ft
- Consolidated monthly invoices, and flexible payment terms for multi-site storage.
- Decluttering options
- Specialised storage for E-commerce.
- Partnered with local removal and van companies.
Pros
- Multiple stores in the London area
- Wide range of storage options available
- Users have reported storage units are of high quality
Cons
- Multiple complaints about rising costs
- Several users noted security and safety breaches
- Mixed reviews on customer service
Research carefully before choosing a storage company
The many positive reviews for these brands speak for themselves – but don't take our word for it.
Never underestimate a few hours of careful research. After all, it could be the difference between an unwelcome scenario, and safe, safe and secure storage.
As we've mentioned, the best choice for secure storage units isn't always about location or price. You should find a facility that aligns with your needs, whether that's your self storage unit size, a tailored service, or specific security features. So take your time, weigh your options, and don't hesitate to reach out to these facilities to get a feel for their customer service.
Happy storing!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is storage cheaper outside of London?
Yes, storage costs are generally cheaper outside of London due to lower real estate prices.
What is the best storage facility in the UK?
The "best" facility can depend on specific needs, but large, well-reviewed companies like Big Yellow and Safestore are highly regarded.
What is the largest storage company in the UK?
According to the UK Self Storage Annual Report 2024, the top two storage providers in the UK are Big Yellow ( with 109 stores and a total space of 6.5 million square feet), and Safestore (133 stores and a total space of 5.7 million square feet.
How much is a storage unit for a month in London?
As mentioned, a typical unit size at average costs would be around £109 per month for a 50 square foot unit.
What is the smallest storage to rent?
The smallest units available in most storage facilities start from about 10 square feet, suitable for small boxes or individual items.
Is storing my belongings with HOLD secure?
HOLD has 24/7 CCTV, access control, smoke detectors, and fireproofing.. Only you will have access to your unit and the building in access by pin only and monitored 24/7 by CCTV. Upon registration, you'll receive a unique PIN code granting you access to the site.
Additionally, you'll secure your unit with your own padlock. If you need others to access your unit, they can do so with your permission and using your code.
What is included in HOLD's price for my storage unit?
Private access to your own unit as well as 24/7 access. HOLD offers workspace pods for hire, providing a comfortable area with power, WiFi, printer access, and complimentary hot drinks. Please inquire with our teams for details.