Container Storage vs Self Storage: What's the Difference?

Pick self storage if you want regular, easy access at a fixed site. Choose container storage if you want the unit brought to you, loaded once, then stored off site or kept on your property. The trade off is access frequency versus convenience of loading and transport.

Self storage gives you a fixed unit inside a staffed facility. You drive to the site to load and unload, with access during opening hours or 24 hour access where available. Units range from small lockers to garage sized rooms, with lighting, security, and trolleys for regular visits.

At HOLD's London facilities, you can rent climate-secure units with 24-hour access and easy, online booking.

Container storage sends a portable storage container to your address. You load it once, it is sealed, then either kept on your driveway if permitted or collected and stored in a secure depot.

You can book redelivery of the same container when you need it, and some providers allow prearranged depot access.

Self storage means renting purpose-built indoor storage units within secure facilities, usually in convenient city locations. Units come in a range of sizes, from lockers to rooms, and contracts are flexible so you only rent the space you need.

Pros

• Clean, well-lit buildings with layered security
• Flexible unit sizes and short-term contracts
• Covered loading bays, trolleys and lifts for easy access
• Climate-secure rooms that help in protecting furniture, valuables and important documents

Cons

• Higher price per square foot than containers
• Central locations can be busier, so parking or van loading may need planning

Container storage uses steel shipping containers. Storage containers are standardised and portable, commonly 10, 20 or 40 foot, placed in outdoor yards or delivered for drive up use.

Each container is weather resistant and secure, lockable, secure and good for bulky items or long term store. You can store boxes, store archives and store seasonal kit.

Pros

• Large single volume with simple pricing. A strong budget option for long stays.
• Ground level entry that works for pallets, kit, bikes and heavy equipment.
• Additionally helpful for business storage, temporary site materials or vehicle storage.

Cons

• Susceptible to condensation without ventilated linings
• Out-of-town sites can be less convenient to visit

If you plan weekly visits, indoor self storage wins for lifts, covered bays and long opening hours.

Container storage often works for a single move in then leave approach, though some operators place a container at your house, in garages or at your business for short periods.

Pick the model that will suit your routine and suit your timing and storage needs today.

Indoor rooms reduce temperature swings and humidity. That helps with wood, textiles, artwork and electronics.

Outdoor container storage is robust, but moisture can form inside unless the box is dry and well vented.

For heirlooms or delicate possessions, indoor secure storage is usually safer and provides control.

Self storage adds controlled entry, monitored corridors and staff presence on top of locked doors. This creates clear layers between street and unit.

Yard facilities rely on fencing plus the container lockbox and padlock. Choose the level that fits your items and gives peace of mind.

Self storage gives a wide range of unit sizes with short terms, so you can change as projects grow or as plans change.

Container storage fixes you to one large container, which is ideal when you know the volume and duration.

Self storage provides trolleys, lifts and covered bays that keep manual handling safer and more accessible.

Containers are ground level and work for palletised goods, kit and heavy gear, but delivery and siting on your site need safe crane entry and space to position and fill the box.

If lowest price per cubic metre matters and visits are rare, container storage can be cost effective.

If frequent trips, central location, temperature regulated rooms and on site service matter, indoor storage offers better value.

Self storage is typically in urban locations with staffed facilities and modern storage facilities, clear process and documented processes and a friendly team.

Secure container storage yards are often on the edge of town with fewer extras. Decide which service style works for your customers, colleagues or family customers. Customers value clear pricing and simple terms.

You need short trips for seasonal clothes and important documents, plus indoor conditions for antiques. A temperature-regulated self-storage unit near your location gives quick, accessible visits and tidy aisles for customers and trades. Result is practical control and peace of mind.

Landscaping tools and machinery can sit in a 20 foot container through winter. Drive up loading is simple, and overall price is attractive when you do not visit weekly. For business, this is a safe, secure way to store equipment between contracts in the UK.

• How often will you visit and do you want easy access or a one time load and leave?
• Do you have climate sensitive belongings that prefer secure storage indoors?
• Do you need a city location or is an out of town yard site acceptable?
• Will one container be simpler than several self storage units?
• Do you need a dry, well ventilated box or a temperature regulated room?
• Are delivery, siting and container sizes practical for your premises?

Our modern London facilities, 24-hour access on request, and tailored service separate us from our competitors. We offer temperature-regulated indoor rooms, covered loading bays, lifts, and trolleys to make visits simple.

Our secure storage units come in a wide range of sizes, and we maintain a clean, well-managed building, giving you clarity and control.

Whether you need extra space for residential items or premium business storage, we deliver extra space on flexible terms with clear pricing. You get tailored, professional advice from a friendly team that keeps your move efficient and your items protected.

And if you need high-quality boxes or packing materials, HOLD's online box shop has you covered.

Our 5-star customer feedback highlights our security, convenience and consistent service.

Get a free online quote today and get 50% off and a price match within 3 miles.

Prices vary by location and term. Container storage is often cheaper per cubic metre, while self storage gives more service and visits. Always compare total price including insurance, any sale of packing materials and any supply of locks or padlocks.

Yes, when the yard is managed and secure and the container has a lockbox, strong padlock and quality keys. Ask about lighting, CCTV and how entry is controlled for safe secure outcomes.

Booking is easy. Simply visit our website to get a quote, and you can book your unit in just a few clicks​​.

We have advanced security measures that protect for our customers' business assets. These include:

• 24-hour CCTV
• Burglar alarms
• Regular checks
• Personal pin codes
• Individually alarmed units
• Fire detection systems

These features not only provide peace of mind, but also protect your business assets from potential threats.

A 20 foot container suits many house moves and company stock. Check container sizes in feet and cubic metres, and review unit sizes if you prefer indoor rooms.

Many yards offer vehicle storage for cars, vans or bikes. Check opening hours rules, proof of ownership and whether the space is covered.

Start with a dry box, add a well vented lining or desiccants, and avoid sealing wet items inside. Open the doors on dry days to refresh air.

Only a few self storage facilities (like HOLD) offer 24 hour entry with PIN entry to storage units. Confirm what your chosen location provides and whether the service is included in the price.

It means indoor storage units and corridors of storage units inside a managed building with staffed reception, lifts and trolleys. It differs from outdoor containers in entry, environment and service.

Yes. Tool storage and materials storage are common use cases. Keep items dry, use pallets, and leave a walkway so you can reach what you store.