How does self storage work? Beginner's guide to storage in 2026

According to the Self Storage Association (SSA), the UK is one of the largest markets for self storage in Europe. There are roughly 2,231 self storage stores in the UK, offering a staggering 55.5 million square feet of self storage space.

So, with so many storage companies vying for your hard-earned cash, being as well-informed as possible is essential. That way, you'll be able to pick the most cost-effective storage options.

Get a price match for London storage with HOLD Self Storage: free 24-hour access (upon request) and a wide range of secure units.

In a nutshell, self storage is a simple solution for storing personal and business items in a secure, off-site location. With a variety of unit sizes, from small lockers to large rooms, self storage facilities provide a flexible option for expanding your storage space without the need for larger premises.

Self storage space can support a wide range of individual and business needs. Today there are a huge variety of options to choose from, offering a secure and convenient way to manage belongings, inventory, and more.

Below are some of the ways self storage is commonly used:

Many people turn to self storage to declutter their living environments. it provides a convenient way to store seasonal decorations, sports equipment, and other items that aren't needed year-round. This helps maintain a clutter-free home while ensuring personal items are safely stored in a secure storage facility until needed again.

During life transitions, such as moving to a new home or renovating, self storage units provide a temporary home for furniture, appliances, and personal belongings. This ensures items during your house move. belongings are kept safe and out of the way, making the transition smoother.

For students—especially those studying far from home of more space for summer—self storage offers an affordable and flexible solution. A storage room can house textbooks, furniture, and personal items during school breaks, providing peace of mind to students and their families.

Business storage helps companies smartly manage extra inventory, office space, and important documents by using self storage. This solution is great for making more room in the office and keeping everything you might need later easy to get to when you need it.

Small businesses can us storage solutions as an affordable alternative to warehousing. This option is great for keeping stock, equipment, or marketing materials without the need for long-term contracts or the expense of commercial warehouse space.

Certain items are prohibited in self storage units to ensure safety and compliance with regulations. Here's a list of things you typically can't store:

Flammable, explosive, or hazardous materials

Perishable food items

Live plants

Live animals

Stolen or illegal goods

Scented or wet items that might attract pests

Firearms and ammunition (varies by facility)

Cash and securities

Perishable goods

Drugs or drug paraphernalia

Radioactive materials

Toxic waste

Unregistered or uninsured vehicles

Exploring the advantages of self storage reveals a suite of benefits tailored to meet the diverse needs of individuals and businesses alike. These facilities not only provide a secure place to temporarily store your belongings but also come with a variety of features designed to enhance the storage experience.

Here’s a deeper look into what makes self storage a top choice for managing space and safeguarding possessions:

The variety of unit sizes and flexible rental agreements from month-to-month to long-term mean self storage adapts to any situation. HOLD's units are accessible 24/7, fitting effortlessly into your schedule.

Advanced surveillance, secure access, and sometimes on-site personnel provide a robust security network. This ensures that personal and business items are safeguarded around the clock.

Facilities enhance the storage experience by offering pallet trucks, packing materials, and insurance arrangement assistance. These services aim to simplify the storage process, making it efficient and user-friendly.

Renting self storage units can be more economical than moving to a larger home or office. By selecting only the space you need, you control your costs, avoiding the expenses associated with larger properties or warehousing.

Many self storage service providers offer climate-controlled units, protecting sensitive items from extreme temperatures, humidity, and other environmental conditions. This is ideal for storing art, electronics, and other delicate personal possessions in, ensuring they remain in pristine condition.

When considering self storage as a solution to your space needs, following a clear process ensures you make the most of the services available. Whether you're looking to store personal belongings, business documents, or even extra stock or inventory, understanding your requirements and the steps involved is key. Here's how to navigate the process effectively:

Start by evaluating the amount of space you need and what items you plan to store. HOLD's unit size calculator can help you pinpoint how much space you need, Remember, it's not just about floor space—think about the height of the unit too.

Also, identify if you need special features like climate control. Remember, a well-chosen unit ensures your items are stored efficiently and remain in good condition for the duration they're kept.

With your storage needs in mind, search for a facility that aligns with your criteria, including proximity, security features, pricing, and customer feedback. A conveniently located facility with robust security measures, competitive pricing, and positive reviews can enhance your self storage experience significantly.

Investing time in packing and labelling your items methodically pays off, especially when you need quick and easy access to your belongings. Using sturdy boxes, protective wrapping, and clear labels can prevent damage and make managing your storage space easier.

Efficient packing not only conserves space but also helps in maintaining the condition of your stored items.

We have multiple guides on packing so feel free to explore.

Decide on the logistics of moving your belongings to the storage unit. If you choose to do it yourself, consider the benefits of facilities with drive-up access that simplifies the process.

Alternatively, hiring professional movers can provide convenience, especially for heavy or bulky items. The right approach can save time and ensure the safe transportation of your possessions.

For more help, HOLD's removal service is at your disposal.

Understanding self storage contracts is straightforward when you know what to look for. These agreements detail the terms of your rental, including the length of use, payment schedules, and any policies about late payments or how to end your rental agreement.

It's important to carefully read your contract to grasp your responsibilities and the protections it offers you as a renter. This clarity ensures you can use the storage unit within the agreed parameters and avoid any surprises.

The average self storage facility will usually offers different insurance plans. However, it's up to you to assess whether these options adequately cover your personal possessions. Additionally, check your existing homeowner's or renter's insurance policy, as it might already provide coverage for items stored off-premises.

HOLD allows for negligence up to a maximum of £100 and you'll need to arrange insurance cover the rest.

That wraps up our beginner's guide to self storage! Here's a run-down of a few key tips:

Avoid storing perishable or hazardous items, as these are typically prohibited.

Research storage facilities for price and location.

Maximise your storage space by stacking items strategically and using shelving units if permitted.

Consider insurance options for added peace of mind, especially for valuable personal or business items.

HOLD makes self storage simple at King’s Cross. Choose from a wide range of unit sizes, with off-street parking and loading, alarmed rooms, and 24-hour CCTV for peace of mind. You can also get 24-hour access with your own PIN (on request), so you’re not tied to set hours.

And you won’t overpay: we’ll price match any better-value quote within three miles and add a free week, plus 50% off for up to 8 weeks for new customers.

Get a free quote online in 30 seconds and lock in your unit today