So, you’re thinking about starting up a small business but struggling to find an affordable space. Have you ever considered a self storage unit? There can be many benefits to doing this. Here At Magenta, we offer straightforward and convenient storage solutions.

Ultimately it will depend on your business needs, but let us help you to decide whether it is the right choice for you.

Can You Start Up a Small Business from a Self Storage Unit?

Using self storage for starting up a small business has become an increasingly popular choice for many reasons. From saving money to maximising space, starting up a small business in a self storage unit may be your next move. But can you do this?

The long and short of this is, yes, you can, depending on your business needs. There are legal implications you will need to consider before making this decision.  

Advantages of Starting Up a Small Business in a Self Storage Unit

Here are some advantages:

• Cost-effective and affordable: it can be a highly cost-effective and affordable option, especially for small businesses just starting up and not quite ready for that big, fancy office or warehouse just yet.
• Flexible: Magenta Storage units are also fully flexible if your business needs change and you need more or less space. 
• Security: All Magenta Storage facilities are secured by 24-hour CCTV surveillance and multi-zone alarm and fire systems. 
• E-charging points for electric vehicles: Put your sustainable foot forward when launching your small business with Magenta Storage. In line with our commitment to sustainability, each store has an E-charging point for electric vehicles, free of use for staff and customers. 

Challenges of Running a Start-Up from a Self Storage Unit

Of course, there are pros and cons to most things in life. Running a start-up from a self storage unit can come with its setbacks. Here are some reasons it might not be the right choice for you:

• Legal restrictions: you can not legally register a storage unit as a business address, so if this is something you are looking for, it would be best to use an office building
• Commercial reasons: You will still need a business permit, and your business must adhere to local zoning laws. These laws determine where and how a business can operate.
• Navigating potential logistical challenges: if you require customers to visit your business premises, a self storage unit may not be the most practical meeting point in terms of space or access.

Small Businesses That Could Benefit from Working from a Self Storage Unit

A self storage unit could be well suited to many different types of businesses. Here are some start-ups it may suit:

• Small e-commerce businesses, including Etsy retailers and TikTok shop sellers who wish to leverage a self storage unit to efficiently store their inventory. One in five renters are now business customers, often e-commerce retailers.
• Arts and crafts businesses find self storage units invaluable for storing their creative work and essential tools, allowing them to reclaim their home’s spare room without compromising on organisation.
• Photographers seek self storage as an ideal studio space, offering a more professional setting for their work compared to the confines of a home environment. Additionally, it provides an increased level of privacy, enhancing the overall client experience.
• Freelancers in the marketing and web design industry opt for the affordability and flexibility of self storage units as an alternative to investing substantial amounts in traditional office spaces.
• Fitness services, such as personal trainers and instructors, benefit from self storage units that offer ample space for client sessions at an affordable price, ensuring a professional and dedicated setting.
• Cleaning and handyman services utilise self storage units to store equipment, elevating their business’s professionalism by maintaining a separate, organised space outside their homes.

These are just some ideas of small businesses which might decide to run their business from a self storage unit.

Strategies for Success in Starting Up a Small Business in 2024

Make the most of your space and think outside of the box. It does not need to be just a space to store stock. Why not set up a backdrop to get social media content for your start-up? 

Create a customised and efficient space for you and your small business. The size of your storage unit will depend on your business needs. By balancing storage size with design and functionality, you can optimise your self storage space to ensure your start-up is a success.

Networking and collaborating with other start-ups in the self storage community can really help when starting up a small business.

Legal Implications of Starting up a Small Business 

Starting a business from a self storage unit in the UK requires consideration of zoning regulations, compliance, and legal requirements. Business owners must adhere to local zoning regulations to ensure their business aligns with identified land use regulations. 

Licensing requirements are crucial, with businesses operating from storage units needing to secure the appropriate permits and licences for legal operation. 

Moreover, it is important to consider insurance to protect your small business from potential risks and liabilities, ensuring compliance with insurance regulations.

Why Choose Magenta for Your Start Up?

There are a lot of things to consider when starting up a small business. One of the most important decisions you will make is the value and ethics of your business. At Magenta, we pride ourselves on more than just affordable and flexible storage solutions – we are committed to becoming greener for our customers and local communities.

We actively engage with local charities to support our communities in becoming greener too. In Autumn 2022 our Stirling Road branch acted as a drop-off location for Wrap Up London. London Businesses collected and repurposed clothes and other goods to help people at risk, including the homeless, refugees, and women and children fleeing from domestic abuse. 

Choosing Magenta for your start-up means becoming part of a community that cares about the environment and wants to make a positive impact.

Still Want to Start Up a Small Business But Not Sure if a Storage Unit is Right for You?

Magenta offers flexible office spaces in Banbury, Oxford, and Stirling Road. From private offices to collaborative workspaces. We have something to suit you and your business needs. There are advantages and disadvantages to starting a small business in a self storage unit. The decision ultimately comes down to the needs of your start-up business. Get in touch with us today and we can help you to decide whether it’s the right decision for you.