How to Successfully Run a Business From a Self Storage Unit

A self storage unit is usually a place for businesses of all sizes to store important documents, stock, equipment, uniforms and much more. Running a business from a self storage unit is a different matter to plain old storage, but can be a remarkably efficient way to operate without large overhead costs. If you’re interested in unleashing your inner entrepreneur with reduced financial risk, read on for expertly-led advice on running a successful business from one of Magenta’s self storage units.

The advantages:

The potential for scalability

With self storage for business, you have the potential to scale your operations up or down as necessary. Self storage units vary in size and depth, and because of the flexible lease agreements we explore below, you can simply alter the unit you’re using if you’re experiencing a higher intake of customers or stock. There’s no need to limit your operations to save on cash, or squeeze into a too-small space.

Enjoy flexible lease agreements

Being trapped in a rental agreement for a space that’s too small for your growing business is a pain that countless entrepreneurs have faced. Particularly for small business storage purposes, self storage units tend to operate on flexible lease agreements – often on a month-to-month basis – and this enables you to switch up your storage unit should your business grow at will.

Your premises are secured

For the usual commercial spaces, securing the premises is a tiresome task. Oftentimes, you have to pay for manned security guards, additional fencing, strict biometric access and more. But, through using business self storage, your premises are already secured without your intervention. Magenta’s self storage facilities have 24 hour CCTV surveillance and utilise PIN access control systems to make sure that only authorised personnel can access the storage facility, all of which protect your business assets from harm.

The disadvantages:

Not all facilities permit commercial activities

Storing your business-related goods in a self storage unit is one thing, but carrying out commercial operations is another. Some facilities may not want to take on the liabilities associated with hosting a commercial enterprise. You must consider the legality of such a venture. You’ll still need a business permit, and your business must adhere to local zoning laws. These laws determine where and how a business can operate – they can’t be ignored!

Self storage units can be inconvenient to access

Using self storage for business is inherently limited, though not to a great degree. Flexible lease agreements do give you the option to expand elsewhere whenever necessary, but when you’re starting out, your unit may be inconvenient to access. Sometimes, self storage facilities are situated in remote areas without many accessible features like ramps. They are also often compact in size, depending on their price and location. Fitting in an entire business can become a tight squeeze if you’re not careful! To offset this disadvantage, we’d recommend careful planning. Don’t keep assets or equipment that won’t benefit your business – space-saving is essential.

There may be a lack of facilities for customers

If you’re selling goods or services, it’s important to consider the facilities offered by storage units. Do you have enough room for employees and customers? Is there a dedicated staff area for breaks and meetings? Be sure that, if your business is dependent on in-person service, there’s enough room to accommodate everyone. Space shouldn’t be tight, as this may be off-putting to your customers.

How to achieve success

Many businesses thrive in self storage units. E-commerce companies, artisans, nonprofits and small-scale manufacturers find these environments productive, spacious and financially wise. A lot of their success depends on how they have structured and set up their storage space. We cannot understate the importance of planning and preparation!

First, you should scout out the local competition. How have other local businesses used self storage units to their advantage? How much do they pay per month, and how many customers do they get? If you have a high number of people passing by your storage unit in a central location, you’re likely to be more successful than your remote counterparts. It’s important to understand your competition because then succeeding them becomes simpler!

When it comes to setting up your storage space well, be sure to choose the perfect facility for you. Shipping containers, warehouses and lock-up garages all have many different advantages and constraints that could make or break your business.

Ultimately, think carefully about the balance of accessibility and security for your storage space, too. You could opt for keyless entry, which would make filtering customers and transporting goods in and out much more secure. CCTV is also a clever investment. A safer business is a respected business, one that customers frequent.

And, to make sure you’re catering to as wide a customer base as possible, include accessible features in your self storage business if they aren’t pre-existing. These could range from ramps to lower shelves, and guaranteeing enough space for wheelchairs to manoeuvre; all great ideas that will assure your success in future.

To invest in self storage for business for your own operations, contact us at Magenta Self Storage, we have a team of friendly faces who are always on hand to answer any questions, and help advise on what storage solution is best for you and your business.