Is Cheap Self Storage the Best Storage?

Picking a self storage unit isn't just about finding the cheapest option. From location and unit size to security and climate control, what you pay shapes what you get. Cut corners on cost and you could end up paying a much higher price when it comes to your belongings.

How the price of self storage affects quality & security

As the cost of living continues to go up, finding ways to save money and cut corners financially is more and more important. There’s a balance however, between cost and quality. Self storage might seem like simply an empty space to leave your possessions, but in fact there are many considerations before you store your things, whatever their value – but especially if you plan to store anything in a storage unit that is expensive, delicate or invaluable. Cheaper doesn’t necessarily mean better, and it’s important that you find the self storage solution that suits your needs best.

Location, Location, Location (of your Storage Unit)

One of the main factors that will affect how cheap your self storage room will be, is the storage facilities’ location. London is the most expensive place for storage units in the UK, followed by the South East, East Anglia, and the South West England. 

Within London, storage facilities that are more central can be more pricey in general too. It might make sense to use a storage facility that’s further out to make the storage price cheaper, but consider how much you’ll pay in fuel to get there, especially if you drop off and pick up things at your storage unit regularly. 

Ease of access, in terms of location, is also important. Say you use a storage locker for your wardrobe overspill, and want to pick up items on the way to – or after– work, a storage facility that’s en route might be a better idea than one that’s a long drive out of your way. Even if you don’t plan to switch your stored items that regularly, distance can still sting you when you pick your possessions up again. For example, if you are storing boxes between a house move, you’ll need to factor in a longer travel time (and potential traffic delays) if you’re paying movers with a van or truck.

With Cost, Storage Size Matters

One of the biggest factors that influences a self storage quote and price is the size of the storage room. How much storage space you rent is key – the smaller the cheaper, generally. At Big Yellow, we offer smaller locker-sized storage lockers that can be more affordable, and are popular with students. Our storage lockers can help keep costs down, but the lockers are obviously limited in size. 

If you decide on a larger storage room, there are several considerations. Firstly, does it have enough storage space to store your possessions safely, so they won’t topple or break, or damage anything with too much weight with boxes stacked on each other? This is important. You want to protect the items you keep in self storage, safely. 

Another consideration is – will you able to upsize or downsize the unit if your needs change? Downsizing a storage room, if you collect some of your items, for example, is a great way to lower the monthly rental cost and ensure your storage is cheaper. Make sure to discuss this with your storage facility staff when you make initial contact. How easy will it be to downsize (or upsize if you need to)? Are there any terms you should be aware of? Any hidden costs? Make sure you get visibility before making any decisions.

Safe & Sound (Storage)

We’ve already touched on keeping your possessions safe in your storage room, by not overcrowding it, but what about general storage security? Obviously, with lots of people coming and going from a storage facility, you want to make sure your stored items are completely safe. Some cheaper storage facilities, however, may not have as stringent a security policy as others. Security starts at the entrance at the facility – are there perimeter fences and security cameras? How easy is it to access the storage facility – by key, by pin code? Do people have access over night? With the storage unit itself, how is the door secured? Are there cameras in the hallways? 

At Big Yellow, we have a range of security protocols to protect your storage room and your stored possessions including externally monitored 24 hour CCTV, individually alarmed storage units, electronic security gates and mobile security patrols. It might not seem like the first consideration when researching the cost of self storage near you, but it’s important, so keep it top of mind.

Another issue to think about is temperature and humidity. Many storage facilities are converted warehouses or old office buildings which can be very drafty. Sudden temperature changes can damage stored items, so make sure you discuss this with your storage company before making a final decision.

Cheap Storage Deals & Discounts

A lot of storage companies will use special deals to entice you into using storage with them. Some self storage companies offer discounts for students, seniors, and military personnel. Again, make sure you understand the true cost of your self storage, especially if and when a special deal finishes. 

Some storage facilities may give you a discount or a cheaper deal, but their security could not be up to scratch. Or that cheap deal could have you tied in to some hidden costs. If the storage facility is a converted building, you are more likely to have issues with wind, heat, or even mice and rats. Ensure you have all your bases covered so there are no nasty surprises when you collect your stored possessions. Cheaper storage can be a mirage – if the facility does not protect your items completely, then it’s not doing its job.

Speak to a Human to Save Money

A staggering 60% of people incorrectly estimate how much storage space they actually need when getting an online self storage quote. Overestimating is easy to do – but it will mean you pay for more storage than you actually require to store your belongings. Put simply, less space means less cost, means cheaper storage.

To take the guesswork out of finding the right storage unit, and the right storage price, call the storage facility’s help number, and speak to an expert advisor who can help you get an exact storage quote cost near you.

When looking for a self storage solution, have your wits about you, and make sure to ask all the pertinent questions, and hopefully you’ll find the local, safe, well-priced self storage that suits you best.