Can traders use self-storage containers to store their stock and keep it safe? If so, what type of trader and what type of products?
If you buy and sell products, self-storage is a popular and affordable solution. You can access your stock easily, and it will be safe, secure, and dry.
There are two main self-storage choices. One is a warehouse unit of the type offered by Big Yellow and Safestore. The second is a standalone container that you can access 24/7. There are pluses and minuses for both. One factor you do need to check out is how easy it is to move your stock in and out.
Most warehouse units are not at ground level. You may need to use trolleys and lifts to move your stock from your vehicle to your storage space (and vice-versa). If you’re doing this regularly it may not always work out as the most effective use of your time.
This isn’t an issue with a self-storage container, because all access is at street level. You can just load up your vehicle and reverse straight up to your container. Then unlock the doors, and start loading or unloading. There’s no time wasted piling up trolleys or waiting for lifts. This is worth remembering if you’re making lots of trips! And you can usually access your container 24/7.
You can find out more about the pluses and minuses of both here.
There aren’t many restrictions on the type of goods you’re allowed to store in a container. This is one reason why a real mix of traders are using them every day to run successful businesses. (You can find out what you are not allowed to store in a container here.
Among traders who use containers are…
● Market traders
● eBay traders
● Amazon sellers
● Car boot professionals
● Furniture showrooms
● Antique dealers
● Clothing retailers
● Booksellers.
Traders are sometimes worried about damp and condensation, but this is not an issue. As long as you take nothing damp into a container, everything will stay bone dry. There’s more about damp and condensation here.
Security is not a problem either. Most container self-storage sites offer 24-hour, 365-day surveillance as well as round-the-clock access. This means you are not restricted to specific opening hours and can move stock in and out at any time.