5 Self-Storage Tips for Business Owners
If you run a business, the last thing you want to do is worry about the lack of space in the office, workshop or display area. The messy or cluttered appearance of these rooms will not leave a good impression on your customers.
Space management problems can be easily solved by renting a self-service storage unit. It can be a cost-effective solution too, especially if you:
- Downsize, remodel, or renovate your business.
- Relocate to a new area.
- Store seasonal items such as tents, outdoor stalls or patio furniture.
- Store excess inventory, documents, or office supplies.
Here are some tips for business storage that’ll keep your office space clean and collaborative:
Choose the Right Storage Unit Size for Your Business
Finding the perfect fit starts with understanding your company’s storage needs. Whether you’re managing extra inventory, archiving documents, or keeping seasonal displays out of the way, selecting the right size can save you both time and money.
Use our Size Guide to compare unit dimensions and find the best match for your equipment, boxes, and shelving layouts.
Keep Security at the Top of Your List
Every business has assets worth protecting. Look for facilities with 24-hour video surveillance, coded gate access, and secure lighting. Our security features are designed to give business owners peace of mind — whether you’re storing inventory, tools, or company vehicles.
Consider climate control of sensitive items 🥵
For computer equipment, sensitive documents, pharmaceutical samples, furniture or anything that may be affected by vermin, extreme heat, cold, or humidity, storage units with climate control functions should be seriously considered. That way you will ensure that your items stay in their best shape for as long as needed.
Place your boxes strategically 📦
Make sure you can easily access the boxes or items you often need. Place the most important boxes at the front of your storage unit and make sure you have enough room to move around to get to items at the back. Going vertical is a good way to ensure this - use the height of your unit and make room to walk around.
Make an inventory list 📝
You could spend ages looking for items that are no longer in your storage unit. Create an inventory list of your items and ‘check out’ when you remove them. This way you’ll know exactly what is in your unit at all times and you will find what you need faster.
FAQ
Question: What size storage unit does a business need?
Answer: The right storage unit size depends on what your business needs to store. A small office may only need space for documents and supplies, while a retailer or contractor may need room for inventory, shelving, tools, or equipment. Make a list of your largest items first, then choose a unit with enough room for walking space and future growth.
Question: Can businesses use self storage for inventory?
Answer: Yes, businesses can use self storage for inventory, especially if they need extra space outside of a storefront, office, or warehouse. Storage can work well for seasonal products, overflow stock, packaging materials, event supplies, or promotional items. Keep inventory organized with labeled bins, shelving, and a simple checkout system so items are easy to find.
Question: Should business documents be stored in a climate-controlled unit?
Answer: Business documents may be better protected in a climate-controlled unit, especially if they need to be stored for several months or longer. Paper files, contracts, records, and printed materials can be sensitive to moisture, heat, and humidity. Use sealed file boxes, label everything clearly, and avoid placing important paperwork directly on the floor.
Question: How can I organize a business storage unit?
Answer: To organize a business storage unit, place frequently used items near the front and long-term storage items toward the back. Use shelves, labels, clear bins, and a simple aisle layout so your team can access items quickly. Group boxes by category, season, department, or product type, and keep an inventory list updated whenever items move.
Question: Is self storage useful for small businesses?
Answer: Self storage can be useful for small businesses that need more room but are not ready for a larger office, retail space, or warehouse. It can help store inventory, equipment, records, displays, furniture, and seasonal items. A well-organized storage unit can reduce clutter and make the main business space more professional and functional.
Question: What should businesses avoid putting in storage?
Answer: Businesses should avoid storing prohibited, unsafe, or highly perishable items. This may include food that can spoil, hazardous materials, flammable products, illegal items, or anything that violates the storage facility’s rules. Before moving items into storage, review the rental agreement and ask the facility team if you are unsure about a specific product or material.
