In the UK, self storage comes in two main forms. Indoor units sit inside a building, often a converted warehouse. Container storage uses steel shipping containers on a secure outdoor yard. Industry figures show container sites make up a large share of UK stores - in the most recent full count, 1,135 of the 2,915 UK self storage sites counted by the Self Storage Association were mainly container based. Both do the same basic job, but they suit different people.
Side by side
| Indoor unit | Shipping container | |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Usually higher per sq ft | Usually lower per sq ft |
| Access | Trolleys and lifts, sometimes upper floors | Drive up and unload straight in |
| Sizes | Many sizes from lockers upwards | Mostly 10ft, 20ft and 40ft |
| Climate | Dry and often temperature-stable | Can get condensation without ventilation |
| Location | Often in towns and retail parks | Often edge of town or rural yards |
| Opening hours | Set hours, some 24/7 | Often extended or 24/7 access |
Choose a container if...
- You are storing bulky or heavy items and want to reverse a van right up to the door.
- Price matters more than climate control.
- You are storing tools, garden equipment, building materials or business stock that does not mind seasonal temperature changes.
- You need a large space - a 40ft container is often the cheapest way to get 300+ sq ft.
Choose an indoor unit if...
- You are storing wooden furniture, mattresses, documents, electronics or clothes that could suffer in damp.
- You want a smaller space than 10ft, such as a locker or 25 sq ft unit.
- You want staff on site, a reception and a more retail-style experience.
Questions to ask a container yard
- Are the containers ventilated or lined to reduce condensation?
- Is the yard covered by CCTV, and is the gate access-controlled?
- Can I bring my own padlock, and is a disc lock or lock box fitted?
- Is insurance included or do I need my own?
Can't decide? Choose "indoor or container" when you request quotes and you will hear from both kinds of store near you, so you can compare real prices.
