Self storage usually wins on security, flexibility and keeping things dry, while a rented garage can be cheaper and handy if there is one close by. A loft or a friend's spare room costs little or nothing, but comes with limits on space, access and insurance. The right choice depends on what you are storing, for how long and how often you need to get to it. Here is how the options compare.
The options at a glance
| Self storage | Rented garage | Loft or friend's space | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost | Monthly fee, varies by size and area | Monthly fee, often set by local landlords or councils | Free or low cost |
| Security | CCTV, gated access, alarms at many sites | Usually just the door lock | Depends on the home |
| Damp | Indoor units generally dry | Can be damp, especially older garages | Lofts get hot, cold and sometimes damp |
| Access | Set hours or 24-hour, drive-up at some sites | Usually any time | On someone else's schedule |
| Flexibility | Range of sizes, can often switch | One fixed size | Limited by available space |
| Insurance | Cover usually available or required | Can be harder to insure | May not be covered by anyone's policy |
Cost
Self storage prices depend on size and location. As a rough guide, MyBuilder puts small units (10-25 sq ft) at £20-£100 a month, medium units (50-150 sq ft) at £50-£200 and large units (200 sq ft and up) at £200-£400 or more. Our guide to how much self storage costs has more detail.
Garage rents vary widely by area and by who owns them. In some places a garage can be a cheaper way to get a lot of space, but compare carefully once you add your own lock, insurance and any damp protection. A loft or friend's space is usually the cheapest, though a thank-you gift or a share of the bills is fair if it goes on for months.
Security
Most purpose-built storage sites have gated entry, CCTV and individual unit locks, and many log every visit. A lock-up garage often relies on a single up-and-over door, and some sit in quiet rows with little natural surveillance. If you are storing anything valuable, ask the garage owner about locks and whether there has been any break-in history. A loft at home is fairly secure, but a friend's garage or shed is only as secure as their setup.
Damp and condition
This is where garages and lofts often fall down. Older garages can let in water, have concrete floors that draw up moisture, and swing between hot and cold. Lofts can get very hot in summer and cold in winter, which is hard on furniture, electronics, photos and documents.
Indoor self storage units are generally dry and more stable. If you are storing wooden furniture, mattresses or anything sensitive, that makes a real difference. Our guide to container vs indoor storage explains how different types of unit compare.
Access
A garage usually gives you access whenever you like, and you can often park right outside. Self storage hours vary, though many sites offer extended or 24-hour access. With a friend's space, you are fitting around their life, which can get awkward if you need things often. Lofts are fine for boxes but hard work for heavy or bulky items.
Insurance
Self storage stores usually offer cover or require you to have it, so it is clear where you stand. Garage contents can be harder to insure, and some policies have strict conditions on locks or exclude damp damage. If your things are in a friend's home, their policy probably will not cover your belongings, and yours may not either. Read more in self storage insurance explained.
Which should you choose?
- Choose self storage if you want good security, dry conditions, clear insurance and the option to change size. It suits house moves, renovations and business stock.
- Choose a garage if one is available nearby at a good price, you need frequent access and you are storing hardy items like tools, tyres or garden gear.
- Use a loft or friend's space for a few boxes of low-value, robust items for a short time.
If you are leaning towards self storage, our size guide will help you avoid paying for more space than you need.
The quickest way to see whether self storage beats a garage near you is to get real prices. Tell us what you need through Local Storage Quote and every suitable store near you can send you a price.
