Space Self Storage

02/04/2026

05/03/2026

Self Storage for Travellers and Expats

Traveling for an extended stretch or moving to a new country sounds simple on paper. Pack what you need, update your details, and get moving. In practice, most people discover a different problem: you can’t take your whole life with you, and you don’t always want to give it up either.

That’s where self storage earns its place. For travellers and expats, it’s often the most straightforward way to keep belongings safe while you’re between homes, countries, or plans.

Self storage isn’t only for moving day. It’s also for the in-between stages that come with long trips, temporary relocations, visa timelines, and rental contracts that don’t line up neatly. The goal is simple: keep what you need to keep, without paying for space you aren’t using or leaving valuables in the wrong place.

When Storage Makes Sense

Travellers use self storage for different reasons than local residents. The common thread is uncertainty. Plans change. Return dates move. Housing falls through. Sometimes you’re leaving because you want to, and sometimes it’s because you have to. In any of those situations, storage can act as a buffer.

It’s particularly useful when you’re subletting your place, moving out to travel, or relocating abroad with a limited shipping allowance. Many people also use it during a transition period: leaving one city before the next lease starts, taking a contract overseas, or moving back home temporarily while figuring out the next step.

The alternative is usually messier. You can try to split items across friends’ homes, store boxes in a garage that isn’t designed for it, or sell everything and rebuy later. Those options work sometimes. They also create a lot of friction, and they put your belongings at the mercy of other people’s space and priorities.

Choosing the Right Unit

Unit size comes down to what you’re storing and how you want to pack it. People often underestimate how much space they need when items aren’t broken down. Furniture takes volume fast. A small unit can hold more than you think if you disassemble what you can, stack safely, and use shelving.

Climate control is worth considering if you’re storing anything sensitive to temperature swings or humidity. Electronics, paper goods, some fabrics, and wooden furniture can suffer if conditions fluctuate. If you’re planning to be away for months, it’s usually better to pick a unit that protects your belongings, rather than saving a small amount and coming back to damage.

Access matters too. If you won’t be back for a year, you may not need frequent access. If you’re traveling through and might pick things up mid-trip, you’ll care about access hours, how easy it is to load and unload, and whether the facility is convenient to reach without a car.

Security and Peace of Mind

When you’re far away, small problems become bigger. If you’re storing belongings while abroad, you want to reduce the number of things that can go wrong. A well run facility helps with that. Gated access, surveillance, good lighting, and controlled entry don’t guarantee anything, but they lower risk and make it easier to feel confident that your items aren’t sitting in a vulnerable spot.

Insurance is another part of peace of mind. Many travellers assume their belongings are automatically covered. Often they aren’t, or coverage is limited when items are in storage. It’s worth checking what insurance you have, what it actually covers, and whether the facility offers an option that fits your situation.

Packing Like You Might Be Away Longer Than You Think
One of the most common mistakes travellers make is packing for the best case scenario. A six month trip turns into a year. A short overseas contract extends. A return date shifts because of work, family, or paperwork. Storage works best when you pack with that uncertainty in mind.

Use durable boxes, label them clearly, and keep an inventory list somewhere you can access remotely. Store the items you might need sooner near the front, and pack long term items deeper in the unit. Cover furniture properly, avoid trapping moisture, and leave some airflow where it makes sense. If you ever need a friend or family member to pick something up for you, your labeling system becomes the difference between a quick errand and a stressful afternoon.

The Practical Upside for Expats

For expats, storage can also make a move easier on the way in. Many people arrive in a new country with the essentials and keep a unit back home while they settle. That reduces shipping costs and avoids committing to a permanent setup before you understand the new city, the housing market, and your longer term plan.

It can also work the other way around. If you’re leaving a country and your next place isn’t ready, a storage unit can bridge the gap while you travel, finish paperwork, or line up housing.

Bottom Line

Self storage is a simple tool for a complicated phase of life. For travellers and expats, it offers a place to keep what matters while the rest of life stays in motion. The value isn’t only the space. It’s the flexibility and the relief of knowing your belongings are stored safely, packed properly, and waiting for you when you’re ready to come back.

If you’re looking to move and need a unit to help the transition then why not book your storage unit online or get in touch with our team today to discuss how we can help with your storage needs.

02/09/2025

Using Storage To Help With Downsizing After Retirement

Using Storage To Help With Downsizing After Retirement
The word “retirement” conjures up images of freedom, long awaited holidays, quality time with loved ones, and the joy of pursuing hobbies without the constraints of a 9 to 5. But for many of us there’s one additional step before you get to that peaceful new chapter – downsizing.

After decades of accumulating possessions in a family home, the thought of sorting through everything can feel overwhelming. How do you decide what to keep, what to sell, and what to give away when everything is so personal.

This is where self storage can come in handy, making the process of downsizing that much easier.

Three Piles of Downsizing

Before you even think about hiring a moving van, the key is to create a system. Forget a single “keep” and “discard” pile. The most effective approach for retirees is to adopt a three pile method:

The “Keeping” Pile: These are the non negotiables. The furniture that will fit perfectly in your new home, the kitchen essentials you use daily, and the cherished family heirlooms that must stay with you.

The “Getting Rid Of” Pile: This is for the obvious candidates. Broken items, clothes that no longer fit, and that dusty exercise machine that’s never been used! A good rule of thumb with items like this is if you haven’t used it in two years, it’s likely time to let it go. You can donate these items to charity, sell them at a garage sale, or pass them on to family.

The “Sort Later” Pile: This pile is for the items you’re on the fence about. It might be a large piece of furniture that might not fit your new home’s layout but holds sentimental value. Maybe it’s a collection you’re not ready to part with, or seasonal decorations you don’t need immediate access to. This is also the perfect place for items you want to pass on to your children or grandchildren but they’re not ready for them yet.

Self Storage Has Emotional and Practical Benefits

Instead of being pressured to make decisions you might later regret, self storage gives you time and space to deal with them. Moving into a new home is a huge adjustment. By using a storage unit, you can focus on getting settled without a house full of boxes. You can live in your new space for a few months and truly understand what you need. That antique dresser might feel wrong in your old home, but after a few months in your new place, you might discover it’s the perfect statement piece for the hallway.

You don’t have to choose between a clutter free home and your most treasured memories. A secure, climate controlled storage unit is the perfect sanctuary for family photo albums, heirlooms, and other irreplaceable items. This allows you to retain these precious connections to the past without them taking up valuable real estate in your downsized home.

Your seasonal items are great for putting into self storage also. Christmas decorations, camping gear, skis, etc – these items are perfect for a storage unit. They’re safe and accessible whenever you need them, but they don’t clog up your new cupboards or garage.

Smart Strategies for a Seamless Storage Experience

To get the most out of your self storage unit, a little bit of planning goes a long way.

Make An Inventory: Before you pack a single box, create a simple inventory list. Take photos of the larger items you’re storing. As you pack boxes, label them clearly and add them to your list.

Pack Smart: Disassemble large items like bed frames and tables to save space. Use stackable, uniform boxes. Place heavier items on the bottom and lighter ones on top. AKeep the boxes of items you will need to access more frequently towards the front of your unit.

Reassess Frequently: Set a reminder to reassess your storage unit down the line and see if you still want to hold on to everything. This gives you plenty of time to get comfortable in your new home, and then revisit your stored items with fresh eyes. If you haven’t thought about or missed something in that time, you’ll feel far more confident in letting it go.

Downsizing can be daunting, but self storage can make it easier. If you’d like to find out more about our services and how we can help here at Space Self Storage then be sure to get in touch with us

14/11/2024

9 Types of Businesses That Benefit from Self Storage

Self storage units are no longer just for personal use; they’ve become a useful solution for many businesses, especially small and medium sized ones.

Whether you’re a retailer with limited space or a service provider with specialised equipment, self storage can help streamline operations, reduce overhead, and keep your business running smoothly.

Flexible, affordable, and convenient, self storage units offer solutions to a range of business challenges. Here are 9 types of businesses that can greatly benefit from using self storage.

Ecommerce Businesses

With the rise of online shopping, ecommerce businesses are flourishing. However, managing inventory can be a logistical nightmare, especially for small businesses that don’t have the budget for large warehouses. Self storage units offer entrepreneurs a secure, affordable space to store their products.

Like many self storage facilities, here at Space Self Storage we offer climate controlled units, so you can rest easy knowing that temperature sensitive items like electronics or perishable goods are stored in optimal conditions. Additionally, with 24/7 access available at many locations, business owners can fulfil orders at any time, improving efficiency and customer satisfaction.

Contractors and Construction Companies

Contractors, electricians, plumbers, and other tradespeople often need a place to store their tools, equipment, and supplies. These items can be bulky and expensive, making it impractical to keep them in a truck or a home garage. Self storage provides a secure and convenient solution.

By storing materials and equipment in a self storage unit, they can free up space in vehicles and homes while ensuring tools are safe from theft or damage. Some storage facilities also offer drive up access, making it easier to load and unload heavy items, saving time and effort.

Event Planners

Event planners deal with a variety of items, from decorations and furniture to AV equipment, and these need to be stored and transported for different events. Since their inventory fluctuates based on the season and client needs, they often face the challenge of finding sufficient space to store all their equipment.

Self storage offers a perfect solution for event planners to keep their inventory safe and organised between events. Whether it’s storing seasonal decorations or bulky event equipment like tents and chairs, a storage unit allows event planners to keep everything in one secure location.

Landscaping Businesses

Landscaping businesses, particularly those that operate seasonally, can benefit from self storage to store tools, machinery, and materials like mulch, plants, and outdoor furniture. Lawn mowers, hedge trimmers, snow blowers, and other landscaping equipment take up a lot of space, and leaving them outdoors or in a garage could expose them to weather damage or theft.

By using a storage unit, landscaping businesses can keep their equipment safe, secure, and ready for use when the next season rolls around. This ensures that all machinery is in good working order when needed, avoiding unnecessary repairs or replacements.

Retail Stores
t shirts

Whether it’s a boutique or a larger retail operation, businesses that sell physical products often need extra storage for excess inventory. Limited backroom space in retail stores can make it difficult to hold all the stock necessary to meet customer demand, particularly during peak seasons such as holidays.

A self storage unit allows retailers to store overflow stock, seasonal products, or promotional materials like signs and decorations. This helps avoid clutter in the store itself and ensures that stock is readily available when needed. For retailers that operate online and offline, self storage can serve as a cost effective warehouse solution.

Catering Companies

Catering businesses, especially smaller operations, often need to store a variety of equipment, including tables, chairs, serving ware, and utensils. Renting a larger commercial kitchen or additional storage space for this equipment can be costly, especially for businesses that only operate during certain events or seasons.

Self storage provides catering businesses with an affordable, secure space to store items like portable cooking equipment, dishes, and non perishable supplies. Since many storage units offer flexible rental terms, catering businesses can easily scale up or down based on their needs during peak or slow seasons.

Photographers and Videographers

Professional photographers and videographers tend to accumulate a lot of gear over time—cameras, lenses, lighting equipment, props, backdrops, and more. Storing all of this in a home or small studio can quickly become overwhelming. Additionally, sensitive equipment needs to be stored in a controlled environment to prevent damage from humidity or extreme temperatures.

Self storage units, particularly climate controlled ones, provide an ideal solution for keeping valuable photography and video gear safe. By using a storage unit, photographers can free up space in their homes or studios while ensuring their equipment is protected when not in use.

Artisans and Craft Sellers
artisan lampshades

Small businesses that sell handmade goods, such as jewellery, pottery, textiles, or woodwork, often face the challenge of storing both finished products and raw materials. Since these businesses typically operate out of home based workshops or small studios, space can quickly become limited.

Self storage units allow artisans and craft sellers to store excess inventory, tools, and materials without cluttering their creative spaces. This enables them to keep their workspace tidy and focus on production, while still having easy access to their stored items when they need them for sales or craft fairs.

Nonprofit Organisations

Nonprofits often need extra space to store donations, event supplies, promotional materials, and office equipment. From organising food drives to storing supplies for fundraising events, nonprofits have a range of storage needs that fluctuate throughout the year.

Self storage can offer an affordable solution for nonprofits, helping them avoid the expense of renting larger office spaces. Many storage facilities also offer discounts to nonprofits, making it an even more budget friendly option. With the extra storage space, nonprofits can focus their resources on their mission rather than on finding room for donations or supplies.

Support For All Types Of Businesses

Self storage has evolved into a crucial resource for many different types of businesses. From small e-commerce shops to large construction companies, the flexibility, affordability, and convenience of self storage units make them a perfect match for businesses needing extra space.

If you’re interested in finding out more about how we can help your business with your storage needs please feel free to get in touch with our friendly team, or browse our range of available units.

17/10/2024

A Checklist for First Time Storage Customers

Self storage is an excellent solution for managing overflow when you need extra space. Whether you’re moving, decluttering, or simply need a place to store seasonal items, renting a storage unit can be incredibly helpful.

However, as a first-time self storage user, you might find the process a bit overwhelming. From selecting the right facility to packing your belongings properly, there are several important steps to ensure your experience is smooth and stress-free. Here’s your ultimate checklist to guide you through the process.

Assessing Your Storage Needs

The first step in your self storage journey is to assess what you need to store. Take inventory of your items, considering their sizes, shapes, and any special storage requirements. This assessment is crucial in determining the size of the storage unit you’ll need.

Storage units come in various sizes, from small lockers to large garage like spaces. Understanding the amount of space your belongings will require helps you avoid renting a unit that’s either too large or too small.

Additionally, consider whether your items require special storage conditions. Items sensitive to temperature or humidity, such as electronics, documents, or antique furniture, may need a climate-controlled unit. Ensuring that your unit meets these needs will protect your belongings over time.

Researching Self Storage Facilities

Choosing the right storage facility is key to a positive experience. Location is an important factor; a facility that’s conveniently located near your home or workplace will save you time and effort, especially if you need frequent access to your items.

Security features should also be a top priority. Look for facilities with strong security measures, such as 24/7 surveillance, gated access, and individual unit alarms, to ensure your belongings are safe.

Consider the facility’s access hours as well. Some storage units offer 24/7 access, while others have more limited hours. Make sure the facility’s hours align with your schedule. If possible, visit the facility in person to check for cleanliness and maintenance.

A clean, well-maintained facility indicates that the management is diligent about the care of the premises, which often translates into better care for your stored items.

Understanding the Costs

Cost is another critical factor in selecting a storage unit. Self storage costs can vary widely based on location, unit size, and additional features like climate control. Make sure you understand the full pricing structure before signing a contract.

The base rent is usually determined by the size of the unit and the location of the facility. However, there may be additional fees, such as administration fees, late payment penalties, or charges for insurance.

It’s also worth asking about promotions or discounts that the facility might offer. Some storage companies provide deals like the first month free or discounts for long-term rentals, which can help reduce costs.

Packing Your Items Properly

Properly packing your belongings is crucial for their safety during storage. Start by investing in quality packing materials, including sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, and furniture covers. These materials will help prevent damage during transport and while your items are in storage.

As you pack, clearly label each box with its contents and the room it came from. This will make it much easier to find specific items when you need them later. If you have large furniture items, consider disassembling them to save space and reduce the risk of damage. Be sure to keep screws and small parts in labelled bags taped to the furniture.

When loading your storage unit, plan the layout carefully. Create an aisle down the middle of the unit so you can easily access items in the back without having to unload the entire unit. This organisation will save you time and hassle later on.

Planning Your Move-In Day

Moving items into a storage unit can be physically demanding, so it’s important to plan ahead. If you have large or heavy items, enlist help from friends or family, or consider hiring professional movers. On moving day, use your inventory list as a checklist to ensure nothing is forgotten.

To protect your most valuable or sentimental items, place them towards the back of the unit or in boxes that are clearly marked. This reduces the risk of accidental damage or loss.

Reviewing the Contract Carefully

Before signing a rental agreement, make sure to read the contract thoroughly. Pay attention to the rental terms, including the length of the lease and the terms for renewing or ending the contract. It’s also important to understand the payment terms, including when payments are due and what happens if you miss a payment. Be aware of any facility policies, such as prohibited items or access limitations, to avoid any surprises later.

Organising Regular Check in

Once your items are in storage, it’s a good idea to check on them periodically. Regular visits allow you to inspect for any signs of damage, such as moisture, pests, or dust buildup. If you’re storing items seasonally, plan to rotate them in and out of storage as needed to keep your belongings fresh and ready for use.

Conclusion

Using a self storage unit for the first time doesn’t have to be a daunting experience. With the right preparation and a clear plan, you can ensure that your belongings are stored safely and securely. By following this ultimate checklist, you’ll be well on your way to a smooth and successful self storage experience.

23/09/2024

Tips To Get The Most Out Of Your Storage Unit

Renting a self storage unit can be a game changer when it comes to freeing up space in your home, organising your belongings, or keeping things safe during a move or transition.

However, many people make the mistake of simply packing their unit full without thinking about how to maximise the space and keep things organised. Without a proper plan, it’s easy for your storage unit to become cluttered, making it hard to find things when you need them or even damaging your items.

To ensure you make the most of your storage unit and keep everything in tip top condition, here are some practical tips to help you organise, protect, and access your belongings with ease.

Choose the Right Size Unit
One of the first steps to getting the most out of your storage unit is choosing the right size. It’s important to select a unit that’s large enough to store all your items but not so big that you end up paying for unnecessary space. If you’re storing just a few boxes and small furniture pieces, a smaller unit might be enough. On the other hand, if you’re planning to store larger items like appliances, furniture, or even seasonal gear, you’ll need to go up a size.

Make an inventory of everything you plan to store before renting the unit to help you get an idea of the right size unit for your needs.

Create an Organised Layout

To maximise your storage unit, organisation is key. Instead of randomly stacking boxes and furniture, create a layout that allows for easy access and maximises vertical space. Start by placing larger, heavier items such as furniture or appliances toward the back of the unit, and stack lighter, smaller boxes on top.

Leave a pathway down the middle or on one side of the unit so you can easily walk through and access any item. If you’re using shelves, place frequently used items at the front and the less important ones toward the back.

Label Everything Clearly

It may sound obvious, but labelling your boxes properly will save you a lot of frustration when it comes time to retrieve something from your storage unit. Clearly write the contents of each box on multiple sides, so you can identify items without having to move everything around.

If you’re storing a lot of boxes, you may also want to create an inventory list. This list can include what’s in each box, which section of the unit it’s stored in, and any other relevant information. This way, you’ll know exactly where to look when you need to find something.

Use Shelving to Maximise Vertical Extra Space

Most storage units have high ceilings, giving you the chance to take advantage of vertical space. You can maximise storage efficiency by bringing in some sturdy, adjustable shelving units. Shelves allow you to neatly stack boxes or other items without worrying about crushing things underneath heavier objects.

Using shelves also makes it easier to access what you need without having to unstack and restack everything in the unit. It’s especially helpful for keeping smaller, fragile items safe and accessible.

Disassemble Large Furniture

To make the most of your storage space, disassemble large furniture items whenever possible. This applies to beds, tables, bookshelves, and even some chairs. Breaking down furniture into smaller components means you can stack or store them more efficiently, saving valuable floor space.

When disassembling furniture, store all screws, bolts, and small parts in labelled plastic bags and tape them securely to the piece they belong to. This will prevent you from losing important parts when it’s time to reassemble your furniture.

Use Quality Packing Materials

The way you pack your items will directly impact their condition when it comes time to retrieve them. Investing in high quality packing materials can help protect your belongings while they’re in storage. Use sturdy boxes that are the same size for easy stacking, and avoid overloading them to prevent damage.

Store Items Strategically

When placing items in your storage unit, think strategically about how you arrange them based on how often you’ll need to access them. Items that you’re likely to need more frequently, like seasonal clothes or holiday decorations, should be placed toward the front of the unit for easy access.

Less frequently used items, such as furniture or off season sports equipment, can go toward the back. Organising your storage unit in this way will save you time and effort when you need to find something quickly.

Use Clear Plastic Bins for Visibility

While cardboard boxes are the go to for most storage, using clear plastic bins can be an even better option, especially for smaller items. These bins allow you to easily see the contents without having to open each one, saving you time when you’re looking for something specific.

Clear plastic bins are also sturdier than cardboard boxes, offering better protection from moisture and wear over time.

Avoid Storing Prohibited or Perishable Items

While self storage units can house a wide range of belongings, there are some items you should never store, such as food, plants, or hazardous materials. Food and perishables can attract pests, while hazardous materials (like flammable liquids or chemicals) pose safety risks.

Always check with your storage provider about what is and isn’t allowed in your unit, and avoid storing anything that could cause damage to your belongings or others around you.

Make the Most of Your Extra Space

A self storage unit can be a valuable extension of your home, offering the extra space you need to keep your belongings safe and organised. By following these tips—choosing the right size unit, packing strategically, and staying organised—you can make the most of your storage unit and ensure that your items are easily accessible when you need them.

Whether you’re using the unit for a short term move, seasonal storage, or long term decluttering, a little planning goes a long way in getting the most out of your self storage experience.

23/08/2024

A Guide to Self Storage Packing Supplies

When it comes to moving or decluttering your space, self storage units offer a convenient solution to keep your belongings safe and organised. However, to make the most of your storage unit, having the right packing supplies is essential.

This guide to self storage packing supplies will help you choose the right materials, ensure your items are protected, and make your packing process smooth and efficient.

Choose the Right Boxes
The foundation of any packing endeavor is the humble box. There are various types of boxes suited to different needs and selecting the right one is essential.

Standard cardboard boxes are your go to for most items, available in multiple sizes to accommodate household goods, clothing, kitchenware, and more. For heavier items like books, tools, and appliances, heavy duty boxes offer increased durability.

Specialty boxes are designed for specific items: wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes, dish pack boxes with dividers for fragile kitchen items, and file boxes for documents and office supplies.

Choosing the right size is crucial: small boxes are ideal for heavy items like books, medium boxes are great for toys, small appliances, and electronics, while large boxes are best for bulky but lightweight items such as bedding and linens.

Packing Tape
Packing tape is another essential item in your arsenal. Standard packing tape, available in clear or brown, is perfect for sealing boxes.

For heavier boxes, heavy duty packing tape offers stronger adhesion. Masking tape is useful for labelling boxes and short term sealing. To make the process efficient, use a tape dispenser for even application, and reinforce the bottom and top seams of each box with at least two layers of tape.

Protective Materials
Protective materials are indispensable when it comes to safeguarding your items. Bubble wrap is excellent for cushioning fragile items like glassware, ceramics, and electronics, and can also fill empty spaces in boxes to prevent shifting.

Packing paper is versatile and less bulky than bubble wrap, making it ideal for wrapping dishes, glassware, and other fragile items, as well as filling gaps and preventing scratches.

Foam peanuts are great for filling large voids in boxes and providing overall cushioning, especially for oddly shaped items.

For larger pieces of furniture, plastic or fabric covers protect against dust, dirt, and moisture, ensuring your sofas, mattresses, and other large items remain clean and intact.

Labels
Clear labelling is crucial for organised storage. Use self adhesive labels to mark boxes with their contents and the room they belong to, and consider colour coded labels to distinguish between different categories of items.

Permanent markers are essential for writing directly on boxes; choose waterproof markers to ensure labels remain legible even if they get damp.

Blankets
Moving blankets and pads are vital for protecting larger items from scratches and dings during transport.

Wrapping furniture, appliances, and other bulky items in moving blankets will safeguard them from damage.

Stretch wrap is another useful tool for securing bundles of items and protecting furniture. It can hold drawers shut, bundle long items together, and keep dust off upholstered furniture.

Additional Tools
A few additional tools and accessories can make your packing process more efficient. A sharp box cutter is essential for unpacking, allowing you to open boxes quickly without damaging their contents.

A tape measure helps check the dimensions of your storage unit and plan the layout for optimal space utilisation. And you can protect your hands from cuts, scrapes, and blisters with a good pair of work gloves, especially when handling heavy or sharp items.

box cutter



Inventory and Organisation
Efficient packing involves a bit of planning. Start by creating an inventory of the items you plan to store, which will help you determine the types and quantities of packing supplies you need.

Distribute weight evenly across boxes to avoid making them too heavy, place heavier items at the bottom and lighter items on top, and fill gaps with packing paper or foam peanuts to prevent shifting.

Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to, which will make it easier to locate items when you need them. Use ample cushioning for fragile items, wrapping each piece individually and placing them snugly in boxes to avoid movement. Finally, maximise your storage unit’s space by stacking boxes carefully, placing heavier boxes at the bottom and lighter ones on top to maintain stability.

Optimal Storage
Having the right self storage packing supplies can make a significant difference in the safety and organisation of your stored items. By investing in quality materials and following the tips outlined in this guide, you’ll ensure your belongings are well protected and easy to access when needed. Happy packing!

If you want to find out more about how we can help you with your self storage needs then why not check out our different self storage units.