What Businesses Can You Run From a Storage Unit?

Odd as it may sound, there are many businesses you can run from a storage unit. You may have heard of people doing just this – for example, those with home-based enterprises; those needing more storage space; and those wanting interim alternatives as they move offices. These people are not just running their businesses from self-storage, but are also doing so successfully and saving money at the same time.

Do you want to explore business storage options or find out more about operating businesses from a self-storage unit? Maybe you already operate a dropshipping company and want more information on how a storage unit can help with space and cost savings. This article looks at the types of businesses you can run from a storage unit and the benefits of doing so.

1. Online retailers

Online retailers often manage these enterprises from home. Inventory can quickly take up space and turn living areas into cluttered nightmares. A self-storage unit unclutters your home. It is the ideal place to keep inventory, fulfil and pack orders, and even handle your admin. You can easily add shelves or cabinets and a packing desk to make this a functional workspace.

2. Dropshipping businesses

Dropshipping businesses are online storefronts that market products and order them from suppliers when their orders come in. It is one of the businesses you can run from a storage facility. A self-storage unit is ideal for temporary inventory storage as goods arrive before going out to customers. A few shelves and a desk are all you need to create a quiet workspace away from home. It is also perfect for the long-term storage of clothing items and similar goods.

3. Print-on-demand businesses

Similar to dropshipping, print-on-demand businesses create tailor-made products after people order them. Popular goods include t-shirts, mugs, posters and caps. Third parties typically print and ship the goods. A self-storage unit provides interim, organised storage space for these items. All you need is a desk to perfect your designs.

4. Personal trainers

Personal trainers, especially those who are self-employed, often need storage space for their equipment. A self-storage unit is the perfect place to store bulky equipment. It is secure and also protects expensive training tools from environmental damage. It also makes it easy to retrieve the equipment needed on the day. Fit racks and shelves to organise and store your smaller items.

5. Event planners

From files to boxes and promotional goods, event planning involves a mix of paperwork and objects. If not ordered, it is easy to misplace things or forget important appointments. A self-storage unit provides an ordered space where you can work in peace and keep your finger on the pulse of your business. A desk, filing cabinets, and shelves with airtight containers are all you need to plan showstopping events.

6. Tutors

Educational tools and supplies take up a lot of space in classrooms or home-based teaching locations. A self-storage unit unclutters these locations while making it easy to access anything that is needed. It is large enough for bulky items such as portable whiteboards and audio-visual equipment. You can add a few shelves for books and other stationery.

7. Car spares retailers

Car spares retailers often need extra space for the storage of parts. Storage units protect inventory against the elements, making them ideal for short- and long-term storage. You can easily install racks to order different spares and boost efficiency when restocking your store.

8. eBay, Amazon and Etsy sellers

Do you sell goods on eBay, Amazon or Etsy? A self-storage unit is dry and secure, making it the ideal place to store anything from books and clothes to gadgets and souvenirs. Partitioned racks help you organise and track your orders.

9. Handmade crafters

It is easy to turn a self-storage unit into a crafting workshop. It has more than enough space for all your materials and tools. You can install hooks and shelves for raw materials. This orders things and also creates more space for bulky equipment. Use airtight containers for your bits and bobs.

10. Fashion designers

Sewing machines, cutting tables, mannequins and materials, as well as all the equipment, take up a lot of space in your home. Use a self-storage unit as your design studio to save space and create a dedicated place where you work. It easily accommodates everything and even has space for added rails and racks.

11. Furniture sellers

Whether you refurbish and flip second-hand furniture or sell new goods, a storage unit is essential. It is large enough to fit all your items and makes it easier to find and dispatch sold furniture. Consider adding a small desk where you can handle admin.

12. Photographers or videographers

Have you dreamed of having your own studio but always thought that this was out of reach? You can quickly convert a self-storage unit into a photography or videography studio. It provides secure storage for your equipment and props (such as bulky armchairs). Also, it is a fluid space where you can set up different backgrounds and scenes for clients.

13. Party rental businesses

Self-storage is a must for party rental companies. All the odds and ends (from party favours to stacks of tablecloths) can quickly clutter your home. A self-storage unit is not only big enough for all these things but also keeps items safe and dry. Add a few racks and airtight containers to keep items ordered.

14. Mobile repair businesses

A self-storage unit is just the place for your mobile repair business. You can fit shelves and containers for all your spare parts and add a table or two where you can work. This unit protects delicate electronics from harsh conditions, keeping them safe and dry.

15. Theatre companies or TV productions

A theatre or television company has a lot of set designs, equipment, props, costumes and more. It is simply not practical to store all these items backstage or in a studio, and a small storage area is just not sufficient. A self-storage unit solves this problem – it is big enough, secure and easy to access.

What do I need to run a business from a storage unit?

You must get a few things in place before running your business from a storage unit. Let’s take a closer look at the legal requirements and essential equipment.

Legal and administrative requirements

As with any enterprise, you must know the legal requirements for running your business from a storage unit. It is important to finalise these matters before you start your operations.

• Business licence: These are listed on the government’s website.
• Business insurance: A buffer against unplanned and unexpected accidents or disasters.
• Storage unit agreement: Does your storage unit facility allow business activities, and what are the month-to-month and year-to-year stipulations of your agreement?

Essential equipment and supplies

You must consider your ‘infrastructure’ requirements. This includes equipment, supplies, shelving and workbenches. Examine things such as:

• A reliable internet connection or signal: Remember, you can also hotspot your mobile phone if needed.
• Electricity for equipment: Consider solar or battery-based power supplies if necessary.
• Equipment: Devices such as computers and printers or special equipment such as sewing machines or grinders.
• Furniture: Considerations such as desks and chairs.
• Storage: Shelving, cabinets and containers to order and preserve raw materials and finished products.
• Packaging materials: Such as boxes, tape and labels.

What are the benefits of using a storage unit for my business?

Running a business from a storage unit has many benefits.

Cost-effective

Storage units are much cheaper than renting commercial spaces. The rental agreements are also flexible, which means that you can align the costs of the storage unit with your specific needs.

Increased organisation

Using a storage unit for inventory improves organisation and stock control. It also boosts efficiency in your primary workplace as it reduces clutter. Storage units for online sellers ensure that their homes remain neat and tidy.

Security

Secure storage is a big plus for any business. There is 24/7 CCTV monitoring and access requires proof of identity. This level of security can also reduce your insurance premiums.

Flexibility

Thanks to 24/7 access, it’s a breeze to retrieve and store stock, day or night. Also, you don’t have to worry about stairs or traffic, which further streamlines your operations.

Choose Loft Self Storage for running your local business

There is a huge variety of businesses you can run from a storage facility, and this option is definitely worth considering. It is, however, crucial to choose the right storage unit company as a partner in this endeavour. Also, your storage unit must be local for ready access.