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Self storage guide for students

When you are away at university, whether you are staying in halls or sharing a house with others, the end of term can present you with the challenge of what to do with all your stuff! It is likely that, even if you are staying put in your accommodation for the forthcoming term, you won’t want to leave your belongings unattended in a shared house. You probably also won’t want to take them back to your family home just to have to bring it all back again next term.

Self storage can be the answer to this age-old student dilemma. There are more options than ever available for self storage now with facilities conveniently location to most major student towns and cities. Some students even find that self storage can be useful year round to store larger items like sports equipment – especially if space is limited in halls or rented accommodation.

Is self storage right for you?

Before you start, decide whether self-storage is the right solution for you. If you are renting privately, perhaps check with your landlord whether you can leave you stuff in your room over the holidays. For many student houses, rent is not payable over the long summer holiday period and a new tenancy is required at the start of the new academic year. This means that you may need to move your belongings out, even if you are returning.

If you are not able to leave your stuff in situ over the holidays, the most sensible alternative is to If you cannot leave your stuff behind and don’t have any suitable options when it comes to safely storing your belongings, don’t feel that the only solution is to take everything home with you. There is a better way!

Storage options for students

Depending on how much you have to store, most self storage companies have storage options in a wide range of sizes – from around 10 sq ft of space (about the size of a telephone box or the boot of an estate car). Generally speaking, you will be able to gain access to your things whenever you want, although, it is a good idea to check access arrangements first.

Types of storage

As well as the more commonly seen storage options, which are basically a private, locked room, some storage facilities offer some other options which may be suitable – metal cage storage in a shared room is one alternative which we have seen. Another option to keep costs down may be to share storage space with friends or housemates.

Things to remember...

Be realistic about the amount of space you need – if you are not sure what you can fit in a space, have a look at our guide to storage space on our blog.
Make sure you understand when you are able to access the building and that it is likely to be a time when you can visit.
Use good packaging materials. It may seem like a good idea to skimp of packaging materials as they can seem expensive, however, well packed boxes are safer and more efficient to store and easier to transport and move. See our guide to packing for storage for more information.
Invest in a good quality padlock. Most facilities will offer to sell you one, although you may find it is cheaper to buy one from a DIY store.
Compare the cost of storage insurance – Again, most self storage facilities will offer to sell you insurance as part of the package – be cautious however and make sure that you understand the level of insurance you required (full replacement value) as well as the scope of cover being offered. See our blog 'I lost £180,000 in a self storage fire' for more on the perils of under insurance.

From our blog...

How to Choose the Perfect Self Storage Unit for Your Needs

13/09/2023

Are you in need of some extra space to store your belongings? Renting a self storage unit can be a great solution. However, before you make a decision, there are a few important things to consider. In this blog post, we will discuss the key factors that you should keep in mind when renting a self storage unit.

Location

The location of the self storage facility is an essential factor to consider. You want to choose a facility that is conveniently located near your home or workplace. This will make it easier for you to access your belongings whenever you need them. Additionally, if you plan on visiting the storage unit frequently, choosing a nearby location will save you time and money on transportation.

Size

Another crucial aspect to think about is the size of the storage unit. You want to select a unit that can accommodate all of your belongings comfortably. Take an inventory of the items you plan on storing and estimate how much space they will require. It's better to choose a slightly larger unit than what you initially think you need, as it allows room for any additional items in the future.

Security

The security measures implemented by the self storage facility should be one of your top priorities. Make sure that the facility has proper security features such as surveillance cameras, secure locks, and controlled access systems. Additionally, inquire about any additional security measures like onsite staff or alarm systems. Knowing that your belongings are safe and secure will give you peace of mind.

Climate Control

Depending on what items you plan on storing, climate control may be necessary. Certain items such as electronics, wooden furniture, or delicate artwork can be sensitive to extreme temperatures or humidity levels. If you have items that require specific climate conditions, look for a self storage facility that offers climate-controlled units.

Cost

Of course, cost is an important consideration when renting a self storage unit. Research and compare the prices of different storage facilities in your area. Remember to take into account any additional fees or charges that may apply, such as insurance or administration fees. While it's tempting to choose the cheapest option available, prioritise quality and security over price.

Accessibility

Consider the accessibility options provided by the self storage facility. Are they open during hours that are convenient for you? Do they offer 24/7 access? Make sure that the facility's operating hours align with your schedule so that you can easily access your belongings whenever needed.

Reviews and Recommendations

Lastly, don't forget to read reviews and seek recommendations from others who have rented self storage units before. Their experiences can provide valuable insights into the quality of service offered by different facilities. Look for online reviews on platforms like Google or Yelp, and ask friends, family, or colleagues if they have any recommendations. We also offer a useful UK Storage Facility directory so you can easily find storage providers near you.

By considering these factors before renting a self storage unit, you can ensure that you make an informed decision and find a facility that meets your needs. Take your time to research and visit different facilities to get a sense of their offerings before making a final choice. Happy storing!

Further information

The Store Insure blog has a huge range of information on storage insurance and self storage, as well as practical tips, guides and resources for anyone considering using self storage. Our Quick Guides offer important and useful advice in an easy-to-read, no-nonsense manner and covers topics such as storage insurance, lease agreements and storage types.

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