When you start looking at self-storage, you’ll often see prices shown as “per week.” This simple number is only the starting point. It reflects the basic rent for seven days, but it often leaves out other charges. To avoid surprises, you need to know what the weekly rate really covers and what extra costs may apply. This guide explains how weekly pricing works and how to work out the real cost of keeping your items in storage.
What Does Price Per Week Mean for Storage Costs?
The “price per week” is the base rent for a unit over seven days. It’s the headline figure used to make rates easy to read and compare. But the weekly rate is only part of the story, and you’ll need to look beyond it to see your full spend.
For example, a 20 sq ft unit might be £10-£35 per week, while a 50 sq ft unit in London could be around £50 per week. These figures are useful for quick checks, but they don’t cover everything you will pay.
Why Do Storage Providers Quote Per Week?
Many providers prefer weekly pricing because it:
- Breaks the cost into smaller, easier-to-budget amounts, helpful for short stays
- Works well for flexible stays that don’t match calendar months
- Makes prices look lower than a single monthly figure, which helps with marketing
- Creates a common format for simple comparisons
Comparing Weekly, Monthly, and Daily Rates
You’ll also see monthly or daily prices. Comparing them can be confusing. A 20 sq ft unit might be £10-£35 per week, but £50-£75 per month with another provider. To compare:
- Monthly to weekly: divide by 4.33 (average weeks per month)
- Weekly to monthly: multiply by 4 (quick estimate) or 4.33 (closer estimate)
Example conversion:
| Quoted Rate | How to Compare | Approx Result |
|---|---|---|
| £30 per week | Weekly to monthly (x 4.33) | £130 per month |
| £70 per month | Monthly to weekly (/ 4.33) | £16 per week |
Watch out for deals that apply only to set periods, which can make like-for-like comparison harder.
Common Misconceptions about Storage Pricing
The biggest mistake is thinking the weekly price is the full price. Extra costs can lift the total a lot. Another myth is that all facilities offer the same service at similar weekly rates. In reality, security, access hours, and features can vary a lot, and the true cost reflects this. Many people also guess the wrong unit size, which leads to overpaying or needing to upgrade mid-stay.
Which Factors Change the Price Per Week for Storage?
Weekly rates are based on several inputs. Knowing these helps you choose good value for your needs.
Unit Size and Dimensions
Bigger units cost more each week. Sizes range from small lockers (1-3m²) for a few boxes, to medium units (4-6m²) for furniture or stock, up to large units (7-12m²) for full homes or vehicles. While bigger units cost more overall, the price per square foot or metre can be lower. Be clear about what you need so you don’t pay for space you won’t use.
Location of Facility
Where the site is makes a big difference. City centre locations, especially in London, usually charge more due to higher demand and building costs. London prices have been rising and are the highest in the UK. A 50 sq ft unit might be £50 per week in London but around £28 per week in the North of England. Sites outside busy areas are cheaper. If you don’t need frequent visits, choosing a site farther out can save money, but include travel costs in your plan.
Length of Rental Agreement
How long you book affects the rate. Short stays are flexible, while longer commitments often come with discounts. Many providers give lower rates for six months or more. For example, some offer “50% off for up to 12 weeks” for new customers. If you expect a long stay, ask about long-term rates or paying upfront, which can lead to good savings.
Level of Security and Access
Higher security usually means a higher price. Features like 24/7 CCTV, alarms, access control gates, individual unit alarms, and on-site staff add to costs. You may pay more, but you get added protection, which matters for valuable items. Sites with 24/7 access also tend to be priced higher than those with fixed hours.
Climate Control and Other Features
Climate-controlled units help protect items like antiques, electronics, documents, and instruments from heat, cold, damp, and mould. These units cost more than standard units. Other features that may affect price include covered loading bays, parking, trolleys, lifts, and small extras like hot drinks or vending machines, though these usually add only a little to costs.
What Is Included in the Quoted Weekly Price?
The weekly price usually covers the rent for the unit space. What’s included varies by provider, so check exactly what you get for your money.
Standard Inclusions: Access, Security, and Maintenance
Most weekly rates include access during opening hours, a personal code for entry, and basic site security like 24-hour CCTV. You’ll usually be able to use on-site trolleys and loading areas. Cleaning and building upkeep are generally part of the base price too.
What Extras Might Add Costs?
Many extra items and services sit outside the weekly rent:
- Insurance (often required by the site)
- Padlock (you may need to buy one)
- Packing materials (boxes, bubble wrap, tape, covers)
- Transport (van hire or removals)
- Out-of-hours access fees (if the site charges for this)
- Admin or setup fees (for account setup or changes)
Each of these can lift the total cost well above the headline weekly rate.
Long-Term vs Short-Term Storage Inclusions
Short stays often include welcome deals like “50% off for 8-12 weeks.” These cut the early bills, but the price jumps to the standard rate after the deal ends. Long-term bookings may come with a lower weekly rate or prepay discounts, but fewer free extras. Some long stays include small perks like reduced contents cover, but this is not common. Always confirm what’s included for the time period you choose.
What Other Costs Come On Top of the Weekly Price?
On top of the weekly rent, several add-ons can change your total spend. Knowing these early helps you set a clear budget.
Insurance Requirements and Costs
Most UK storage sites require insurance for your stored items. Prices are based on the replacement value of what you store. For example, cover might start around £13.00 per month for £2,000 of protection. Some providers sell their own cover, and some accept external policies if you can prove you have enough cover. State the true value of your items; if you under-value them, any claim payout could fall short. Insurance rarely comes with the base rent.
Deposits, Administration, and Setup Fees
Some sites still ask for a deposit (often about half a month’s rent), though many now take the first four weeks upfront instead. Watch for one-off admin or setup fees for paperwork, account activation, or switching unit sizes later. Ask for a full list of upfront and ongoing costs before you agree to anything.
Locks, Packaging, and Moving Services
You will need a padlock for your unit. Some sites sell them (e.g., around £13.99), or you can bring your own. Packing materials like sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, and tape add to the bill. Moving costs can be a big part of the total: removals can range from £400-£1,700 depending on home size and location, while self-drive vans are often £70-£120 per day. Some providers offer deals on van hire, such as £49 for a day for moves into units of 30 sq ft and up, but that is still an extra cost.
Access Fees and Out-of-Hours Charges
Not all facilities have 24/7 access, and some charge a premium for it. If access hours are limited, out-of-hours visits may carry a fee. Ask for the access policy and any related charges, especially if you expect irregular visits. If you use a collection service rather than visiting the unit yourself, ask about fees for retrieval and delivery.
How Can You Accurately Compare Storage Quotes?
Comparing quotes can be tricky because of different pricing models, short-term deals, and mixed inclusions. A clear, step-by-step approach helps you find the best option.
Requesting Transparent Quotes
Ask for clear, all-in quotes. Don’t stop at the weekly price. Request a full breakdown including insurance, deposits or upfront payments, admin fees, and lock costs. Good providers can give you an itemised quote with no hidden extras. Many have online tools that price your unit quickly; still, follow up to confirm everything that applies to you.
Making Like-for-Like Comparisons
Once you have several quotes, check they match on the key points:
- Unit Size: Are sizes identical? Look at height and volume, not just floor area.
- Location: Are sites in similar areas? A cheaper unit far away might cost more in travel time and fuel.
- Security: Do they offer the same CCTV, alarms, and staff presence?
- Access: Are access hours the same? 24/7 access can be a big convenience.
- Inclusions: Are insurance and locks included, or extra?
- Terms and Conditions: Check minimum stay, notice to leave, and any fees for early exit or late payment.
If one quote is monthly and another is weekly, convert both to the same unit (e.g., weekly) to compare fairly.
Comparing Offers and Promotional Discounts
Deals like “50% off for the first two months” are common and can cut early costs. But always check what happens after the deal ends. A “free month” might look great, but if the standard rate after that is much higher, it may not be the best choice over the full period you plan to store. Work out the total price for your whole stay. Also ask about discounts for NHS staff, military, teachers, or emergency services if that applies to you.
What Tips Help Reduce Your True Weekly Storage Cost?
Once you understand storage pricing, use these ideas to bring your real weekly spend down without losing the service you need.
Choosing the Right Unit Size for Your Needs
Picking the right size is the biggest money saver. Paying for empty space wastes cash. Make a list of what you’ll store. Measure bigger items and break down furniture if you can. Plan how items will stack. Many providers can suggest a size from your list. Aim for the smallest unit that fits your items well. For example, a 75 sq ft unit can often hold a one or two-bedroom flat, including major furniture and around 40 boxes.
Making Use of Long-Term Deals or Prepayment Discounts
If you expect a long stay, ask about lower rates for longer commitments or for paying upfront. Twelve months paid in advance can be cheaper over the year than paying month by month, even with short-term offers at the start. Compare the full cost over the period you plan to store.
Selecting Less Expensive Locations if Possible
If you don’t need to visit often, look at sites outside city centres or in smaller towns. The weekly rate can be much lower. Add travel or van costs to your plan to check that the saving is still worth it.
Packing Efficiently and Stacking to Maximise Value
Good packing helps you fit more into a smaller space. Take apart beds, tables, and shelves. Use strong, same-size boxes so they stack well, and fill them fully. Stack heavier items at the bottom and keep lighter or often-used items on top. Using space well may let you choose a smaller, cheaper unit.
Key Points to Remember When Looking at Price Per Week for Storage
The weekly price is the starting point, not the full cost. Your total bill depends on unit size, location, length of stay, security, access, and any extras you add.
Ask for clear, itemised quotes. Check unit size, location, security, access hours, and what’s included before you compare prices. A lower weekly rate may come with trade-offs that don’t suit your needs.
Pick a rental length that fits your plans. Long stays often benefit from prepay or term discounts, while short stays can take advantage of intro offers-but watch for the date the standard rate begins.
Your choices affect what you pay. Choose the right size, pack well, and pick a location that matches your access needs. With these steps, you can find a fair price and store your items safely without blowing your budget.