Note: As of July 2025, this article has been updated with current prices and information.
The world of self-storage offers a solution for almost any space-related problem, from decluttering your home to managing business stock. But with so many options available—indoor units, containers, climate control, and more—how do you know which is right for you?
Choosing the wrong type of unit can mean paying for features you don’t need or, worse, risking damage to your valuable belongings. This definitive guide will walk you through the main types of self-storage available in the UK, helping you make an informed decision and find the perfect space for your items.
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The First Big Decision: Indoor Units vs. Outdoor Containers
Your first choice will likely be between an indoor unit located within a large building or an outdoor drive-up unit, which is typically a shipping container.
| Feature | Indoor Self-Storage Units | Outdoor Container Storage |
| Location | Inside a secure, multi-storey building. | On the ground floor of an outdoor facility, often modified shipping containers. |
| Access | Via main reception, then through corridors using trolleys. | Drive your vehicle directly up to the unit door for easy loading/unloading. |
| Best For | Valuables, furniture, electronics, documents, and items needing protection from the elements. | Large furniture, garden equipment, tools, vehicles, and items where convenience is key. |
| Climate Protection | Excellent. Protected from rain, wind, and temperature swings. Climate control is an option. | Good, but more susceptible to condensation and extreme temperatures if not packed well. |
| Cost | Generally slightly more expensive due to building overheads. | Often the most cost-effective option for larger spaces. |
A Deeper Dive into Your Storage Options
Indoor Self-Storage Units
These are the most common type of units, housed inside a secure warehouse-like building. You access the main building and then use large trolleys to move your items to your private, individually locked room.
- Who is it for? Perfect for the majority of personal and business users, especially those storing items that could be affected by damp or extreme temperatures. It’s the go-to choice for movers, declutterers, and businesses storing archives.
- Key Advantage: Offers the best protection from the UK’s unpredictable weather.
Specialist Indoor Option: Climate-Controlled Storage
Within an indoor facility, you can often upgrade to a climate-controlled unit. These maintain a stable temperature and humidity level, which is vital for protecting sensitive items.
- Who needs it? Anyone storing valuable or delicate items for an extended period. Think antique wooden furniture, musical instruments, artwork, important paper archives, electronics, and wine collections.
- Key Advantage: Prevents damage from mould, mildew, rust, and warping caused by the damp UK climate.
Outdoor & Drive-Up Storage
These units offer incredible convenience, allowing you to drive your car or van right up to the door to load and unload.
Shipping Container Storage
These are robust, steel containers, identical to those used in global shipping. They are highly secure and weatherproof.
- Who is it for? Tradespeople storing tools and materials, individuals storing garden furniture or garage contents, and anyone needing frequent, easy access to bulky items.
- Key Advantage: Unbeatable convenience and often better value for money on a per-square-foot basis.
Specialist Storage for Specific Needs
Beyond the main types, many facilities offer tailored solutions.
Vehicle Storage
Need to store a car, classic car, motorbike, caravan, or boat? Specialist vehicle storage offers secure, dedicated spaces, either in covered units or secure outdoor compounds.
- Who is it for? Classic car enthusiasts, city dwellers with no parking, and people needing to store a vehicle while they travel.
- Key Advantage: Much more secure and often cheaper than long-term public parking.
Business & Commercial Storage
Businesses of all sizes use self-storage for a variety of needs. This can include secure units for:
- Stock & Inventory: For e-commerce businesses.
- Archiving: For documents that must be retained by law.
- Tools & Equipment: For tradespeople.
- Palletised Goods: Many facilities accept pallet deliveries.
Student Storage
Specifically designed for students, these are typically smaller units (10-25 sq ft) rented over the summer holidays to avoid the hassle of taking everything home.
- Who is it for? University students living away from home.
- Key Advantage: A cheap and easy solution to bridge the gap between academic years.
After Type Comes Size: Choosing the Right Dimensions
Once you’ve chosen the type of unit you need, you must select the right size. Here’s a quick UK guide:
- 25 sq ft: Like a large walk-in wardrobe. Perfect for a student’s belongings or the contents of a garden shed.
- 50 sq ft: The size of half a single garage. Can hold the contents of a 1-bedroom flat.
- 100 sq ft: The size of a standard single garage. Ideal for the contents of a 3-bedroom family home.
Don’t guess! The best way to save money is to rent the smallest unit you need. Use an online size estimator or ask the facility staff for advice.
Ready to Find Your Perfect Unit?
Whatever you need to store, there is a self-storage solution designed for you. By understanding the core differences between unit types, you can choose a space that offers the right blend of protection, convenience, and value.
Use our powerful search engine to compare prices and find every type of storage from trusted facilities across the UK.