Can You Work Out From a Storage Unit?

People work from all kinds of places. Some use cafes while others work from their spare room. But what about a storage unit? It might sound unusual, but in the past we have had customers ask "Can you work out from a storage unit?" and the answer is generally no.

The majority of storage units around the country are just for storing things. However, that doesn't mean that some companies don't let you work from them, as some units are built with work in mind. These often include lighting, power sockets and even Wi-Fi. If you find the right unit, it can be a great space for running a small business or doing admin work.

If you do want to work out of a storage unit, you may want to consider converting your own unit and placing it in the garden, but what reasons do people work out of a storage unit.

Why People Choose to Work from a Storage Unit

Storage units can save money as they are traditionally cheaper than renting an office or a shop, which are more expensive and usually for businesses that have grown out of their start-up stage.   For a new business, a storage unit is usually much cheaper.

Storage units also offer flexible contracts. You often pay month by month. This means you can leave whenever you want, and for a small business, this can sometimes be ideal as you aren't locked into long contracts.

Some storage units have 24-hour access, which is helpful if you need to work outside of normal hours. Many sites also have parking and CCTV, which is ideal if you need to load stock or store tools.

What you can and can’t do from a storage unit

Most storage companies do not allow you to live or sleep in a unit. They are not designed for that.

You usually cannot open your unit to the public like a shop either, and noisy or dangerous work is also not allowed. This includes anything with heavy machinery or the use of strong chemicals.

But some types of work are allowed. You may be able to pack and ship orders. You can use it to store tools for a trade job. Some people use their unit as a quiet place to do admin or paperwork.

Before you start using a unit as a workspace, always speak to the site manager as some companies offer business-friendly units. These are made for working and may come with power, light, and extra services.

Things to Keep in Mind when using a storage unit

If you plan to spend a lot of time in your unit, make sure it has good lighting and air flow. Some sites even offer heating and Wi-Fi.

Keep the space tidy and safe. Do not overload plug sockets or bring in anything that could be a fire risk.

You should also check your insurance. Most storage companies only cover stored items, not business use. It is a good idea to get extra cover if you are using the space to run a business.

is a storage unit right for my business?

A storage unit can be a smart choice if you need space for stock, tools, or quiet admin work. Online sellers often use them to pack and ship products. Tradespeople store gear and prepare for jobs. Some freelancers just want a space away from home to focus.

If you run any of the following businesses a storage unit can be a good choice:

• eBay or Amazon store.
• Online ecommerce stores.
• Furniture sellers.
• Plumbers, Builders or any other trades.

A storage unit is a great way to keep track of your inventory while keeping it safe.

Not every unit will suit your needs. Look for a company that offers business units or workspaces. These are designed for people who want more than just storage.

Questions to ask before renting a storage unit for work

As most storage units are made for storing items, your local storage facility may not be suitable to work from, so always check with your site manager first to see if what you want to store is allowed on their premises.

With that in mind, before signing up for storage, you should ask the following questions:

• Is the unit powered and ventilated?
• Can you install shelving or workbenches?
• Do they allow customers to visit your unit?
• Are there any restrictions on how long you can stay in the unit each day?
• Can you register your business to the storage site address?

These answers can help you decide if the unit is suitable for your business needs. Some companies have strict rules, while others are more flexible and may even offer designated business units with their own entrances and facilities.

Can You Register Your Business at a Storage Unit?

In some cases, yes. If the storage facility allows it, you might be able to register your business address to the unit. This is useful if you do not want to use your home address for deliveries or paperwork.

However, this depends on the facility and your type of business. Always check with the manager first. Some sites even offer mail handling services or parcel collection if you need them.

When a Garden Storage Unit Might Be Better

If your local storage facility doesn’t allow working from a unit, you might want to consider setting one up at home. Garden office pods and converted storage containers are becoming more popular.

You can buy or rent a converted unit and place it in your garden as a home office. This gives you a private workspace without paying for daily office rent. You also won’t have to travel far and can still enjoy the comfort of working near home. Just make sure you check with your local council if planning permission is needed.

Working from home? Use a storage unit

While you may not be able to work from a storage unit, you could use a storage unit to declutter that spare room and create your own home office.  Quite often, our spare rooms are filled with clutter that could be moved to make room for a more useful space.