Self-Storage vs Warehouse Storage
Quick Read
Comparing self-storage to warehouse storage can be complicated. In this article, we’ll break down the difference to show how self-storage lockers are great for people who don’t need a lot of different features. We also take a look at how warehouse storage is best for those who have specific needs.
Some of the pros and cons of self-storage that we talk about include:
- Checking your items on your time and storing for a lower cost
- A small selection of storage options and limited space
As for warehouse storage, some of the pros and cons we look at are:
- Larger space that can fit exactly whatever you need
- Higher cost and having to book an appointment to get to your items
The Differences and the Pros and Cons
Your possessions are important. That means you want to make the right call when deciding how to store them. While most people may not know the differences between warehouse storage and self-storage, those differences are still very important. We hope to provide you information to help you determine which storage system is best for you.
What is Self-Storage?
The best way to think of self-storage is to think of the lockers you had in school. There were certain items that you didn’t want to lug all the way home just to have them clutter your space. At the time these were simple things like books, binders, and maybe a jacket. Now, you either have bigger stuff or just more of it.
Self-storage lockers have been around for decades, giving people a place to put their personal items that they don’t want cluttering their home. Some businesses, normally those on the smaller side, use self-storage as well. This locker, found in a compound full of them, can be accessed anytime by the owner.
What is Warehouse Storage?
Warehouses, on the other hand, are more than a locker. While self-storage units are found in a compound full of lockers, warehouses are just one building. What you’re renting is a palette or wooden vault that holds all of your packed up items.
These buildings are designed mainly for commercial or industrial use, though it is common for people who are temporarily relocating to keep their personal items in a warehouse. When you rent out space in a warehouse you get more than just a place to put your items. There is always staff at warehouses meant to keep everything running smoothly, and the whole operation is fitted with new technology.
Why Go With One Over the Other?
It’s impossible to make a clear call between self-storage vs warehouse storage. Neither is inherently better than the other. Different situations have different needs. To help you make the call that best suits you, we’ll go over the pros and cons of each.
Self-Storage Pros:
- Check out your items on your time, without having to tell anyone.
- Good for small businesses that just have a couple of items to store
- Lower cost
Warehouse Pros:
- Completely climate-controlled. Whether you need heat or air conditioning, that can be arranged in a warehouse.
- A huge amount of warehouse space. High ceilings allows for large or oddly-shaped items to fit with ease.
- Unique storage options are available to fit any items.
- 24/7 Surveillance
Self-Storage Cons:
- A small selection of storage options.
- Only some units have options to be climate-controlled
- Limited space
Warehouse Cons:
- You’re required to give a heads up in order to see your items since they have to be retrieved for you.
- More flexibility means higher cost
Final Thoughts
Obviously, someone who is storing a couple of vases has different needs than a business with excess stock. Luckily there are many different options. Self-storage is a much simpler option at a cheaper cost, but if your storage needs aren’t being met, it’s worth it to get your more valuable items put in a warehouse.
