Self-Storage vs Warehouse: Which Is Better for Your Business?


Yogesh a small business owner storing his supplies in multiple units at Rent a Space

Running a small business and have no clue what to do with your inventory? Or are you moving interstate and are stressing about how much furniture you need to move? You might be wondering what type of storage will help you the most. 

This article is your best resource to learn about the differences between warehouse storage and self-storage, highlight their pros and cons, and show you how Rent a Space’s business storage solutions can be the perfect middle ground. You can expect space, security, and control without the excessive costs or long-term commitments. 

Self Storage vs Warehouse: What Do You Keep in Mind? 

 

warehouse

 

A storage space is a secure, private storeroom of sorts you can lock up and rent for as long as you want to.  

Let's look at the main differences between both storage options and where business storage fits in:

Space constraints 

Warehouse storage facilities are big, while self-storage units are smaller and easier to manage yourself. 

Self-storage is more beneficial for personal and small business needs, like archived files, excess stock, or equipment you do not need every day. Warehouse storage is built for scale. It suits retailers, importers, exporters, or manufacturers who move large volumes of stock. 

If you’re a substantial company, warehouse storage might be the better option. For personal use or small businesses, a self-storage unit or business storage unit is often all you need. 

Rent a Space offers both smaller units and mini warehouse-style spaces, giving your business extra flexibility without paying warehouse-level prices. 

Store different things 

How might you use self-storage? 

  • Store personal items like family heirlooms or clothing you don't wear for the season 
  • Put away old records or documents like legal forms  
  • Equipment or tools you do not use as often as you'd like 
  • Camping or skiing equipment in the off-season to free up space at home 
  •  Stock inventory with the flexibility to upsize or downsize storage units depending on supply 
  • International students moving between semesters with limited space

As for warehouse storage, it is a larger facility built for big retailers, manufacturers, importers, exporters and more. It has: 

  • Pallet racking 
  • Mobile shelving 
  • Multi-tier racking 
  • Static shelving 
  • Wire partitions 
  • Trolleys 

Store heavy industrial equipment and some perishables. If that sounds too large-scale for your needs, Rent a Space’s business storage sits comfortably in between: more space than standard self-storage, but without the full operational costs of a warehouse.  

Scalability 

Commercial storage helps you scale space up or down depending on business supply, demand, and inventory. Focus on your business while the warehouse company manages your inventory. 

Self-storage facilities are completely managed by you and can be filled up fast but will not work for you if your end game is to scale up. 

With Rent a Space, you can scale your storage easily, whether you are starting small or growing fast. Business storage units are flexible enough to expand with you, without long-term contracts. 

Security 

Storage facilities (warehouse or self-storage) have 24/7 security measures so stored items and inventory are protected. 

Rent a Space have: 

  • 24/7 CCTV  
  • Individually alarmed units 
  • 365-day access to your goods 
  • Personalised security codes for easy entry 
  • The RAS App to securely store your access code, make payments, add users for access, navigate the facility and access invoice history 

Your bulky furniture, household goods, or inventory stay protected year-round. 

The costs 

Self-storage units are more cost effective since they are self-managed and are intended to be more affordable for individuals. 

Warehouse spaces are more expensive due to size, staffing, and inventory management services, but they are necessary for high-volume operations. 

If you’re looking for something in between, Rent a Space offers mini warehouse or oversized business storage units perfect for: 

  • Seasonal stock 
  • Office equipment 
  • Important documents 
  • Trade tools 

You’ll also enjoy access to air-conditioned meeting rooms, complete with large-screen TVs, a fridge, coffee maker and complimentary tea, coffee, and water, so you can manage your business onsite. 

So, what should you decide on? 

If your business involves moving significant volumes of stock or you need warehouse-level space, a warehouse might be best. 

But if you’re a small to medium business owner, self-storage or business storage is more cost-effective and flexible. Rent a Space makes moving simple with: 

  • A free storage move-in service (a complimentary truck and professional driver) which minimises the stress of moving into self-storage. Valued at over $400 in savings! This complimentary storage move-in service is available to customers moving into a storage unit, conditions apply.
     
  • A box shop stocked with everything you'll need when packing belongings for moving or storing. This includes premium packing supplies, speciality boxes (such as for TVs), sustainable options, and affordable pricing. 

A customer unloading the Rent a Space truck to move his supplies in his new unit

Read: Award-Winning Service and Facilities Make Rent a Space Your Best Choice 

Need Trusted Self Storage in Sydney? Get a Quote! 

 

Whether you need to store business stock, household items, or archived files, there is storage solutions for everyone, from personal storage to mobile storage, car storage and a range of storage unit sizes. 

For climate-controlled storage, adequate storage capacity, and security features you can count on, Rent a Space has your best storage interests in mind. Award-winning and 100% Aussie owned, we have been in the industry for over 40 years. 

Contact us today for an instant quote on self storage near Chatswood, Oran Park, Padstow, Moore Park, Burwood or Miranda! 

FAQs for Self Storage in Sydney 

 

How long is a storage contract? 

At Rent a Space Self Storage, you’re never tied down to long-term contracts. Stay for as little as one month, then continue a convenient month-to-month basis. You can move out anytime with just 14 days’ notice.  

We also offer great prepayment discounts for longer stays. Speak with your local store manager or call (02) 8758 0000 for more details.  

How much does a self-storage unit cost per month? 

The cost of a Rent a Space Self Storage unit depends on the location and size of the space you choose. Facilities located closer to the Sydney CBD attract a higher rate, while those in the outer Sydney areas are typically more affordable. 

Units with driveway access are especially popular with businesses thanks to their convenience, so they tend to be priced at a premium. Ground floor units are the next most sought-after option, followed by upper-level spaces, which usually offer the best value. 

Can I change my current storage unit to a smaller or larger space? 

Yes, at Rent a Space you can easily transfer to a different storage unit at any time, subject to availability. Any prepaid rent will simply be applied to your new space, making the move seamless and hassle-free. 

Refer a friend and you will both save $50 when your friend brings it in with them during move-in! 

 

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