SSA Member
We are an SSA Member
We are very proud to be a member of the SSA.
10 things to consider when deciding who to store your goods with:
1. Meets the European Standard – SSA UK Member
There is a European Standard for self storage that specifies minimum conditions for security and customer protection. All Self Storage Association UK (SSA UK) members must meet this standard to maintain their membership. So the best way to check your self storage provider meets the European Standard is to ensure they are a current SSA UK member.
2. Your unit, your key
Self storage is all about having a space away from home for you to store your goods. Only you should have access to your storage room.
3. Adequate ventilation
Your self storage unit will have adequate ventilation to prevent the build-up of odours, moisture and mould. The unit should not smell stuffy or stale and should have the ability for fresh air to circulate throughout the room.
4. Security
Your goods should be stored in a secure environment. As a minimum there should be CCTV on all entry and exit points as well as controlled access to the building. Many stores also have additional security such as individually alarmed units and number plate recognition.
5. A legally binding contract
Self storage in the UK is a self-regulated industry so you need to ensure there is a comprehensive contract between you and your self storage provider. This ensures you maintain your rights in terms of access to your goods, and in particular, what happens to your goods if you fail to pay your storage bill.
6. Insurance
If your goods are worth storing then they are worth insuring.
7. Access
Your storage site should be easy to access, particularly if you are going to be using it regularly. There should be appropriate loading and unloading areas.
8. Access hours
Different self storage businesses have different access hours. Not everyone provides 24/7 access to your goods and some will restrict access during the evening or on weekends. If you need late night access then make sure this is available before signing your contract.
9. Unit size
Self storage is all about flexibility. Most businesses will have a wide range of unit sizes, with different pricing. Ensure your provider has the right size unit for your needs and you are comparing like for like. Some providers will talk in cubic feet, rather than square feet. You need to consider the ceiling height when measuring in cubic feet. This is particularly important for units with high ceiling heights where you may not use this space. You also need to consider if you plan on taking goods out of your unit regularly as it may be tempting to take a smaller unit and pack it solid with goods. However, getting your goods out later will prove much more difficult.
10. The staff
The self storage site should be staffed, or at least have someone to meet you on site to explain the contract to you and walk you through the security systems. A permanently staffed store adds extra security with the site manager able to monitor the store.