Self-storage units have traditionally been used for personal storage, but in recent years, entrepreneurs have been taking advantage of the low overhead and flexible leasing to run a variety of businesses out of these spaces.
Though the typical storage unit is barely big enough to fit a few cars, you can also rent larger ones with office space, electricity, and even access to loading docks. But even if you’re only using indoor space, it’s nice to know that your inventory or products are being stored in a climate-controlled environment.
If people are willing to pay to store their excess belongings, why not consider using a self-storage unit as your own workplace?
There are many businesses that can thrive in self-storage units, and many smart entrepreneurs use them as an inexpensive (and often temporary) space to run their businesses.
You can also run a business from a self-storage unit, and there are plenty of options for entrepreneurs who have decided to go this route.If you’re looking for some inspiration for your next venture,
Here are few types of businesses that can be run from a self-storage unit:
1. Ecommerce Business
If you’re looking for an easy way to start your own business, opening an e-commerce store is an excellent place to begin. You can sell almost anything online, from crafts and baked goods to clothing and cosmetics. If you plan on selling physical items, you’ll need a warehouse where you can store them and that’s where self storage units come in handy.
If you want to expand your ecommerce business and the number of items you offer, use an extra storage unit to create an inventory overflow area. This will allow you to keep more goods on hand and ensure that your customers remain satisfied with your service.
You can even open an online storefront without ever holding any inventory. Print-on-demand services let shop owners design products like t-shirts, mugs, posters, and stickers that customers can personalize before they order. The print service handles all of the production, shipping, and billing, while all you have to do is collect commissions on your sales. This is a great option if you don’t have enough space in your home or apartment
2. Small Retail Store
When you think of businesses that use self-storage, the first image that probably comes to mind is a small retailer who needs extra space to store inventory. Or maybe it’s a homeowner downsizing from a larger house and needing somewhere to store their belongings.
3. Craft Business
Self-storage is ideal when you need room for large canvases or sculptures, not to mention art supplies such as paint etc.
If you’ve ever tried to run an arts and crafts business from home, you know how easy it is to be overrun with supplies, not to mention work in progress. A self-storage unit provides the space to store, sort and organize your inventory, as well as a place to safely package, ship and make deliveries. If you have heavy equipment or large items like pottery wheels or kilns, make sure to store them in a ground level unit so they can be easily transported in and out.
4. Repair Shop
Transform your self-storage unit into a repair shop. The car repair business is an industry that’s always in demand, so starting a mobile auto repair service is a great way to put your skills to good use. Most people don’t have the time or inclination to take their vehicle to the garage, so you can offer pick-up and drop-off services and charge accordingly. If you’re handy with tools, this could be a lucrative business opportunity.
5. Antique Store
Do you have an eye for antiques? You can turn your passion into a profit by buying, selling and repairing antique furniture. Look for pieces at local auctions, garage sales and estate sales and then repair them before reselling them online or at flea markets and antique shops.
6. Cloth Retail Store
Resale stores don’t need much space, but they do need plenty of foot traffic. Look for a location where customers will be able to find your store easily and without too much trouble.
The clothing resale industry has been growing steadily over the past 5 years, and it’s not showing any signs of slowing down. In fact, the resale market is expected to double by 2023. If you’re looking for a new way to take advantage of this growing market, or if you’re just looking for a new way to earn extra income, consider opening your own clothing resale store.
Reselling clothes can be a lucrative business opportunity, especially because setting up shop doesn’t require too much space or capital. That makes reselling clothes from a self-storage unit an ideal way to start your business without breaking the bank.
7. Export Business
Many people take advantage of goods available in other parts of the world but not offered domestically by selling them online. You can purchase these items overseas and have them shipped directly to your storage unit
8. Auction House
Auction houses are using self-storage units more and more, as a place to store their auction goods. The use of self-storage units allows auctioneers to move the goods from the previous home or business location to a secure, temperature-controlled facility that allows for viewing by customers. Some auction companies use self-storage facilities to store furniture and other items until they are ready to run an auction. Others use them as permanent storage locations, where customers can see items up close and make purchases before an auction takes place.
For both large and small auction houses, renting a self-storage unit may be the most convenient, cost-effective option available. It offers a secure, climate-controlled environment where art can be stored and displayed without the expense of renting a separate warehouse or gallery space.
9. Business Services
Rather than using storage units for merchandise storage, why not use them for service storage? For instance, if you offer bike repair or car detailing services, you might use the unit to hold all the parts, equipment and materials needed to complete the job.
10. Charities
Self-storage units can be used by charities for a variety of purposes, including storing gifts, charity documents, and fundraising equipment.
Conclusion
When you think of self-storage, you might picture someone bundling up their stuff and placing it in a large metal locker to be kept safe. This concept has been around for years and is still popular. However, self-storage units can also serve as work spaces for entrepreneurs and small business owners.
Many storage facilities have units available for rent that are heated or cooled, depending on the climate where you live. Some units even have separate offices within them. All these perks make them appealing spaces for entrepreneurs looking to cut costs on warehouse space or start a business from scratch.
Also Read:10 Storage Solutions When You Downsize Your Home
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