Self storage units aren’t just for individuals and families. They can be a great asset to businesses that have space issues, need flexibility for stock, and require better security, protection, and proper storing conditions to protect their goods. Too often businesses aren’t using their space efficiently. They’re either cramped with overstock and have difficulty operating day-to-day; or, they’re renting too large a space, which may help during busier seasons, but is unused and costing too much the rest of the year.Traditional retail stores, offices, and small, online businesses are some of the groups who benefit from storing their office supplies, raw materials, customer orders, machinery, overstock, and other items in storage.
Some specific commercial uses for storage include:
- Keeping overstock securely packed away until needed
- During renovations or to accommodate a move
- Allowing for more space in-store for holiday displays
- Storing off-season goods and materials
- Keeping merchandise for an upcoming trade show separate
- Storing signage and other marketing materials
- Putting away equipment, tools, and other materials that aren’t needed regularly
- Storing old files and drives needed for tax purposes
- Making space to perform a major clean-up or redesign
You’ll want to find local storage units that have long-term and short-term options, as well as a variety of unit sizes, to suit changing circumstances. Be sure the facility is clean, well-lit, has several security features in-place, is climate-controlled, has packing materials, offers contents insurance, and has a helpful staff who can help you with choosing the right storage options and who will keep your goods safe. All of these are necessary to keep your stock, files, and materials in proper condition and safe from theft.
It’s also important to pack items properly to be sure they stay in good condition, especially if they will be there for several months or longer. Use proper packaging for electronics, their original housing is ideal for a snug fit. Use plenty of bubble wrap, packing paper, peanuts, or other cushioning to protect during transit, shifting over time, or any accidental drops or falls. Clearly label your items for easy retrieval later—remember to put the sizes or any specific identifiers on as well, in case there is stock with the same name but with different specs. For inventory, a count of remaining items in each box is also helpful. Stack heavy, non-fragile items on the bottom with proper labels identifying them as such. Don’t store hazardous materials, flammable goods, explosive, animals, or perishable food. This can be dangerous and reputable storage facilities won’t allow it.
A climate-controlled facility is important if you have temperature- and moisture-sensitive items like electronics, cosmetics, clothing, or anything that can rust. Facilities with back-up generators are important so the controls won’t fail, and so all electronic security features stay online and operating.
It’s wise to pay a visit to the facility before you arrange for a unit. This will give you a chance to check out security features, meet the staff, and see the size and condition of your unit. Find a company that has excellent reviews. For those in North York or the Greater Toronto Area, Abacus Self Storage in Richmond Hill is a 2018 Consumer Choice Award recipient. They have many customer testimonials that speak highly of the staff and the super clean condition of their secure units.
Allow your small business to run more smoothly and efficiently with the help of a secure storage unit that features flexible options and plans.