Once you’ve decided that you need additional storage, the first thing you’re probably going to do is look at and compare all your options for self storage in the Fife area.
You’ve probably already discovered that there’s more than one type of storage, and the main types you’ll come across are:
- Vertically stacked wooden boxes
- Metal containers
- Indoor self storage units
In order to help you decide which type of self storage is best for you, we’ve put together a comparison and the pros and cons of each main type of self storage.
Vertically stacked wooden boxes vs metal containers vs indoor storage units: which is best?
Vertically stacked wooden boxes
This is when your belongings are put into wooden boxes and are usually stacked one on top of each other.
Wooden boxes can be difficult to access and often require a forklift truck to gain access to your boxes. This is not ideal if you want to access your goods quickly and frequently at your convenience.
Your goods are often more prone to movement, especially when they are being moved around with a forklift truck. This can cause breakages and damage anything that’s fragile, so make sure to take your time and carefully package your goods prior to storage.
Additionally, because wooden boxes are often not locked they can be less secure. Always check with your elected supplier that the building is alarmed and has CCTV to ensure your belongings will be safe in storage.
This option can be cost effective, but our advice is to always shop around and compare.
Pros
- Cost effective and affordable
- Ideal for unbreakable items you don’t need access to for a while
Cons
- Inconvenient
- Movement
Metal containers
There are a number of key considerations with metal containers.
Because metal containers are outside, you are more likely to have an issue with condensation, basically water that can cause damage to your belongings.
The other constraint to consider is security, because these containers are outside, they can be less secure as they are out in the open and not in a locked in a secure building.
Make sure your supplier has CCTV and alarms fitted throughout the site to ensure your goods will be secure in storage.
This is a good option if you have a lot of bigger items or bulky goods, then you might want to consider this method of storage.
Pros
- Good for storing larger items and building materials
Cons
- Condensation can damage your goods
- Security can be an issue as these containers are outside
Indoor storage units
All our storage are individually locked units within a secure warehouse, we believe this is the best option for a number of reasons.
Firstly, our customers have their own individual units that are locked with a padlock.
This means they can easily access their units, and because their units are locked, no one has access to them.
We don’t go into your unit without your permission, and all our buildings are fitted with alarms and cameras, so you can rest assured your goods are safe.
Our self store facilities are regularly maintained, so issues with condensation and water damage are very rare.
All our depots have backdoor entrances allowing you to drive your car as close to your unit as possible. This makes accessing your unit just that little bit easier.
Once you decide to leave your storage unit you stop paying for it, it’s as simple as that. You should always check the terms and conditions of your storage agreement with your provider.
Pros
- Individual units are easy to access
- Secure building and padlocked units
- Bigger range of unit sizes to choose from
Cons
- Sometimes individual units are not the best option if you have a large amount of bulky items, unless you can get a large unit or several units to store your goods.
Good luck finding the right storage solution for you. If we can be of any assistance, please get in touch.
Happy storing!
Brian Munro
Operations Director
Fife Group
