BOX+
Starting a self storage business can be one of the most reliable and scalable ways to generate recurring income from land, but only when it’s set up correctly from day one.
Poor layouts, planning oversights and underestimating operational requirements can quickly erode profitability and slow growth.
BOX+ is Cleveland Containers’ end-to-end support service, created specifically for entrepreneurs, landowners and investors researching how to start a self storage business or actively setting up a self storage facility.
It’s designed for those who want expert guidance without costly mistakes, wasted space, unnecessary consultants or inefficient site layouts.
Rather than simply supplying containers, BOX+ brings together the experience, tools and trusted industry partners required to build a commercially strong and future-proof self storage site.
We combine real-world operational insight with practical delivery support, helping you make informed decisions at every stage of your journey. From early-stage feasibility studies and planning advice through to site layout optimisation, container supply, automation software, security systems, marketing strategy and finance introductions, BOX+ provides a clear, proven route from underused land to a fully operational self storage business. The result is a scalable, revenue-optimised facility designed to maximise return on investment and run with minimal day-to-day involvement.
What Is BOX+?
BOX+ is a start-to-finish self storage business support package built around one simple goal: help you launch a profitable, hands-free self storage site faster and more cost-effectively.
Unlike buying containers alone, BOX+ combines:
- Practical self storage expertise
- Introductions to the best Industry-approved suppliers
- Detailed site plans focused on maximum revenue generation
- Ongoing business support beyond container delivery
Whether you’re a farmer, landowner, developer or entrepreneur, BOX+ removes the guesswork from setting up a self storage business.
Self Storage Set Up Guide
Discover how to turn unused land into a profitable, hands-free self storage business with expert insights on planning, site setup, containers, security, and marketing.
(PDF, 5.34 MB)
Site Layout & Planning Support
Professional site layouts for planning, optimised for access, phased growth and a revenue-maximising unit mix, making every metre earn. Save thousands with us over hiring an architect.
Containers Built for Self Storage
New, secure containers in flexible sizes and configurations, built wind- and watertight with lockboxes as standard—helping you launch with the right unit mix.
Management Software & Automation
Online bookings, payments, invoicing and access control in one system - BOX+ helps you run a modern site with minimal day-to-day involvement.
Security & Access Control
CCTV, secure perimeters and controlled access options designed to build trust, protect assets and support stronger occupancy and pricing.
Marketing & Lead Generation Support
From local search and websites to PPC partners, BOX+ helps customers find, trust and book your site from day one.
75% AVERAGE OCCUPANCY
Consistently high utilisation across the UK reflects structural demand and supports predictable, recurring monthly revenue.
£1.2BN ANNUAL TURNOVER
A substantial, nationwide sector that continues to expand, backed by housing mobility, SME growth and lifestyle change.
£30 REVENUE PER SQUARE FOOT
Delivers exceptional income efficiency, allowing well-designed sites to maximise returns from relatively small footprints.
1,135 EXTERNAL STORAGE SITES
Container-based storage has become a proven, scalable model — particularly effective in rural and edge-of-town locations.
2,900+ TOTAL UK STORAGE SITES
A mature yet still under-supplied market compared to the US, indicating strong long-term expansion potential.
90% ONLINE BOOKINGS
A digitally evolved industry where automation, integrated access and online payments drive efficiency and scalability.
Planning-Ready Site Layouts — Without Architect Costs
Planning is often the biggest blocker to launching a self storage site, so BOX+ provides planning-ready, graded layout drawings without the cost of an architect.
We help navigate change-of-use, rural planning challenges and key risks while designing layouts that maximise lettable area, improve approval confidence and reduce redesigns.
| Service | Detailed Site Plans (New Sites or Expansions) |
| Price | £595 +VAT (Includes Two Revisions) |
| Additional Revisions | £50 +VAT (Per Revision) |
Finance Your Entire Self Storage Setup
Setting up or expanding a self-storage site doesn’t have to drain your cash reserves.
Through our partnership with Approved Business Finance, BOX+ enables you to finance your entire self storage setup—not just the containers. Flexible funding can cover containers, installation, security, infrastructure and phased site expansion, all wrapped into predictable monthly payments with terms tailored to your business goals.
Find Out More.webp)
Fast, Flexible Funding to Accelerate Your Growth
The application process is quick, simple and obligation-free, with no impact on your credit score, so you can explore your options with confidence.
Decisions are fast and paperwork is minimal, helping you move forward without unnecessary delays. Whether you’re launching a new self-storage site, expanding an existing facility, or investing in infrastructure and security, finance allows you to preserve working capital while accelerating growth. With predictable monthly payments aligned to your cash flow, you can scale at the pace your occupancy demands — without slowing momentum or compromising your plans.
apply for financeBOX+ Case Studies
Every self storage site is different, but the fundamentals of success remain the same.
These real-world examples show how landowners and operators have used BOX+ to turn underutilised land into profitable, scalable self storage businesses. From early planning and layout design to launch and growth, each case study highlights what’s possible with the right support in place.
Store Mill Self Storage
Learn how Store Mill Self Storage transformed unused land into a thriving revenue stream with farm diversification and expert support from BOX+
Uddingston Self Storage
Established in 2018, Uddingston Self Storage has grown from a small family start-up into a thriving 160-container site supplied by Cleveland Containers.
iBOXED Self Storage
Co-founders Ian and Noor utilised our BOX+ service to diversify and begin their new venture into self storage.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT BOX+
BOX+ is our complete start-to-finish support service designed to help you plan, launch, and grow a profitable container self storage site.
From professional site layouts and planning guidance to management software, marketing support, and finance options, BOX+ gives you everything you need to build a hands-free storage business. Speak to our team to discuss your land, site plans, and next steps.
Turn your land into a self storage business
Planning, layouts, containers, finance and launch support with BOX+.
Self Storage Resources
Learn directly from self storage operators and industry specialists who’ve been there and done it.
From our Chatterbox podcast to practical blogs and guest podcast features, these resources share real-world insight to help you start, refine or scale a successful self storage business with confidence.
Chatterbox Podcast
YouTube: All Epsiodes
Spotify: All Episodes
Blogs
How Much Does It Really Cost To Start A Self Storage Business?
Guest Podcasts
FAQ
BOX+ is a start-to-finish self storage support service designed to help landowners, farmers, and entrepreneurs plan, launch, and grow a profitable container self storage site.
It combines:
- Site layout & planning support
- Security guidance
- Management software integration
- Marketing support
- Finance options
- Lead generation guidance
- Priority service
It’s everything you need to turn land into a hands-free storage business.
Yes.
BOX+ is completely free to access.
The only paid element is if you require a professional planning-level site layout drawing, which costs:
- £495 + VAT
- Includes two revisions
- Additional revisions are £50 + VAT per revision
There are no subscription fees or hidden costs to join BOX+.
Before investing in containers, it’s essential to understand:
- How many units your land can hold
- Vehicle turning circles and access routes
- Expansion potential
- Revenue optimisation
- Planning considerations
Our planning-level site plan gives you a commercially optimised layout that helps you:
- Maximise unit density
- Improve customer flow
- Increase long-term profitability
- Strengthen planning applications
Hiring an architect for a similar drawing can typically cost £2,000+, and in many cases significantly more.
With BOX+:
- You pay £495 + VAT
- You receive two revisions
- You get a layout designed specifically for self storage profitability
That represents a potential saving of thousands of pounds.
But the biggest difference isn’t just cost — it’s expertise.
Once you place your container order, you unlock your BOX+ onboarding benefits.
This includes:
- A personalised BOX+ call with a self storage specialist
- Introduction to trusted industry suppliers
- Management software guidance
- Security system support
- Website and booking integration
- Marketing and lead generation advice
We help you launch smoothly and start taking bookings confidently.
Yes.
We can connect you with our trusted planning partner, specialists in securing planning permission for self storage sites with a proven track record of successful approvals.
They provide guidance around:
- Change of use
- Flood risk considerations
- Access and traffic
- Biodiversity net gain
- Site viability
Yes.
With the right setup, many operators:
- Use automated booking systems
- Integrate remote gate access
- Use monitored CCTV
- Run automated billing
- Manage remotely
BOX+ helps you build a model that works around your existing business or lifestyle.