Farm Diversification: How To Start A Self Storage Business Today

Farm diversification can help farmers make additional income from spare land. One option is to start a shipping container self storage business, using secure containers to create storage options for local customers, tradespeople and businesses. 

With the right location, planning considerations, site layout, security and management systems self storage can become a long-term stream of income for farmers. This guide explains the steps involved, from market research to planning permission to help you start your self storage business.

According to the Self Storage Association UK (SSA UK) the self storage industry in the UK is worth over £1 billion and is growing at a rate of around 10% per year. Shipping container storage sites make up a significant part of this industry, with many companies offering this type of storage solution.

Here are some key considerations for starting a shipping container self storage business on your farm:

Step 1: Conduct Market Research

Before starting any business, it's important to conduct market research to determine the demand for your services. Research the local market to determine the demand for self storage, and identify any gaps that you can fill. Typically, if the majority of other self storage businesses within 12-15 miles of your location are on average 75% or below capacity, that could mean that the demand isn’t there for another self storage business.

Step 2: Choose the Right Location

The location of your farm is an important factor to consider when starting a self storage business. You want to choose a location that is easily accessible and visible from main roads, as this will help with your awareness in the local area and ultimately attract more customers.

Step 3: Planning Permission

The need for planning permission to set up a self storage business on your land in the UK will depend on several factors, including the location of the land, the size and design of the self storage facility, and local planning regulations. If you're thinking about setting up a self storage business on your land, it's important to check with your local planning authority to ensure that you are complying with all the relevant regulations.

Step 4: Site Preparation

Once you have obtained the necessary permissions and approvals, you will need to prepare the site for your shipping container self storage business. This may involve clearing the land, levelling the ground, installing drainage, and creating a foundation for the containers. It is important that the land the containers will be placed on is dead-level as uneven ground can create issues opening and closing the doors on the shipping containers. The ground will also need to be firm enough for large articulated vehicles to drive on it to deliver the shipping containers.

Step 5: Choose the Right Shipping Containers

The containers themselves are the heart of your self storage business. You'll need to decide on the number and size of containers you want to purchase or rent from your chosen supplier. You'll also need to make sure that the containers you choose are secure, durable, and in good condition. You may also want to consider having grafo-therm installed as an additional anti-condensation measure, although new (one trip) shipping containers rarely have condensation issues due to the increased number of vents fitted as standard. The most popular containers used on container self storage sites are 20ft New (One Trip) Shipping Containers which are typically available in blue or green.

Step 6: Plan Site Security

Security is a top priority for self storage customers, so you'll need to make sure that your site is safe and secure 24/7 so people's possessions are kept safe. This may involve installing cameras, alarms, and access controls, as well as ensuring that the containers themselves are secure. You are able purchase padlocks that are specifically designed to work with a shipping container ‘lock box’ which is a metal cover that the padlock fits under to secure the doors and is therefore tamper proof.

Step 7: Market Your Self Storage Business

Once your self storage business is up and running, you'll need to market your business to attract customers. You can do this through local advertising, signage, and online marketing. You may also want to consider offering incentives for customers who refer others to your business. Be sure to set up a Google My Business account so people can easily find you via Google Maps which more and more people do today when searching for local services.

Step 8: Set Up a Management System

Facility management software has become an essential tool for self storage businesses that want to improve their operations, provide better customer service, and increase revenue. With solutions that include automation, security integration and data management, facility management software can help self storage facilities to stay competitive and meet the demands of their customers. We recommend the remote management tool, Stora, if you are looking for software to manage your business for you.

Starting a shipping container self storage business on your farm can be a smart and profitable way to diversify your income streams.

By conducting market research, choosing a suitable location, obtaining the necessary permissions, procuring your shipping containers, setting pricing and policies, and promoting your business, you can start a successful self storage business that meets the growing demand for affordable and convenient storage solutions.

How BOX+ Helps You Start a Self Storage Business

Starting a self storage business involves more than simply purchasing shipping containers. Site design, finance, security, marketing and day-to-day management all play a role in creating a successful operation.

BOX+ has been developed to support new and growing self storage businesses by providing access to specialist industry services, helping operators launch and expand more efficiently.

Watch the video below to find out exactly what BOX+ can provide. 👇

What is Included with BOX+?

• Site planning and layout design
• Finance options to support growth
• Self storage management software
• Security and remote site management solutions
• Marketing support and branding guidance
• Container stock updates and delivery support
• Industry webinars and networking opportunities
• Discounts with selected self storage partners
  

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