How Much Does Self Storage Cost in the UK?
Self storage can be extremely useful when you’re moving house, particularly if your moving dates don’t line up, you’re downsizing or you simply need somewhere to keep furniture and boxes temporarily.
But storage prices can vary considerably depending on where you live, how much space you need and how long you need it for. This guide explains how UK self storage pricing works, typical costs and how to avoid paying for more space than you actually need.
Move Without Mayhem Tip: Don’t automatically choose a larger storage unit “just in case”. Work out roughly how much you’re storing first — moving from one unit size to another can make a significant difference to the total cost.
Self Storage Costs at a Glance
What Is the Average Cost of Self Storage in the UK?
There isn’t one standard UK self storage price. Storage companies generally price units according to their size, location, local demand and availability.
The Self Storage Association UK’s latest industry figures report average annual revenue of around £27.40 per square foot across the UK self storage industry. This is a useful market benchmark rather than a quote for an individual storage unit.
In practice, a small unit outside London can cost considerably less than a similarly sized unit in the capital or another high-demand location. The best way to establish your actual cost is therefore to compare quotes for the size and location you need.
If storage is part of your house move, remember to include it in your wider budget. Our cost of moving house UK guide covers other expenses you may need to allow for.
Compare Storage Prices
Check Safestore Prices for Your Area
Because self storage prices depend heavily on your location, unit size and how long you need the space, getting a quote for your own requirements is more useful than relying on a national average. Safestore has storage locations across the UK and lets you check available unit sizes and current prices for your area.
Check Safestore Storage Prices →Affiliate link: if you use this link, Move Without Mayhem may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
What Size Storage Unit Do I Need?
Storage units are commonly measured in square feet. It can be difficult to visualise what that means, so these examples give you a useful starting point when comparing quotes.
| Unit Size | Approximate Size | Could Suit |
|---|---|---|
| 25 sq ft | Small garden shed | Contents of a studio flat |
| 35 sq ft | Average garden shed | Contents of a 1-bedroom flat |
| 50 sq ft | Around half a single garage | Large 1-bedroom flat |
| 75 sq ft | Around a Luton van | Contents of a 2-bedroom home |
| 100 sq ft | Around a single garage | Contents of a 2–3 bedroom home |
| 150 sq ft | Around 1.5 single garages | Large 3-bedroom home |
| 200 sq ft | Around a double garage | Contents of a 4-bedroom home |
These are approximate size guides only. How much fits will depend on the size, shape and way your belongings are packed and stacked.
Packing efficiently can help you make better use of the space available. Our moving house packing checklist explains how to organise your belongings before moving or placing them into storage.
The Biggest Money-Saver? Choosing the Right Size
Storage is normally charged according to the amount of space you use, so accurately estimating the unit size you need can save money every week or month you’re storing. Ask the storage company for help choosing a unit if you’re unsure — and tell them exactly what you plan to store.
Does Location Affect Self Storage Prices?
Yes. Location can make a substantial difference to the price of storage. London is generally more expensive, while storage in some areas of the Midlands, North of England, Wales and Scotland can be considerably cheaper.
For example, published industry-based regional figures have previously put a 50 sq ft unit at around £162 per month in London, compared with roughly £85 per month in the West Midlands. Prices change over time and between individual stores, but the comparison shows why location matters.
Worth checking: If you’re storing belongings rather than accessing them regularly, compare facilities slightly further away from expensive town or city centres. A short additional drive could potentially reduce your storage bill.
What Affects the Price of Self Storage?
Unit Size
The amount of space you need is one of the biggest factors affecting your storage bill.
Location
Storage in London and other expensive locations can cost significantly more than elsewhere.
Length of Stay
Introductory offers can make the first few weeks cheaper, so check what you’ll pay after any promotion ends.
Availability
Prices can vary according to demand and how many units of a particular size are available.
Access
Opening hours, drive-up access and the position of the unit can vary between facilities.
Special Offers
Introductory discounts can reduce the initial cost, but always compare the ongoing rate too.
Extra Self Storage Costs to Check
When comparing storage quotes, don’t look only at the headline weekly or monthly rate. Ask what else you’ll need to pay.
☑ Contents cover or insurance
☑ Padlock or security lock
☑ Deposit, if applicable
☑ Administration charges, if applicable
☑ Packing materials
☑ Collection or delivery charges
☑ Charges for changing unit size
☑ Notice periods
☑ The price after any introductory offer ends
If you need additional packing supplies, our cheap moving boxes UK guide covers options for keeping those costs down.
Using Self Storage When Moving House
Storage can solve several common moving-house problems. You don’t necessarily need to store your entire home — even a relatively small unit can give you useful breathing space.
☑ You’re moving out before your new home is ready
☑ You’re downsizing and haven’t decided what to keep
☑ You want to declutter before selling your home
☑ You’re renovating your new property
☑ You need somewhere temporary for large furniture
☑ Your removal company can’t deliver everything immediately
☑ You’re moving in stages rather than all at once
For more advice on deciding when storage makes sense and planning the practical arrangements, read our moving house storage guide.
How Long Can You Rent a Storage Unit For?
Self storage is generally designed to be flexible, with both short-term and longer-term options available. Minimum rental periods, payment schedules and notice requirements vary between providers, so check the terms before booking — particularly if you only expect to need storage for a few weeks during your move.
How to Save Money on Self Storage
2. Compare several facilities. Storage prices can vary significantly even within the same area.
3. Compare the total cost. Include VAT, contents cover and other compulsory charges rather than comparing headline prices alone.
4. Choose the smallest suitable unit. Efficient packing and stacking can reduce the amount of floor space you need.
5. Look beyond the nearest facility. If you don’t need regular access, a slightly longer drive may give you cheaper options.
6. Check introductory offers carefully. Work out what you’ll pay both during and after the promotional period.
7. Review your unit regularly. If you’ve removed some belongings, ask whether moving to a smaller unit would save money.
Storage or a Bigger Removal Vehicle?
If you’re only considering storage because you’re worried everything won’t fit on moving day, compare the total cost with your removal company first. A larger vehicle or different removal package could sometimes make more sense than paying for transport to storage and then moving everything again later.
See Typical UK Removal Costs →Self Storage Cost FAQs
How much is self storage per month in the UK?
There isn’t a single UK monthly price because costs depend heavily on unit size, location, demand and availability. Get quotes for the exact unit size and area you need rather than relying on a national average.
Is self storage more expensive in London?
Generally, yes. Published regional storage figures show London can be considerably more expensive than many other parts of the UK.
What size storage unit do I need for a 3-bedroom house?
Around 100–150 sq ft can be a useful starting point depending on how much furniture and other belongings you have. Ask the storage provider to confirm the most appropriate size before booking.
Is storage charged weekly or monthly?
This varies between storage providers. Some advertise weekly prices while others show monthly or four-weekly costs, so check the billing period carefully when comparing quotes.
Does self storage include insurance?
Don’t assume that it does. Storage providers may require suitable contents cover, which may be offered separately. Check what protection is required and whether its cost is included in your quote.
More Help Planning Your Move
Work through the rest of your move with our practical UK guides:
→ Complete UK Moving House Checklist
→ Moving House Storage Guide
→ Cost of Moving House UK
→ How Much Do Removal Companies Cost?
→ Moving House Packing Checklist
→ Who to Notify When Moving House
→ Moving House Utilities Checklist
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Using Storage During Your Move?
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