What are the storage options?
When you start looking for self storage, you’ll usually come across two main options: container storage and indoor storage.
Both give you extra space without sacrificing the spare room, garage or every available corner of your home. However, the experience of using them can be quite different.
The right choice depends on what you’re storing, how often you need access and whether you fancy carrying a sofa through several corridors. Spoiler alert: we don’t.
Here’s an honest comparison to help you choose the right storage for your needs.
What is container storage?
Container storage uses individual, purpose-built storage containers located within a secure outdoor facility.
Each customer has their own private unit, which can usually be accessed directly from outside. At many blue self storage sites, you can drive your vehicle straight up to your unit, open the doors and unload your belongings.
There are no shared corridors, complicated routes or trolley journeys that feel suspiciously like an airport connection.
Container storage is particularly useful for:
- Moving house
- Storing furniture and appliances
- Business stock and equipment
- Tools and building materials
- Seasonal belongings
- Larger or heavier items
- Customers who need regular access
What is indoor storage?
Indoor storage is located inside a larger building, with individual rooms positioned along shared corridors. Depending on the facility, customers may use lifts, stairs or trolleys to transport their belongings from the loading area to their unit.
Indoor storage facilities often provide a wider choice of smaller unit sizes, making them useful for people who only need to store a few boxes, documents or smaller household items.
Indoor storage can be a good choice for:
- Smaller quantities of belongings
- Boxes, clothing and personal items
- Customers who prefer a building-based facility
- Items that are easy to move through corridors
- People who don’t need to access bulky items regularly
Which is easier to access?
This is where container storage really earns its keep.
With drive-up container storage, you can park directly outside your unit. That means fewer journeys between your vehicle and your belongings, which can make moving in and out much quicker.
It is particularly helpful if you’re storing sofas, wardrobes, heavy equipment or large amounts of business stock. Instead of navigating lifts and corridors, you can move everything directly between your vehicle and unit.
Indoor storage may involve parking in a designated loading area and transporting everything through the building. This isn’t necessarily a problem for a few boxes, but it can become a bit of a workout when you’re moving the contents of an entire house.
Which option is better for businesses?
Both options can work well for businesses, but container storage is often especially convenient for tradespeople, online sellers and companies storing equipment or stock.
Direct vehicle access makes it easier to load and unload deliveries, collect tools before work or restock a van. At blue self storage, customers at most of our sites can access their storage 24/7, so your unit can work around your business hours rather than the other way around.
Container storage also gives growing businesses flexibility without the cost or commitment of a traditional warehouse. You can choose the space you need now and change unit sizes as your requirements develop.
Indoor storage may be more suitable for businesses storing documents, small products or lightweight items that don’t need to be collected frequently.
Is container storage secure?
The security of a storage unit depends less on whether it is indoors or outdoors and more on the systems protecting the overall facility.
Before choosing any storage provider, check for features such as:
- Monitored CCTV
- Controlled site access
- Perimeter security
- Regular security patrols
- Individual unit locks
- Appropriate lighting
- Contents cover options
- Backup systems in case of power or internet failure
At blue self storage, our facilities are protected through a combination of 24/7 monitored CCTV, controlled access and advanced security technology. We also have our own in-house security team, including dog patrols at selected sites.
In short, we take security very seriously. Read more on our security here.
Does container storage protect belongings from the weather?
Purpose-built storage containers are designed to provide secure, enclosed storage and protect belongings from the weather.
However, wherever you store your belongings, packing them correctly remains important. Items should be clean and completely dry before going into storage. Furniture should be covered with breathable materials, fragile belongings should be wrapped carefully and boxes should be strong enough to stack.
Avoid placing damp items into any storage unit, as this can introduce moisture into the space. It’s also sensible to leave some airflow around your belongings rather than packing everything tightly against the walls.
Indoor storage can offer an additional layer of separation from outside conditions, but the same packing rules still apply. A damp tent is still a damp tent, even when it’s sitting inside a building.
Which gives you more privacy?
Container storage generally offers a high level of privacy because you access your unit directly. You don’t need to transport your belongings through shared corridors or pass other customers while moving items.
This can be particularly useful for businesses handling stock and equipment, or anyone who simply wants a straightforward moving experience.
Indoor facilities typically use shared entrances, corridors, lifts and loading areas. Your individual room remains private, but the journey to it may take place within communal spaces.
Which is more convenient?
Container storage may be the better option if you:
- Have large or heavy belongings
- Want to drive directly to your unit
- Need regular or out-of-hours access
- Run a business or work in a trade
- Want to load and unload quickly
- Prefer a private, straightforward storage experience
Indoor storage may suit you if you:
- Only have a small number of items
- Want a particularly small unit
- Are storing lightweight belongings
- Don’t mind using shared corridors or lifts
- Prefer storage inside a larger building
Container storage or indoor storage: the final verdict
There isn’t one right answer for everybody.
Indoor storage can be a practical option when you only have a few smaller belongings. Container storage, meanwhile, offers excellent convenience for furniture, business stock, equipment and anything bulky, particularly when you can drive directly to your unit.
The best choice comes down to how much you’re storing, what the items are and how often you’ll need them.
At blue self storage, we make storage simple with flexible contracts, no deposit, a 12-month price lock and secure units available in a range of sizes. With 24/7 access available at most locations, you can get to your belongings whenever you need them.
No endless corridors. No unnecessary faff. Just secure, convenient storage that works around you.
Book your unit today
