Start small and a storage business can grow with demand

More and more farms are turning wasted space into a simple, stress-free self-storage business – could this low maintenance business idea work for you?

Setting up a self-storage business doesn’t need to be a big endeavour or come with a huge financial outlay, instead it can grow when you have the demand.

It requires a few key things on a farm: good access, hard-standing, plus a reliable supply of shipping containers – this final element is where Container People Storage can come in.

For decades, this small, family business has helped farmers set up successful self-storage enterprises that grow at a pace suited to the farm in question. These side hustles often start with one or two shipping containers, with more ordered when a new customer comes along. Over time, a farm can create a successful self-storage setup that results in a sizeable income.

Paul, co-founder of Container People Storage, says: “The beauty of starting a self-storage business is it’s adaptable to any budget and set up. You don’t need big buildings to house the shipping containers, they’re made to be transported across oceans, so the rain and wind won’t bother them. All you really need is a suitable piece of land and good access.”

So, how can you make this work for your farm?

Key considerations

The site: Is the ground level and hardstanding, otherwise the doors on the shipping container might warp over time. There could also be delivery issues as the haulage vehicles are heavy.

Dimensions: What size suits you? Containers are available as 10, 20 or 40ft, they’re all 8ft 6ins high and 8ft wide.

Security: Containers all have lockboxes for padlocks, which you can supply to customers. But will you have gates that can be locked, ensuring you’re in control of who comes and goes?

Costs: Rental costs from Container People Storage start at £10 per week +VAT. Self-storage costs charged by farms, are far higher – take a look to see what people charge locally to get an idea of what you could charge. 

Outlay: If you rent containers from Container People Storage, you would need to pay the return haulage upfront and then a monthly rental invoice per unit. If you can take two containers at a time, the haulage cost is better value. Used containers aren’t pristine but are cheaper – an option worth considering.

Insurance: Public liability insurance will be needed to protect you and anyone visiting your site.

Paul says: “We recommend 20ft containers as they are the best value to rent, buy and in terms of haulage. I also suggest starting small and building up over time when the demand is there. You don’t need 20 containers on day one, you can add new containers to your site when demand picks up.

“We’ve seen this method work out so well for farmers in the past. Some start out renting from us and then buy the containers when they’ve built up funds. But some rent long term as it is more convenient.”

If this sounds like it could work for your farm, you can get in touch with Container People Storage for more information on 07812 374 290 or head to its website and send your details.

Read more business news.