7 Deadly Sins of Storage
The 7 Demand Drivers in the Self-Storage Industry – (neither deadly nor sinful)
At Green Goat Storage in London, we see firsthand how life’s transitions and surprises often lead to the doorstep of a self-storage unit. And while some situations might bring a chuckle and others a tear, the reasons people turn to self-storage are surprisingly relatable. Here’s a look at the seven most common reasons behind this modern-day convenience, complete with stats and true-to-life tales. You may see some of the images below in our more recent advertsing, the closest display being the digital hoarding on the New Kings Road, SW6 moments away from our Fulham & Chelsea store.
- Decluttering: Marie Kondo Would Approve
A messy home isn’t just a modern inconvenience; it’s a global trend. Studies from the Self Storage Association UK (SSA UK) show that a whopping 42% of storage users are looking to clear out space at home. Whether it’s an overflowing wardrobe, endless hobby supplies, or holiday decorations, people are seeking a temporary refuge for their overflow.
One client arrived at Green Goat Storage with an entire collection of vintage action figures—500 of them, each more elaborate than the last. When his partner gave him a choice between the collection or their shared space, he decided to save both: the figures moved into storage. Today, he often jokes that our storage facility is “the other half of his relationship.”
- Business Growth: When Start-Ups Outgrow the Garage
With e-commerce on the rise, it’s no surprise that 20% of self-storage units are rented by businesses, according to SSA UK. From budding artisans to booming small companies, these entrepreneurs have discovered that storage units make great (and affordable) overflow warehouses.
A candle maker recently transformed her storage unit into a sweet-smelling workspace. Boxes of wax and essential oils lined the walls, and she called it her “scent sanctuary.” She used the space to produce, package, and prep her inventory, all while basking in the smell of lavender and sandalwood.
- The Difficult Times: Coping with a Loss
In more tender moments, like after the passing of a loved one, self-storage provides a compassionate solution. Studies show that a large number of storage users come to us for a temporary, secure place to hold family items until they’re ready to sort through them.
One family brought us dozens of boxes filled with their grandmother’s cherished items, including her beloved teacup collection. Not quite ready to part with them, they tucked the boxes away, naming the unit “Granny’s China Club.” It allowed them to preserve memories at their own pace, with a dash of humor to lighten the load.
- Divorce: When Moving On Means Moving Out
Breakups are tough enough without having to decide who gets the sofa, the lamp, or—believe it or not—the garden gnomes. It’s no surprise, then, that self-storage facilities see a spike in demand from newly single individuals in need of a place to stow their stuff.
One determined customer brought in a collection of 30 garden gnomes. “They’re mine,” she said firmly. The gnomes have since taken up residence at Green Goat, guarding her storage unit with the same defiant look on their faces. While her ex may be gone, the gnomes are here to stay.
- Moving House: A Safe Harbor in the Transition
Nearly 47% of storage users find themselves in need of a storage unit when moving from one place to another, according to SSA UK. Moving day delays, unexpected house closings, or simply needing to bridge the gap between residences often result in storage being the hero of the day.
One client used her storage unit as a temporary living room during a two-month gap between homes. She would pop by every now and then to “sit in her space” amidst her boxed-up furniture. It felt like a small slice of home amidst the transition, complete with her favorite armchair and a well-loved coffee table.
- Renovations: Stashing Belongings from DIY Mayhem
If you’ve ever tried to protect a houseful of furniture from a home renovation project, you understand why 21% of storage customers rent space to save their belongings from dust, paint, and, sometimes, the overenthusiastic DIYer in the family.
A client, braving a kitchen overhaul, decided to store her prized collection of vintage mixing bowls. “My husband’s DIY skills aren’t quite up to scratch, and I don’t trust him around my bowls,” she admitted with a laugh. While the mixing bowls remained safe with us, the kitchen remodel… well, let’s just say it was an adventure.
- Family Growth: When a New Arrival Means a New Space Dilemma
New babies bring joy—and lots of stuff. For families outgrowing their current setup, self-storage provides a perfect solution to make room for all things baby. And in urban areas like London, where homes are compact, space can be an especially precious resource.
One new dad at Green Goat Storage stored all his workout gear, explaining, “I’ll get back to it… eventually.” For now, he and his wife needed more room for prams and baby bottles than barbells. The gym equipment can wait, but in the meantime, it’s safely tucked away in storage.
Final Thoughts
From the practical to the personal, people use self-storage for all sorts of reasons. At Green Goat Storage, we see every unit as a unique snapshot of our clients’ lives. Whether you’re moving, splitting up, or simply running out of room, self-storage is more than a unit; it’s a safe space for your belongings during life’s ups, downs, and unexpected surprises. So, next time you feel cramped, remember: your solution might just be a unit away.