Storing To Stay Calm

Frequently Asked Questions About Running A Business Out Of A Self Storage Unit

30 August 2016

Lois King

Due to the high costs of renting an office space and the long leases some companies make you sign, many small business owners have been looking for an alternative solution to get the business space they need. One creative solution that is taking off is using a self-storage unit as office space. If this is something you have heard about and are contemplating, you may have many questions. Here are a few frequently asked questions about running a business out of a self storage unit.

Can You Run a Business Out of a Self Storage Unit?

There is not a clear-cut answer to this question. In some cases, you can run a business out of a self-storage unit. In other cases, you cannot. There are many factors that determine whether or not you can. One factor is where you live. Some counties, cities, and states prohibit individuals from running a business in a self storage unit, while others don't have any laws about it. Another factor is whether the owner allows it or not. Some self-storage facility owners will not allow you to run any type of business out of their facility, while others are encouraging it. So the short answer is maybe you can run a business out of a self storage unit.

What Types of Businesses Can Be Run Out of a Storage Unit?

If you find a self-storage facility willing to let you run your business out of a storage locker, there are many different types of businesses you can run. Most businesses run out of storage facilities are online retail businesses. You can sell products, store them in a self storage facility, and then ship them out to the customers when they sell. Some people set up mini offices in the storage unit that look similar to a work cubicle. You can sell insurance, set up a phone-based business, or run a web design business using this method. A more unique business that is run out of a storage unit is a photography studio. Using backdrops and props, the plain storage unit can be transformed into a beautiful setting for birthday, wedding, anniversary or school portraits.

What Factors Should Be Considered When Selecting a Self-Storage Facility for Business Needs?

If you have decided to run a business out of a self-storage facility, finding the right facility is key. Obviously you need to find a facility that will allow you to run a business out of their unit. Once you have found that, you need to find a facility that allows the exact type of business you want to run. Some facilities that allow businesses will only allow you to work in the unit. They will not allow your customers to come and go from the facilities. Others don't mind that. Some facilities will allow all types of businesses as long as they are legal and safe, and others may limit the type of businesses that are allowed. For example, they may not allow you to repair cars for your business in a unit because oil can stain the floor in their facility.

The last factor you need to pay attention to when selecting a storage facility to run your business from is what services they offer to people running a business. Some facilities are looking to attract those who want to work in their storage units, as it helps them fill up empty units. In order to do this, they may offer free Wi-Fi, offer to accept mail on your behalf, or allow you to receive faxes in their office. If you have business needs such as these, find a facility who not only allows businesses, but welcomes them with open arms.

If you are looking for an alternative to pricey office space, you may have heard about running a business out of a self-storage unit, and it may be something you are considering. Getting answers to the questions you have will help you decide if this is something you should look into further.

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