Most people will have heard of self-storage containers, which can be accessed on a 24/7 basis, and possessions can be added or removed at any point. However, it’s also important to consider managed storage too – as that could be better suited to your individual needs!
When customers come to us for storage, the first thing they will typically ask is ‘what is the difference between managed and self-storage?’.
In its simplest terms, the main difference between the two is that managed storage is, as the name suggests, managed. Each and every step is taken care of by our team on your behalf.
There are many benefits to our managed storage
Self storage containers are perfect if you need to access your belongings regularly, as you can visit on site whenever you wish. However, managed storage comes with a wealth of benefits too, including minimalised handling of goods (once it’s away, it isn’t touched!) and the secure location of our purpose-built warehouse.
Our managed container storage system goes the extra mile to ensure that your possessions are safe at all times. The wooden containers are made in our state-of-the art warehouse, and are designed and built by our expert team specifically for furniture storage.
You’ll be able to have complete peace of mind that your items are fully secured and insured throughout their time under our care.
We’ll transport your belongings for you
Unlike self-storage options, which will often involve the difficult task of packing, loading, transporting and unloading your belongings into the container yourself, our managed storage containers will come directly to your home.
Once you’ve confirmed you’d like a managed storage container, we will book a suitable date for us to collect your goods.
At Steeles, we’re built for transporting furniture. With sliding doors on our trucks for easy access, our team of experienced movers will come to you with empty containers ready to be loaded up.
We always ensure that we protect your belongings with the relevant padding (the same as we would any house removal), and stack items to minimise any movement. It will then all be sealed on your doorstep, before being loaded into the trucks to be delivered to Steeles HQ.
As we’re loading, we’ll complete a full inventory for all containers, making note of the condition of your goods and any pre-existing damage so that you have full reassurance of the care we will take. After all, we know how important and meaningful your possessions are to you.
Comprehensive insurance plus 24-hour CCTV
From the minute we set off from your driveway, your valuables will be fully insured under our comprehensive plan, meaning that we will take full and complete liability for the duration of your service. Should a rare incident occur, you can be fully reassured that you’re covered.
When your items arrive at our warehouse, they will be added to our secure storage system with 24-hour CCTV and alarms. If the alarm is triggered, police are immediately alerted for your protection and peace of mind.
Our managed storage has become increasingly popular amongst our clients, mainly due to the level of security that it provides. No-one, except you, is able to access your belongings without prior agreement and booking an appointment.
When should I choose managed storage?
There’s no ‘one size fits all’ when it comes to managed storage, as everyone has different circumstances. With a global customer base, we often get many obscure, unusual requests!
That being said, we’ve compiled a list of the four most common reasons for choosing managed storage:
- Downsizing your home
- A sudden change in family circumstances
- Holding goods whilst going through probate
- Vacating your current home to preserve a house sale, putting you in a very strong position when purchasing your next home
Another benefit of using managed storage containers is that they are wooden and breathable, meaning that your items won’t smell musty or be exposed to condensation.
As our wooden containers are stored in our warehouse, they are safe and protected from all of the elements. We also ensure to open our doors regularly to optimise the airflow, and for our frequent security patrols.
We offer free, no-obligation quotations and a one-to-one tour of our facility upon request. If you’re in the process of moving home, going through difficult circumstances or downsizing, get in touch with our friendly team.