Self-storage isn't just for household moves — it's one of the most cost-effective overflow solutions available to small and mid-sized businesses. Commercial leases are expensive and inflexible. A storage unit provides the same extra square footage at a fraction of the price, on a month-to-month basis. Here's when it makes sense, what to look for, and how to negotiate the best deal.
When Business Storage Makes Sense
Office Document Archiving
Legal, financial, and compliance documents that you're required to keep but rarely access are ideal for storage. A 5×10 unit ($50–$100/month) holds thousands of file boxes — far cheaper than filing cabinets in prime office space or offsite document management services.
Retail and E-Commerce Inventory Overflow
For seasonal spikes or growing inventory, a storage unit is cheaper and faster than expanding your lease. A 10×20 unit ($150–$280/month) holds significant inventory with room for a small picking station. You can rent month-to-month and scale up or down with demand.
Tradespeople and Contractors
Tools, equipment, materials, and safety gear take up space. Storage units near job sites reduce the time and fuel cost of hauling equipment back to a home base. Many tradespeople find a unit near their main work area pays for itself within weeks in saved drive time.
Event Companies and Rental Businesses
Tables, chairs, linens, AV equipment, and props need storage between events. A storage unit is far cheaper than paying for warehouse space — and most facilities have reasonable daytime access hours that work for weekly load-ins and load-outs.
Growing Businesses Between Leases
If you're between office spaces or warehouse locations, storage provides a short-term bridge. Keep the business running without committing to a new long-term lease before you know your exact needs.
What to Look for in a Business Storage Unit
Drive-Up Access
For inventory, equipment, or anything heavy, a ground-floor drive-up unit is worth the premium. Being able to park a van or truck directly at the unit door makes every load-in and load-out dramatically faster.
Extended or 24-Hour Access
Business needs don't always align with 9–5 hours. Look for facilities with extended access hours (6am–10pm minimum) or true 24-hour access. Some facilities charge a premium for 24-hour access — for businesses, it's usually worth it.
Climate Control for Sensitive Goods
Electronics, artwork, wine, perishable retail goods, and paper records all benefit from climate control. For document archiving especially, temperature and humidity stability is the difference between legible records and moldy, yellow paper.
Power Outlets
A small number of facilities offer units with electrical outlets. If you need to run a laptop, charge equipment, or power lighting for occasional work sessions inside the unit, ask specifically about this before signing.
Loading Dock or Elevator Access
For larger facilities, check the loading infrastructure. Upper-floor units are cheaper but require elevator access — make sure the elevator can handle your load dimensions. Ground-floor units with a loading dock are best for high-volume operations.
Negotiating Business Rates
Monthly vs. Annual Contracts
Most facilities default to month-to-month. If you know you need the space for 6–12+ months, ask for a discounted annual rate. Many facilities will offer 1–2 months free or a 10–15% monthly rate reduction for a longer commitment.
Multiple Units
If you need more than one unit, negotiate as a package. Facilities often give 10–20% discounts for renting multiple units simultaneously.
Corporate Accounts
Larger national chains (Public Storage, Extra Space, CubeSmart) have formal corporate account programs with centralized billing and rate discounts for businesses using multiple locations.
Tax Considerations
In the US and Canada, self-storage costs for business use are generally deductible as a business expense. Keep your lease agreements and monthly receipts. If you use a portion of a unit for personal items, only the business-use portion is deductible.
Always confirm deductibility with your accountant for your specific situation.
What Not to Store
Most facility agreements prohibit: perishable goods, hazardous materials (chemicals, flammable liquids), cash or negotiable instruments, and live animals. Review the prohibited items list before storing anything unusual.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a business use a self-storage unit?
Yes, self-storage is widely used by businesses for document archiving, inventory overflow, equipment storage, and temporary space between leases. Most facilities welcome commercial tenants and some offer business-specific features like 24-hour access, drive-up units, and corporate billing accounts.
Is self-storage tax deductible for businesses?
In the US and Canada, self-storage costs used for business purposes are generally deductible as a business operating expense. Keep your lease agreements and monthly invoices. Only the business-use portion is deductible if the unit is also used for personal items. Confirm specifics with your accountant.
What size storage unit does a small business need?
A 5×10 unit ($50–$100/month) handles document archiving for most small offices. A 10×10 works for moderate inventory or equipment. A 10×20 ($150–$280/month) suits e-commerce businesses with seasonal inventory spikes. Contractors often need 10×15 or 10×20 units for tools and materials.
How do I find a storage unit near my business location?
Use StorageAtlas to search by zip code or city. Filter by amenities like drive-up access, 24-hour availability, and climate control. Comparing real monthly prices side by side saves time and avoids the need for multiple phone calls.