Need self-storage but don't have any transport? It's a common problem, but there is a solution.
Collection-based storage, also known as mobile storage, eliminates the need to own or hire a car or van. This is because the storage unit comes directly to your home or business. It's loaded, taken away to a secure storage facility then redelivered to your chosen address whenever you're ready.
It can save you time, effort and the expense of hiring a vehicle. It's no wonder then that mobile storage is fast becoming one of the most popular self-storage solutions.
Read on to find out how collection-based storage works, who it's best for, and why mobile storage solutions from Kiwi Storage could be just what you need if you don't have a car.
Why storage without a car is a common problem
If you live in a big city or a built-up area - such as London, for example - it may not make financial or practical sense for you to have a car. It can cost a fortune to maintain and insure, and parking restrictions may mean there's nowhere for you to keep it either.
But this can be a major drawback when it comes to moving house, de-cluttering or one of the many other occasions when you may need self-storage. How do you get your stuff to and from the storage unit, or even find one in the first place?
You may not have a driving licence, so hiring a vehicle isn't an option either.
Storage options if you don't have a car
If you don't have a car but need to access storage, you'll be left with a few options:
1. Hire a van
Some people choose to hire a van, but this comes with its own issues. There's the expense, plus insurance and excesses, along with the difficulties in a built-up city like London of finding somewhere to park.
2. Man-and-van service or ask a friend
If you don't have a driving licence, you can hire a man-and-van service or ask a favour from a friend with a suitable vehicle. The first option comes with costs, while the second could be a touch too much to ask unless you're very close friends. Remember, you'll need to ask for their help again when it comes to picking your stuff back up again.
3. Mobile storage
With neither of the above options being ideal, convenient alternatives such as mobile storage have rocketed in popularity. Having your items collected and returned to your home address can save you a huge amount of time and effort.
It's efficient and convenient, and cost-effective too. Although it may cost a little extra compared to simply renting a self-storage unit, it could save you money compared to the costs associated with hiring a van or using a man-and-van service.
The ideal solution: mobile storage from Kiwi Storage
London storage specialist Kiwi Storage has a handy door-to-door collection and container delivery service, where we bring storage units (known as Kiwi Cubes) directly to your home or business.
Here's how it works:
- Book your collection date
- Pack your stuff - or ask us about our professional packing service, in conjunction with sister company Kiwi Movers
- The unit arrives at your chosen address on the agreed date and is loaded
- The unit is taken to one of our secure storage facilities nearby
- When you're ready, book a redelivery date and we'll return it right back to your chosen address
Everything can be arranged online, and prices are affordable - starting from just £99 per month (inc. VAT).
FAQs
How do I find storage when I have no car?
You can hire a van or use a man-and-van service, but collection-based storage (also known as mobile storage) can potentially be more convenient and cost-effective.
Is there a storage option that doesn't require me to transport my own items?
Yes - with mobile storage, the unit comes directly to your home or business, so you don't need to transport anything yourself.
How much does collection-based storage cost compared to renting a van?
You'll need to get a quote for both services, as it can vary depending on your needs. A key thing to consider is that van hire typically comes with lots of extra/hidden costs (i.e. insurance, excess, damage penalties, late return fees) whereas mobile storage typically has just one upfront cost plus a small redelivery charge.
Can I book collection storage last-minute?
It depends on the provider. Storage specialists like Kiwi Storage have an online portal where you can check live availability and book a collection.
