How to source and install storage units or containers
Choosing and fitting the right units is the core physical investment of your business, turning an empty space into a revenue-generating facility.
To successfully set up your facility, you must choose between indoor partitioning or outdoor shipping containers based on your site, secure quotes from specialist UK suppliers, and coordinate a professional installation that maximises floor space while ensuring customer safety. This physical fit-out is likely your largest upfront cost, so getting the specification right the first time is essential.
Choosing your unit type
Your choice depends entirely on your site. If you have an indoor warehouse, you will likely need a specialist fit-out company to install corrugated steel partition systems. These are flexible and allow you to create various room sizes. If you have open land, shipping containers are the standard choice. They are robust, weather-resistant, and relatively easy to scale as your business grows.
Where to source units
In the UK, several specialist manufacturers focus specifically on the self-storage industry. When sourcing, consider the following avenues:
- Trade Associations: Look for suppliers who are members of the Self Storage Association (SSA) UK to ensure they meet industry standards for quality and security.
- Container Depots: For outdoor storage, you can buy "one-trip" containers (effectively new) or "used" containers. One-trip units look more professional and require significantly less maintenance.
- Specialist Fit-out Contractors: For indoor systems, look for companies that offer a full design-and-install service, including the tracks, doors, and mezzanine floors if required.
Installation and logistics
The installation process varies significantly depending on your chosen model. For external containers, the ground must be level and stable. Placing containers on concrete pads or railway sleepers prevents them from sinking into soft ground, which can cause the doors to jam. For internal systems, professional installers will build a "track and channel" system to hold the walls and roll-up doors in place.
| Feature | Indoor Partitions | Outdoor Containers |
|---|---|---|
| Security | Internal locks and alarms | Heavy-duty lock boxes |
| Climate Control | Easier to regulate/insulate | Prone to condensation without vents |
| Installation Speed | Weeks (construction phase) | Days (delivery and levelling) |
Key tips for a smooth setup
Always check supplier lead times. Custom partitions or high-quality containers can take 8 to 12 weeks to arrive, so place your orders well in advance of your planned opening date.
Before delivery day, ensure your site is accessible. Large delivery trucks (Hiabs) need significant space to manoeuvre and lift containers into place. If you are fitting out an internal warehouse, ensure the floor is clear of debris and any major structural work is finished before the partitioning team arrives. Check that the doors you select are easy for customers to operate; roll-up doors are generally preferred for their space-saving design and ease of use.
Created by hatch. • Updated on April 30, 2026