Is your office looking more like a storage cupboard than a workspace? If so, it might be time to consider offsite storage. With desks stacked high with documents, hallways cluttered with display units, and back rooms overflowing with forgotten furniture, many UK businesses are facing a familiar challenge: too much stuff, not enough space.
That’s where offsite storage comes in. It’s a simple, scalable solution to reclaiming your workspace, restoring your sanity, and getting your business back on track — without having to move or throw everything away.
In this guide, we’ll explore how offsite storage can transform your operations, what types of items are best stored away, and how to get started with a solution that’s flexible, affordable, and completely tailored to your business needs.
What Is Offsite Storage (and Who’s Using It)?
Offsite storage refers to storing business assets, stock, or equipment away from your main business premises — usually in a secure, purpose-built storage facility. It offers businesses of all sizes a way to streamline operations, declutter their workspaces, and remain flexible without committing to expensive warehousing.
And it’s not just large enterprises doing this. Across the UK, sole traders, e-commerce sellers, charities, estate agents, marketing firms, tradespeople and growing SMEs are all making use of offsite storage solutions.
According to a 2023 report from the Self Storage Association UK, 18% of self-storage customers in the UK are business users with that number rising steadily year on year. Why? Because offsite storage allows them to scale up, down, or sideways without the burden of long-term property leases.
What to Store Offsite: 8 Smart, Space-Hogging Examples
Wondering what to move out first? Here’s a breakdown of commonly stored items that are better offsite than under your desk:
Stock Overflow & POS Displays:
- Seasonal inventory that clogs up retail or backroom space
- Point-of-sale stands, promotional banners, and branded packaging
Furniture & Fixtures:
- Spare desks, chairs, shelving and signage not in use
- Excess furnishings from office moves or renovations
Offsite Storage for Documents & Archives:
- Financial paperwork, tax files, contracts and HR records that need to be kept — but not seen daily
- Offsite storage ensures these are secure and GDPR-compliant
Tools & Trade Equipment:
- Ideal for electricians, decorators, plumbers and other trades who don’t want to leave tools in vans overnight
- Reload what you need when you need it
Seasonal & Event Gear:
- Christmas decorations, uniforms, A-boards and folding tables for shows and pop-ups
Props, Marketing Materials & Samples:
- For creatives and agencies: photography props, sample books, lighting rigs and demo units
Offsite Storage for Redundant Tech or Old Equipment:
- Monitors, cables, backup laptops or legacy tech that still serves a purpose — just not every day
For a helpful size reference, check out this storage unit space calculator to estimate how much room your business might actually need.
Why Offsite Storage Works for Growing Businesses
There’s more to offsite storage than simply clearing out the clutter. Here’s how it actively benefits your business:
- Reclaims usable workspace – freeing up desks, hallways, and meeting rooms
- Reduces overhead – smaller premises = lower rent
- Boosts productivity – less clutter, more focus
- Improves security – offsite facilities are monitored 24/7
- Supports flexible growth – scale your storage up or down as needed
According to Harvard Business Review, cluttered environments increase stress and reduce mental clarity — which affects staff morale and performance. So, storing smarter isn’t just practical — it’s good for business health too.
How to Choose the Right Offsite Storage Facility
Not all storage providers are equal. Here’s what to look for:
- Location: Make sure it’s convenient for staff or deliveries — see Space Centre’s convenients locations
- Flexibility: Avoid long-term contracts unless necessary
- Security: 24/7 CCTV, gated access, and on-site staff are essential
- Insurance & pricing: Transparent pricing with included insurance is a must
Space Centre Self Storage ticks all those boxes, with sites in Bristol, Stroud, Stonehouse, Gloucester & Cheltenham. Our business units offer:
- Free insurance up to £3,000
- Drive-up access for easy loading
- No hidden costs
- Short or long-term options
We also offer dedicated stock storage and lock-up units perfect for trades or retailers.
Final Thoughts: Use Offsite Storage to Create Breathing Space
If your workplace feels like it’s bursting at the seams, offsite storage can give you the breathing room you need to grow — without throwing anything away or committing to expensive new premises.
It’s not about owning less. It’s about organising better, storing smarter, and giving your team a space that works as hard as they do.
Start by listing what’s just taking up space — then explore your options. Offsite storage might just be the simplest upgrade your business makes all year.