If you’ve ever googled ‘Storage services in Kenya,’ you may have noticed some companies claim to offer self-storage services, but what exactly is self-storage and what other types of storage are available? Self-service or self-serve storage is a term used to differentiate managed or full-service storage.
With managed storage, the company packs your belongings, transports, loads them into the storage unit, and delivers them back when you need them. Most businesses prefer managed storage for convenience and efficient logistics management. It’s also more practical and efficient than depending on employees to pack, transport, and move items. Managed storage is simply the hassle-free, ‘sit-back and relax’ version!
With self-storage, on the other hand, you will have to take care of everything yourself; selecting a unit, packing and transporting your belongings, loading and organizing the unit, and delivery back when the storage period ends. The facility manager gives you access to your unit, usually through a personal key, and you can visit anytime within the facility’s working hours.
Before proceeding, read our guide on everything you need to know about self storage services in Kenya.
Whether you’re looking for short-term or long-term storage, self-storage and full-service storage services are options worth considering. However, your choice between the two should align with your unique storage needs and budget.
What’s the Best Storage Service For Your Needs?
Here are a few questions to ask to help your decision-making:
1. Do you require frequent access?
Flexibility of access is probably the biggest difference between managed storage and self-service storage. Self-storage is well suited for those who need access to their unit any time as and when they like.
2. Is safety or storage conditions a concern?
Both managed and self-storage units are equally safe, especially if they’re within the same storage facility with security features such as CCTV monitoring. However, while you can access your secured self-storage unit in person, you must be accompanied by personnel to access your secured storage area in a managed storage facility.
Furthermore, there are still climate-controlled units for both options so your goods are stored under the same conditions without worries.
3. Do you need to manage or handle the items you’re storing?
If all your items are packed and secured well (in a box or a suitcase), both self-storage and managed storage are equally suitable options. However, if you have many loose and unbundled items, self-storage allows you the freedom to have them lying around loosely within the unit until you can pack properly.
4. Do you have a budget?
Define a clear budget and allocate funds for storage expenses, considering your overall moving costs. Keep in mind that while self-storage may appear more cost-effective upfront, managed storage will save you a lot of time and effort in the long run.
It’s recommended to get quotes from multiple storage providers to gain a comprehensive understanding of the pricing landscape. Remember to inquire about any additional fees or services that might be included in the package.
Why Businessowners Prefer Managed Storage to Self-Storage
For business owners and managers, running business operations with minimal disruptions sometimes means having people and assets at the right place at the right time. However, the bigger your business or office, the harder it is to keep on top of your physical assets. This is where managed storage beats self-storage hands down.
Some advantages of managed storage in Kenya for business owners include:
1. Cost-Effective
The comprehensive nature of managed storage services involves professional packing, transportation, and storage fees, which can add up over time. While it may be costlier, many find it to be a worthwhile investment in exchange for the convenience it offers.
In terms of cost-effectiveness, you only pay for the space you use. For instance, you might need 5000 square feet of storage this month, but next month you might only need 3000 square feet. With self-storage, you usually sign up for a set unit size for a set period, meaning you could end up paying for extra space within the unit you don’t need.
Managed storage facility employees are trained to make better use of storage areas, using containers designed to save space. Self-storage can fast become chaotic, especially if a lot of people have access.
2. Seamless Integration with Your Business
You can seamlessly integrate a managed storage service with your business’s existing functions and procedures. Some storage facilities act as your outsourced team, working hand in hand with your staff allowing them to access or view business inventory or other items. As you can have items collected or returned at a day’s notice, your team can remain as agile as if they were accessing the storage facility themselves.
3. Insured Transport
When we collect your items there is the option to have your items insured which means in the rare case of an item being damaged in transit, it is fully covered. This offers peace of mind, especially if you’re storing items of high value or are very important sentimentally for you.
4. Unmatched Convenience
A team of experienced professionals arrives at your doorstep, armed with the expertise to efficiently pack your items and transport them to a secure storage facility. This hands-off approach relieves you of the stress and physical demands of packing and moving, making it especially beneficial if you’re short on time or energy.
Wrap Up
Ultimately, the choice between managed storage and self-storage boils down to your specific needs, priorities, and budget. By taking the time to thoroughly evaluate your options and align them with your circumstances, you can embark on your storage journey with confidence, knowing that you’ve chosen the option that best suits your unique situation.
At Nellions, we’re committed to helping you make the right storage choice that perfectly complements your moving journey. Whether you opt for the convenience of managed storage or the flexibility of self-storage, our team is here to assist you every step of the way, ensuring your belongings are well taken care of. We have over 14000 square feet of storage space – no matter what you want to store, from boxes to registered vehicles, you can be confident your property will be well preserved.
Contact Nellions at +254700000002 or email move@nellions.co.ke today to book your unit.
