Category: Thought Leadership

Self storage has gained in popularity over the years, providing a convenient solution for all kinds of space-related needs. However, it’s not uncommon to have a few questions before you dive into this service. 

In this blog post, we’ll address the five main questions everyone has about self storage. These questions cover the basics of self storage and are essential for anyone considering renting a storage unit. 

How Does Self Storage Work?

The concept of self storage may be unknown to some of you reading, so it’s natural to wonder how it all works. Self storage facilities offer variously sized units that you can rent on a monthly basis. You are responsible for moving your items in and out of your rented unit, although many facilities have moving services that can help assist with this part of the journey. Here’s how the process works from start to finish: 

1. Looking: The first step of renting a storage unit involves contacting a local self storage facility, either in person, by phone, or online, to inquire about their availability and pricing. Many facilities have websites that allow you to reserve and pay for a unit online.
2. Choosing: Units come in various sizes, from small lockers to spacious warehouse-style spaces. To determine the best size, create an inventory of the items you plan to store. Most facilities have knowledgeable staff who can help you choose the right size based on your list, and some even have online size calculators.
3. Moving: Once you’ve rented a unit, it’s time to move your belongings in. This step is typically a DIY process. Some facilities offer moving equipment like forklifts or helpful staff to assist with this process. Be sure to pack your items securely and use appropriate storage containers (like cardboard moving boxes) to protect them from dust and potential damage.

What Are the Different Types of Self Storage?

You didn’t think there was just one type, did you?

Self storage facilities have come a long way from being a standard 4X4 metre room. They have evolved into versatile spaces catering to various storage needs. Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, or student, there’s a type of self storage ideally suited to your situation.

Types of Self Storage 

Personal Storage 

Personal storage is the most common type of self storage and is mostly used by individuals for residential purposes. These units come in various sizes, allowing you to store furniture, appliances, seasonal items, and more. 

Business Storage 

Business storage is tailored to the needs of companies and entrepreneurs. It’s an excellent option for storing excess inventory, office equipment, and business records. Whether you run a small e-commerce business or a large enterprise, business storage can help streamline your operations by providing additional space for your business-related items.

Student Storage 

For students, self storage offers a flexible solution during transitional phases of student life, such as moving between semesters, studying abroad, or dealing with everyday limited dormitory space. Student storage is ideal for storing furniture, textbooks, and personal items while you focus on your studies or travel.

Document Storage 

Document storage facilities specialise in securely storing sensitive documents, files, and records. Businesses, law firms, healthcare providers, and government agencies often use document storage to meet legal requirements and maintain well-organised archives. It’s a smart choice for protecting valuable information and freeing up essential office space.

Container Storage 

Storing your personal belongings or business goods in a secure storage container is not only a convenient storage solution but a cost-effective one. These containers are expertly designed to withstand harsh weather conditions and provide maximum protection for your belongings. 

What Size Storage Unit Do I Need?

Choosing the right size storage unit can be a challenge. The size of your unit directly impacts how efficiently you can store your belongings and, ultimately, how much you’ll pay in storage costs. By taking the time to assess your belongings and plan accordingly, you can ensure that your self storage experience is as cost-effective and space-efficient as possible.

To find the perfect fit, do the following:

• Make a list of all the things you intend to place in storage
• Categorise your items based on their size and how frequently you’ll need to access them
• Check the unit sizes available 
• Talk with the self storage staff about your needs

What Are the Costs of Renting a Self Storage Unit?

Before you dive into renting one, it’s vital to understand the different costs that come with this spacious service.

1. The Monthly Rental Fee 

The most obvious cost of renting a self storage unit is the monthly rental fee. This fee varies based on several factors, including the location of the facility, the size of the unit, and any additional amenities or services provided. 

2. Security Deposit 

Many storage facilities require a security deposit, which is a refundable fee meant to cover any potential damage to the unit or unpaid rent. Make sure you ask about the facility’s policy regarding security deposits and under what circumstances they may refund it.

3. Insurance Costs 

While storage facilities will have security measures in place, insurance coverage for your belongings is sometimes an extra cost. Find out what insurance options are available at the facility and choose a level of coverage that best suits your needs. The insurance cost will depend on the value and nature of your stored items.

4. Late Payment Fees 

To avoid late payment fees, paying your monthly rent on time is important. Storage facilities typically charge late fees for overdue payments, which can vary in amount. Make sure you understand the facility’s policy on late payments to avoid any unexpected charges.

5. Additional Services 

Some self storage facilities offer additional services, such as moving and packing supplies, truck rentals, or assistance with moving your items in and out of the unit. These services can come at an extra cost, or they may be included as free features, so be sure to ask before you sign any contracts.

What Amenities Are Available at the Best Self Storage Facilities?

When you’re renting a self storage unit, it’s not just about having a place to store your belongings — it’s also about enjoying convenient amenities that enhance your storage experience. Here are some of the best features a self storage facility will offer in addition to taking great care of your stuff!

• Van Hire: Hiring a van can be a game-changer when you’re moving your belongings to or from your storage unit. It saves you the hassle and cost of renting a moving van separately. 
• On-Site Packaging Shop: Whether it’s sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, or other essential packing materials, having a well-stocked packaging shop on site simplifies the process of preparing your items for storage. 
•  24/7 Access: Modern life can be unpredictable, and sometimes you need access to your stored items outside of regular business hours.
• Modern Security Features: The best self storage facilities invest in modern security features to protect your items. These may include surveillance cameras, access control systems, and individual alarm systems for each unit.

Where Is the Best Place To Rent a Self Storage Unit?

Wigwam Self Storage, of course! Check out our exceptional self storage facilities in Chipping Norton, Bromsgrove, and Shipston-on-Stour. We provide a wide range of storage unit sizes, catering to your diverse needs. Whether you require personal storage for household belongings, spacious storage containers, or a dedicated space for business growth, securing an affordable self storage solution has never been more convenient.

Get your quote with us today!

If you’re tired of feeling overwhelmed and unproductive due to clutter and disorganisation, you’re not alone. Research shows that a messy environment can have a negative impact on our mental health, stress levels and productivity. 

The good news is, by understanding the psychology behind organisation, you can learn how to create an environment that fosters productivity and happiness.

In this article, we delve into the science behind organisation and offer you practical tips to create an organised space that promotes productivity and happiness. From reducing clutter to bringing in natural elements, we cover it all. 

How Clutter Affects Your Brain and Well-being

Have you ever felt anxious or overwhelmed by the sight of a messy room or cluttered desk? There’s a reason for that. 

• One study conducted by the University of California, Los Angeles, found that women who described their homes as cluttered had higher levels of cortisol, a stress hormone, than women who described their homes as tidy. 
• Another study conducted by the Princeton University Neuroscience Institute found that clutter can make it more difficult for your brain to focus and process information.

So, why does clutter have such a negative impact on our mental state? 

The answer lies in our brain’s ability to process information. When we are surrounded by clutter, our brains are forced to process more information, which can lead to cognitive overload and decreased productivity.

The Benefits of an Organised Workspace

Now that we understand the negative impact clutter can have on our mental state and well-being, let’s explore the benefits of an organised workspace.

• Improved Productivity – An organised workspace can improve your productivity by reducing distractions and making it easier to find the tools and resources you need to complete tasks. When everything has a designated place, you can spend less time searching for things and more time getting things done.
• Reduced Stress – An organised workspace can also reduce stress by creating a sense of order and control. When everything is in its place, you can feel more in control of your environment and less overwhelmed by the demands of your work.
• Increased Creativity – An organised workspace can also increase creativity by providing a clear space for your mind to work. When your environment is clutter-free, your brain can focus on the task at hand, allowing for more creative thinking.

Tips for Decluttering and Organising Your Home or Office

Let’s explore some practical tips for decluttering and organising your home or office.

• Start Small – If the thought of decluttering is overwhelming, start small. Begin by tackling one room or area at a time, and work in short increments to avoid burnout.
• Get Rid of What You Don’t Need – The first step in decluttering is to get rid of anything that you no longer need or use. Be honest with yourself and consider donating or selling items that are in good condition but no longer serve a purpose in your life.
• Create a System – Once you have decluttered your space, it’s important to create a system for organising your remaining items. Consider using storage solutions such as shelves, bins and file folders to create designated spaces for your belongings.
• Stay Consistent – The key to maintaining an organised environment is to stay consistent. Make it a habit to put things back in their designated space after use, and regularly declutter and reorganise your space to prevent clutter from accumulating.

The Connection Between Organisation and Productivity

Studies have shown that an organised workspace can significantly improve productivity by reducing distractions and increasing focus. When everything has a designated place, it’s easier to find what you need quickly and get started on your work. A clutter-free environment can reduce stress and increase creativity, both of which are important for productivity.

• One study conducted by the National Association of Professional Organisers found that 82% of people feel more productive in an organised workspace. 
• A study by the Harvard Business Review found that employees who work in an organised environment are able to work for longer periods without feeling fatigued.

When you’re organised, you can prioritise your tasks and manage your time more efficiently.

Creating an Environment that Fosters Productivity and Happiness

Let’s explore some additional tips for creating a space that fosters productivity and happiness.

• Bring in natural elements – Studies have shown that exposure to natural light can improve mood, while plants can reduce stress and increase productivity.
• Personalise your space – Adding personal touches, such as photos or artwork, can make your environment feel inviting and increase your sense of ownership. 
• Prioritise comfort – Invest in a comfortable chair, consider standing desks, and incorporate ergonomic tools into your workspace to reduce strain and promote posture.
• Minimise distractions – Consider noise-cancelling headphones, closing your door or using a white noise machine to block out distractions.

Conclusion

Creating an organised environment that fosters productivity and happiness is an important step in achieving success in both your personal and professional life. 

By understanding the psychology behind organisation you can improve your mental state, reduce stress and increase productivity.

At Wigwam Self Storage, we understand the importance of creating an organised environment, and we offer a variety of storage solutions to help you achieve exactly that. 

Pro Tip: Whether you’re decluttering your home or office, or need storage while moving, our space calculator can help you determine the amount of space you need!

Are you downsizing your home and looking for space to store extra furniture, or are you looking to store business stock? Self storage continues to prove to be a cost effective solution for whatever your space needs may be, but how do you choose a reliable provider? 

The same way you judge a restaurant on the taste of its food, there are a few key features to look out for when selecting a self storage facility. At Wigwam Self Storage, we’re so much more than just a self storage facility. Here’s why. 

Convenient access for locals

Located on Hook Norton Road, Wigwam Self Storage provides accessible self storage solutions to the broader Chipping Norton area. Our facility features unrivaled security systems, allowing our customers to access their units 24 hours a day, seven days a week. 

Flexible lease agreements

We understand that life is unpredictable, which is why our services and agreements are flexible, allowing you to rent a unit for as little as two weeks or for as long as you like. Whether you’re looking for temporary storage during a home renovation, or a place to hold business stock over the holiday season, we offer a selection of unit sizes ranging from 16 sq ft to a whopping 1,000 sq ft. Even better, our customers can upsize or downsize their units as needed with no extra cost!

A team that goes above and beyond

Wigwam Self Storage is a family-run business that offers self storage with a personalised touch. Our dedicated team goes above and beyond to make sure that your self storage experience is seamless. We even offer a virtual office solution to use as an operational base.

Personalised services

No single person’s storage needs are the same. Whether with our reliable van hire service or convenient packaging shop, we are dedicated to supplying everything you need to move or store your belongings safely.  

Container storage services

In addition to safe and secure self storage units, we also offer storage containers for business and personal use. Our containers are also monitored by 24-hour CCTV cameras,  giving customers peace of mind when storing or accessing large quantities of stock, inventory or goods.  

Wigwam opened its doors a few years ago and has grown into a trusted and reliable self storage facility. Our family-run business offers affordable options for household and business storage, treating each of our customers as valued members of our family. Call us at 01608 656 300 to chat with our friendly team, or connect with us online.

Chipping Norton is known for its charming countryside that buzzes with festivities in December. With ample activities on offer, it’s no wonder that Brits flock to the market town to make the most out of the festive season. 

If you’re planning to spend a few winter days in Chipping Norton this December, be sure to add the following activities to your itinerary. 

Blenheim Palace and the illuminated light trail

Blenheim Palace features a Christmas Market as well as an after-dark trail that is illuminated at night to explore the outdoors. The Christmas Market runs until the 19th December and boasts over 70 designers and artisans selling their products in the Great Court. 

Fairytale Farm

Fairytale Farm is a family favourite, offering a magical and immersive space to enjoy the festive cheer. Tickets are on sale for Saturdays and Sundays until 12th December, and then daily from 13th of December until Christmas Eve. Visitors can expect a range of entertainment including interactive dancing penguins and Santa’s sleigh ready for delivery. Parents can also enjoy a late-night feast of mulled wine and mince pies. 

Oxford castle and grotto

If you’d like to celebrate the season a little bit differently this year, why not hum jingle bells from behind bars?  A stone’s throw away from Chipping Norton, Oxford Castle & Prison hosts Christmas at the Castle. There are daily daytime guided tours, led by costumed guides with lantern lights. Santa’s grotto is also coming to town, providing an opportunity to meet Santa and enjoy festive-themed activities. 

The Theatre Chipping Norton

The Theatre Chipping Norton is an entertainment hotspot during the festive season, showcasing a selection of delightful productions in various theatre, concert and gallery formats. 

Jaffé and Neale Bookshop and Café

Nothing can quite compare with the warm and cosy atmosphere of a bookshop and café. In the heart of winter, Jaffé and Neale Bookshop and Café offers a warm place to browse best-selling novels and sip on a warm beverage. Who knows, you might even pick up a few Christmas gifts!

At Wigwam Self Storage, we pride ourselves on being invested in the Chipping Norton community, offering safe and secure storage solutions for personal and business needs. Located on Hook Norton Road, we provide 24/7 accessibility to our valued clients. Contact us at 01608 656 300 to find out more, or fill out a contact form online and we’ll give a call back!

For any business owner, a main goal is to keep costs to a minimum and increase profits. Many savvy business owners choose business self storage to help them achieve this goal, as it provides a cost-effective space to store stock, inventory, and equipment – but that’s not all!

There are many other benefits of business self storage, which you can read about here.

Only rent the space that you need

It’s not unusual for businesses to allocate unnecessary expenses to storage space that they don’t need. At Wigwam Self Storage, our storage facilities in Chipping Norton and Bromsgrove offers a variety of different sizes, ranging from 16 sq ft to 1,000 sq ft, ensuring that you only pay for the amount of space that you need and not a cent more.

Flexible lease agreements

What happens if your need for space changes over time? Instead of being tied to an expensive and long-term lease contract, self storage allows you to upsize or downsize your space as needed, with no extra cost incurred! Whether you need short-term storage or a long-term arrangement, self storage is a fantastic and flexible solution.

Cost-effective solution to commercial warehousing

Retailers, wholesalers and transport businesses allocate a large portion of their budget to warehousing that is often expensive and situated in inconvenient locations with difficult access. Larger self storage units provide businesses with all of the benefits of a warehouse and none of the hassles. 

Wigwam Self Storage offers conveniently located warehousing space in the Chipping Norton and Bromsgrove areas. 

Added security

Did you know that 13% of cargo theft occurs at the facility itself? Wigwam Self Storage  prioritises security, making sure that businesses can store their business stock and inventory with confidence and peace of mind. We offer individually alarmed rooms with PIN controlled access and 24/7 externally monitored CCTV to ensure our customer’s belongings are protected round the clock. 

Downsize office space

Take a moment and consider how much space in the office is used for productive work and how much is used by clutter and unused documents? Self storage allows businesses to downsize their office space and pay less rent by storing unused items in a safe and secure place.

Are you ready to cut business costs? We’ve got a storage unit waiting for you! Contact us at 01608 656 300 to find out more. Alternatively, you can fill out a contact form online and we’ll give you a call back.

As companies slowly return to work post lockdown, social distancing rules means that many will be looking at new ways of conducting business. With the rapidly changing nature of the COVID-19 outbreak, it is still too early to estimate how badly the pandemic will affect the UK economy and over the next few months small business in particular will face a whole range of new challenges. Many can only guess at the impact this will have on their day to day running and with so many new protocols to consider it may even make recovery feel almost impossible.

Business storage

Whilst people were advised not leave their homes for unnecessary journeys, some businesses were no longer able to operate from their usual premises and offices and shops were locked up. Leases and all the associated bills still had to be paid, which left many owners facing the difficult decision whether to keep paying for buildings they were longer using or to move out. Moving in to business storage gives business owners a lower cost alternative to keeping their premises going indefinitely.

Equipment and document storage

If continuing to pay rent on work premises stopped being a viable option for your business, you may have been left wondering where to securely store all of your office furniture, accounts files, machinery and existing stock. Wigwam Self Storage can provide storage solutions for all of your office equipment and documents and can even offer a secure document disposal service.

Man and Van / Van Hire

Our Man and Van service in Chipping Norton can help move your items from your old premises to our storage facility, or you can use the self van hire option for an even more cost effective solution.

Operate from our premises

Wigwam can provide a professional business address and full virtual office services to help you build your business back up again. Many entrepreneurs already use Wigwam as an operational base and this could also be the perfect solution for many local businesses.

For more information on any of our products or services please contact: hello@wigwamstorage.co.uk or call 01608 656 300.

Please note, to protect both our customers and colleagues throughout the coronavirus crisis, we provide PPE and hand sanitizer throughout our facility, however, we can do the check in process on line as well as helping move your goods in using our man and van service so you don’t even need to visit our store.

In addition to our self-storage facilities, Wigwam Storage now offers a man and van service. If you need a hand moving house, moving offices or moving items into self storage, we can help. Our man and van service in Chipping Norton offers competitive pricing from a friendly and reliable team.

Man and van services now available in Chipping Norton

Chipping Norton residents and businesses will be pleased to learn we are now offering a man and van service for the area. Our Chipping Norton Man and Van is ideal for:

We welcome small and large jobs alike. Whether you are moving a whole house, or just moving a few items into self storage, there’s no job too big or small. We’re also equipped to help businesses move to a new location. We know how stressful moving can be, so we aim to make the process as stress-free as possible.

Do I need 1 mover or 2 movers?

When you hire a man and a van team, you will need to decide if you need additional help. If you are unable to help move items, then we would recommend hiring an extra man. This will allow you to sit back, relax and let the 2 man team do all of the heavy lifting.

If you would like to save money, we would recommend hiring a man and van and then helping with the larger items. When you call to book your man and van service, we will talk through your requirements and help you to choose the right service for your needs.

Why choose us?

Our friendly and reliable team can help to take the stress out of moving. Rather than taking multiple trips and trying to fit everything in the back of a car, why not take one trip with the Wigwam Man and Van team?

Moving house is stressful enough without worrying about making multiple trips. By using our man and van service, you can be sure that your items will be transported safely and securely.

If you are moving house but your new home isn’t ready to move into yet, why not combine our man and van service with our self storage facilities? We can help you move items from your old home into a self storage unit until your new home is ready. This can be the perfect solution to help protect your furniture and possessions during home renovations.

Our pricing is very competitive and offers excellent value for money. When you’re moving house or moving offices, you already have enough expenses to worry about. We help to take the stress out of moving by offering a friendly and affordable service.

Our prices are incredibly competitive:

£25 + vat Man & Van Service
£15+ vat Additional Man (subject to requirement)

To book your man and a van in Chipping Norton and the surrounding areas, get in touch with Wigwam Storage today!

Self storage is growing in popularity throughout the UK. While many people think of personal self storage as the main driving force, there are plenty of benefits for commercial customers. Businesses can benefit from self storage containers in many ways, and some of them are pretty unexpected.

We are proud to provide self storage to several businesses in Chipping Norton and the surrounding areas. These are just some of the ways you could make commercial self storage work for you.

Store excess stock

Business owners know that purchasing stock in bulk will allow you to enjoy huge savings and better profit margins. But this only works if you have somewhere to store it. Keeping it in your home is one option, but who wants giant boxes of stock cluttering up their living space?

Business storage allows you to purchase stock in bulk and then keep it safe and secure until you need it. This could give you the confidence to expand your business without the stress of moving to larger premises.

If you require drive up access to your self storage unit, our storage containers in Chipping Norton could be ideal. These converted shipping containers measure 20ft x 8ft, which is about the same size as a large single garage. Starting at just £100 +VAT, these are incredibly cost-effective for business owners in need of secure storage space.

Create a showroom

Leasing a commercial showroom is expensive business. If you run a niche company with lower levels of foot traffic, using a self storage unit as a showroom can be a great way to keep costs down.

A self storage unit might not be the first place you would think to set up your showroom, but it can be incredibly cost-effective. When you want your products to take centre stage, a minimalist storage unit can be ideal. And parking will never be an issue for your customers, so it’s a win-win!

Store large equipment

If you work with large equipment and need a secure place to store it, commercial self storage will offer peace of mind. Large equipment is often expensive and therefore a target to thieves. Rather than storing it at your home, your business premises, or even in your van, commercial self storage is a much safer option.

Storing large equipment with Wigwam Self Storage is easy. With wide corridors and pallet trucks available to help you move items, you can easily access your equipment as required. It could even help to lower your insurance premiums.

Archive storage

Archives are a necessary but inconvenient part of running a business. Every year, your archives will keep expanding, and you may find that you are losing valuable office space as a result. Moving your archives to a commercial self storage unit can help you to regain office space and offer added peace of mind.

You might not need to delve into the archives often, but when you do, you want to know that everything is safe, dry and secure. Keeping your archives separate from your main business premises is also more secure.

Office moves

Moving to a different office will inevitably mean rearranging the furniture. Rather than piling everything into your new office space and feeling overwhelmed, why not break down your move into smaller steps?

Start with the essentials, and keep everything else in a secure storage unit until you have decided if you want or need the extra furniture. And if you are moving to a smaller office, self storage will allow you to hang on to your furniture for the future.

Seasonal business

A florist or chocolatier might see their business boom around Mother’s Day and Valentine’s Day. But a short-term boom in business might not be enough to warrant moving to larger premises. In this situation, you could use a self storage unit to temporarily increase operations.

The space could be used to store excess stock, or you could even use it as your workspace. With flexible leases available, you won’t have to see your profit margins eroded by a permanent premises.

If you’re interested in growing your business with Wigwam Self Storage, get in touch today.

Moving home has got to be one of the most stressful events you will face in your adult life. From the moment you pack the first item in a box, your life is turned upside down. Organising movers, cleaners and essential deliveries can feel like a balancing act. But the good news is there are steps you can take to minimise your stress.

The key to a stress-free move is planning. Once you have a plan in place, you’ll know that everything is going to progress smoothly. And if something unexpected happens, you’ll be better placed to handle it because everything else will be under control. Here are our top tips for keeping stress to a minimum and making sure your move goes smoothly.

1. Accept that it’s a stressful process

While we’d all love for moving to be a fun experience, the upheaval is always going to come with an element of stress. Make peace with the fact that moving house is stressful and then commit to doing everything you can to make it go smoothly. If you’re losing sleep over things that might never even happen, you’re only going to find moving house even harder.

2. Declutter

Do you still have that one box filled with odds and ends from the last time you moved? Moving items that you no longer need is a futile task. Start the moving process by having a declutter. Donate items that you no longer want or need and then try to recycle everything else. If there are items that you don’t really need but you don’t want to get rid of just yet, consider self storage as an interim solution.

3. Organise and pack

Try to pack your items by room and always mark what is in the box before sealing it. When the time comes to unpack your boxes, you will know exactly where everything is and where it needs to be. By organising as you go, you can make light work of unpacking as you won’t be sorting through things at the other end. This can be a great opportunity to declutter if you haven’t already done so.

4. Put items in storage

If you’re downsizing to a smaller place, there is no sense in moving all of your possessions straight away. Get a self storage unit so that you can get non-essential items out of the way while you get settled. Once you have a better idea of how much storage space you have, you can either move things out of your storage unit, or keep the storage unit so that your home doesn’t become too cluttered.

5. Hire professionals

Professional movers will make life so much easier. They will handle all of the heavy lifting and transportation. No more hiring a van and asking friends and family to help you move heavy boxes. With professional movers, such as our man & van service in Chipping Norton, you can sit back and relax on moving day. This will also mean you can get started unpacking straight away as you won’t be exhausted from moving.

6. Pack an “essentials” bag

When you’re moving house, you’ll quickly get used to saying “where on earth is the…” On moving day, make your life a little less stressful by making up a bag of essentials that you can move from one house to the next. This might include tea bags, milk and your favourite mug. Or you might want to include some healthy snacks to keep hunger at bay. Also things like towels, washing up liquid, toilet paper and soap can be useful to have at both properties.

These are just some of the ways you can take some of the stress out of moving house. Remember that the stress won’t last forever and you will soon be settled into your new home.