Pallet storage unit for local businesses

Local importers, tradies, wholesalers, market traders and small shops that have outgrown their garage or shopfront storage.

A monthly fee per pallet space, plus handling fees for goods in and out. Extras like short-term overflow storage or after-hours pickups can add to this. A small unit holds a limited number of pallets, so income depends on how full it is and what local storage providers charge per pallet.

• Organised and good with records
• Safe lifting and pallet handling
• Reliable, trustworthy customer service

• Check the lease terms and that council zoning allows storage and customer deliveries at the unit, and ask your council whether you need any approval for the use
• Check what insurance you need, such as public liability and cover for customers' goods while in your care
• If you plan to operate a forklift, you need a high risk work licence issued under your state or territory's WHS regulator; a manual pallet jack does not need one, but check with your regulator
• Fire safety and rules on what goods you can store, and avoid dangerous goods unless properly approved
• A long lease is a fixed cost even if customers leave, so try to start small

Startup costs are typically around $20,000 to $70,000, depending on the unit you lease, the racking and equipment you buy, and your insurance. These are estimates, and a long lease is a fixed cost, so try to start small.

Monthly revenue is typically around $2,000 to $8,000, depending on how many pallet spaces you fill and what you charge local businesses. This is an estimate, not a guaranteed income, and customers can leave while your lease continues.

Check your lease and that council zoning allows storage and customer deliveries, and ask about any approvals. If you plan to use a forklift, check high risk work licence rules with your WHS regulator. Also check insurance, fire safety and dangerous goods rules.