Self-storage container yard
Rent out secure storage containers on a small yard to households and local traders.
- £15k-75k
- Side hustle
- Own premises
Estimates for a small start in the UK, not guarantees.
Official data
8,700 UK companies in this field, 31% registered in the last 2 years
SIC 52103 “Operation of warehousing and storage facilities for land transport activities”. Source: Companies House, November 2026.
What it is
A small secure site, rented or owned, with steel containers that people hire by the month to store furniture, tools, stock or belongings. You handle the gate, locks, security and bookings.
Your first three steps
- Look at nearby storage sites to compare prices and see how full they are, then shortlist a few possible yards
- Ask the landowner and your local council planning team whether storage use is allowed on the site
- Price up containers, fencing, lighting and CCTV, and set up a simple website with online enquiries
Who pays
People moving house, downsizing or renovating, plus tradespeople, market traders and small businesses needing extra space.
How it makes money
Monthly rent per container, with larger sizes costing more. Income builds as more containers are let, with extra from lock sales or insurance add-ons.
Skills that help
- Organising and record keeping
- Customer service
- Basic marketing and local advertising
- Managing a property or site
Watch out for
- Planning permission or change of use may be needed, check with your local council before committing to land
- Business rates may apply to the site, check with the council or the Valuation Office Agency
- Insurance for the site, the containers and public liability, and be clear on whether customers' goods are covered
- Terms and conditions covering banned items such as hazardous goods and what happens if rent is unpaid
- Security and break-in risk, plus the upfront cost of containers and groundwork
🔒 Full research report for UK
Real cost breakdown with current prices, licences and registration checklist, local competition, pricing, break-even and a 30-day launch plan, with sources.
Coming soonQuestions people ask
How much does it cost to start a container storage yard?
Startup costs are estimated at typically around £15,000 to £75,000, depending on the land, number of containers and groundwork. Security and insurance for the site, containers and public liability should be budgeted for too.
How much can a self-storage container yard earn?
Monthly revenue is typically estimated at around £1,000 to £5,000, depending on how many containers you rent out and your local rates. Check business rates for the site with the council or the Valuation Office Agency.
Do I need planning permission for a container yard?
Check whether planning permission or change of use is needed with your local council before committing to land. Also check business rates, insurance and your terms and conditions, including banned items such as hazardous goods and what happens if rent is unpaid.
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