Unlocking Space: The Boom of Self-Storage Warehouses
In recent years, self-storage facilities have gained significant traction among individuals and businesses alike. This surge in popularity can be attributed to various factors that cater to the evolving needs of a modern lifestyle. As urban living spaces shrink and the demand for flexible storage solutions increases, self-storage options are becoming essential for many.
Urbanization and Space Constraints
As urban areas continue to expand, living spaces are becoming more compact. People often find themselves in need of extra storage as they downsize or relocate to more densely populated areas. Self-storage facilities provide a practical solution by offering additional space for seasonal items, furniture, or personal belongings that do not fit in a smaller living environment. This trend is particularly noticeable among city dwellers who seek to maximize their limited space.
Convenience and Accessibility
One of the primary reasons for the rise of self-storage facilities is the convenience they offer. With locations often strategically placed near residential and commercial areas, accessing stored items has never been easier. Many facilities provide 24/7 access, allowing customers to retrieve or store belongings at their convenience. This flexibility appeals to busy individuals and growing businesses that require immediate access to inventory or equipment.
Security and Peace of Mind
Modern self-storage facilities prioritize security, providing peace of mind to customers. With features such as surveillance cameras, gated access, alarms and individual access codes users can trust that their belongings are safe.
A Solution for Businesses
Businesses have also embraced self-storage as a strategic move to manage inventory and supplies efficiently. Whether it's small businesses looking to store equipment or larger enterprises needing temporary space during transitions, self-storage facilities offer a cost-effective and flexible alternative to traditional warehousing.
The Selfstorage Market in Belgium
In Belgium, the self-storage market consists of four major operators: Shurgard, Lock’O, Safestore, and Storo, along with several smaller local providers.
CBRE has identified over 60 self-storage locations covering approximately 165,000 m² of warehouse space. The average self-storage warehouse is around 3,000 m², divided into units ranging from 1 m² to 50 m².
Rental prices vary primarily based on location and size. Typically, storage units in city locations are more expensive, and smaller units cost more per square meter than larger ones. For instance, a small 2 m² storage box may cost between €400 and €600 per m² per year, whereas a larger 15 m² self-storage unit is significantly cheaper, ranging from €200 to €400 per m² per year.
The main players in Belgium
Shurgard is the largest player in Belgium, and has its locations well distributed all over Belgium. With 20 locations and 92,000 m², it also has the largest selfstorage locations at 4,600 m² on average.
Lock’O has been active in the Belgian market since 2012, and counts some 16 locations on a total of 40,000 m². Lock’O is mainly active in Wallonia.
Safestore counts 4 selfstorage warehouses, occupying some 10,000 m² of warehouses.
Storo is the youngest selfstorage specialist in Belgium and has opened 3 selfstorage locations with 2 more opening in 2025.
Understanding the Costs of Operating a Self-Storage Facility
For entrepreneurs looking to capitalize on the self-storage trend, understanding the associated costs is crucial.
The main expenses involved in operating a self-storage facility include land acquisition or warehouse rental costs and potential construction or renovation expenses. Land costs can vary greatly depending on the location, with urban areas generally commanding higher prices than rural ones.
When it comes to creating the storage box units, the expenses can differ based on the size and features of the units. The interior fit-out includes costs for walls, flooring, lighting, and security features, all tailored to create functional and appealing storage spaces.
In addition to construction and rental costs, self-storage operators must consider ongoing expenses such as maintenance, utilities, insurance, and marketing. Operational expenses also encompass staff salaries if employees are hired. Furthermore, technology investments, such as management software and online payment systems, can enhance operational efficiency but also add to the initial costs.
Innovative Services Transforming Self-Storage
As the self-storage landscape evolves, new trends are emerging that cater to modern consumer demands. One such trend is the introduction of services that enhance the overall user experience. For instance, companies like Boxify and Box@Home are revolutionizing the self-storage model by integrating transportation services into their offerings.
Boxify provides a truck service that picks up and delivers stored items within 48 hours, ensuring that customers can retrieve their belongings with minimal hassle. This on-demand access to stored goods caters to the fast-paced lifestyles of today’s consumers, making self-storage not only a solution for excess items but also a flexible resource for urgent needs.
On the other hand, Box@Home offers small mobile storage containers that can be delivered directly to your home. This service allows individuals to load their belongings at their own pace, without the pressure of a time constraint. Once packed, the containers are picked up and transported to a larger warehouse for secure storage.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the increasing popularity of self-storage facilities signifies a rising demand for flexible storage solutions. With convenient accessibility, improved security features, and innovative services tailored to modern lifestyles, self-storage is now seen as a strategic necessity rather than just a temporary fix. In Belgium, the presence of major operators alongside new entrants underscores the growing importance of this sector.
