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What Is Self Storage & How Does It Work?

Everything You Need to Know

Need more space at home? Expanding your business? Heading home from university for the summer? Whatever your reason, self storage offers a simple, safe and affordable solution.

At Portland Self Storage, we work with homeowners, businesses, tradespeople, and students across Sheffield and its surroundings to provide flexible container storage for everything from furniture and tools to stock and textbooks.

Find the answers to common questions like what is self storage, how safe is self storage, and how to rent a storage container, plus tips for getting the most out of your unit—whether you’re storing for a few weeks or long term.

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What Is Self Storage?

Self storage is a secure and flexible way to store your belongings away from home or work. You rent a lockable container or unit, bring your items to the site, and access them when needed.

At Portland Self Storage, we provide steel storage containers in a secure, gated location—perfect for:

  • Homeowners needing extra space during a move or renovation

  • Businesses storing tools, stock, or archive documents

Students who need to store belongings during university breaks

young men putting boxed in a storage container

How Does Self Storage Work?

Self storage is simple—and with Portland Self Storage, it’s stress-free:

  1. Choose Your Container Size – Need help estimating how much space you need? Take a look at our Container Size Guide or contact our friendly team, we’re happy to advise based on your belongings.
  2. Reserve Online or Give Us a Call – No Payment Upfront
    Use our online form or speak to a member of our team to book your container.
    Note: You won’t be charged until your move-in day, and cancellations are free any time before.
  3. Complete Your Online ID Check – After booking, you’ll receive a link to complete an online ID check. This must be completed before your move-in date.
  4. Call to Arrange Key Collection – You’ll need to bring your ID and sign your rental contract in person when collecting your keys.
  5. Move In When You’re Ready – Load your container at your own pace—no time pressure and no appointments needed. Our site has drive-up access, so there’s no need to carry boxes far.
  6. Access Anytime – Visit during our access hours and come and go as needed.
  7. Store for as Long as You Need – Short or long term, our flexible contracts work around your plans.
A grid of sixteen security camera screenshots showing various outdoor locations. The footage includes parking lots, construction areas, rooftops, and alleys, mostly uninhibited and featuring parked cars and some building materials.

How Safe Is Self Storage?

Security matters—whether you’re storing business inventory or personal belongings.

At Portland Self Storage, we provide:

  • 24/7 CCTV Monitoring
  • Secure Gated Entrance with Keypad Access
  • Wind- and Water-Tight Steel Containers
  • Free Heavy-Duty Padlock for Every Booking
  • On-site staff checks and support
  • Optional insurance (Protection Cover) available

You can rest easy knowing your possessions are in safe hands.

Why Choose Portland Self Storage in Sheffield?

  • 📍 Convenient Location in Handsworth
    Just minutes from the M1—easy access for Sheffield, Rotherham, and surrounding areas.
  • 💰 Discounted Rates
     Get 50% off your first two months – great value for both short- and long-term use.
  • 🚚 Drive-Up Access
     Pull right up to your container for easy loading and unloading—no trolleys or lifts needed.
  • 📦 Brand New, Clean Units
     Store your belongings in top-quality containers designed to protect against moisture, dust, and pests.
  • 📆 Open Daily
     Access your storage when it suits you.
A small black car parked in an outdoor storage facility, surrounded by rows of blue shipping containers on both sides. Trees are visible in the background under a partly cloudy sky.

FAQs About Self Storage

Do I pay weekly or monthly?

The rent is payable monthly, on the date that you move in. So if you move in on the 18th of a month, then the rent is payable upfront, with your next rent payable on the 18th of the following month.

No – you won’t be charged until your move-in day. 

Yes, you can cancel any time before your move-in date at no cost. After that, we ask for at least 24 hours’ notice before your next billing period to avoid being charged.

Yes, you can cancel any time before your move-in date at no cost. After that, we ask for at least 24 hours’ notice before your next billing period to avoid being charged.

Almost anything! Household items, business stock, tools, furniture, sports equipment, and more. However, you cannot store perishable items, illegal goods, or hazardous materials.

Site access is available 7am to 7pm, seven days a week (24/7 access is available on request).

No, but we offer optional Protection Cover which provides compensation up to the full new replacement value of your stored items. If you choose not to take Protection Cover, you must ensure you have your own insurance in place.

Absolutely. You can use multiple containers as your storage needs grow.

While we don’t move items ourselves, we can recommend reliable local removal companies if needed.

Ready to Rent Your Storage Container?

Whether you’re a student, homeowner, or business owner, Portland Self Storage in Sheffield offers secure, accessible and affordable storage.

Create a Booking or call us today on 0114 400 0114 to get started.

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