Cultural Impact of Self Storage Over Time

Posted on 19 October 2023 | 4 minute read

modern self storage

Australia’s self storage industry is experiencing a boom due to population increase, shrinking living spaces, e-commerce, and consumerism. With personal storage spaces becoming so widespread, the industry is bound to have a cultural impact on society. This article will explore how self-storage has become an integral feature of modern life, the rise of the lock-and-leave culture, and the impact of self storage on Australian culture.

The Rise of Self-Storage Culture

The self-storage culture is transforming how people approach their storage needs. Its convenience and flexibility have given birth to a lock-and-leave culture. Personal storage clients can easily rent a storage unit, pack it with their belongings or business stock, and then leave it for however long they need, confident that their items are in safe hands.

Once belongings are safely stored, the personal units can be accessed at will (within the limits set by the storage facility, and the need for further interaction with staff is minimal. The ease with which self-storage can be procured and managed has created a cultural shift in how people manage their belongings.

The industry has become a practical solution for many Australians, with the units regularly used for downsizing a home or business, long-term renovations, moving, divorce, or temporary storage of a deceased estate. Whether they are going through significant life transitions, dealing with shrinking living spaces, or are a business needing a cheaper storage solution over commercial rents, self-storage is having a profound impact on Australian life.
Cultural Impact of Self Storage

Self Storage and Its Impact on the Economy and Society

The self-storage industry has had a significant impact on both the economy and society in Australia. Every year, the industry creates thousands of new employment opportunities, from property management to security.

Long and prosperous careers are available in the personal storage industry, including managing and maintaining self-storage facilities and ancillary services such as truck and trailer rental, packing materials and accessories, and removalist services.

The technology and software sectors also benefit from the growth of personal storage because software developers are required to create and maintain booking systems, payment systems, and portals for online customer interactions.

The industry boosts employment opportunities in the security sectors as customers seek peace of mind in storage services that use robust security systems like keypads, keycard entry systems, and sophisticated round-the-clock CCTV surveillance systems. This employment growth in a wide array of industries contributes to economic development with income and tax revenue-generating jobs.

On a societal level, self-storage has improved living spaces by decluttering homes and apartments, allowing for a more organized and comfortable living environment while helping keep thousands of disposable items out of landfills.
Self-storage presents small and medium enterprises with more economical options for reducing expenses. A moderately sized storage unit provides a business with a much cheaper storage option than an on-site storeroom or warehouse.

This allows the business to reduce its monthly rental commitment without sacrificing its ability to securely store bulk-buy items or seasonal stock until needed.

Self storage frees up funds for thousands of small businesses, which they can use to expand their operations and hire more staff to further stimulate the Australian economy.

Cultural Impact of Self Storage Over Time

Future Outlook

As the self-storage industry continues to evolve, innovations and services are emerging to meet the changing needs of Australians. One such service is mobile and portable storage solutions, available as high-quality shipping containers.

This convenient and flexible storage option allows individuals and businesses to securely store their belongings on their property or at a designated storage facility. The cultural impact of such storage services is immense, as it provides control over your belongings while benefiting from off site storage’s convenience.

The storage industry will continue to expand and innovate, with services like mobile and portable storage significantly shaping our storage habits and lifestyles.

If you are looking for self storage with more options, contact 1800 We Store It today for a quick quote and professional advice. Our specialised service is available with add-on extras like removalists and packing services to make your storage challenges as hassle-free as possible.