Benefits Of Self-Storage Units For E-Commerce Businesses

Posted on: 16 June 2020

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If you are an entrepreneur looking to start or expand your e-commerce business, you must plan out stocking and storage in advance. It isn't uncommon for business owners to house some of their stocks in their homes; however, this leads your products more susceptible to damage and breakage and can be highly encumbering. In the eventuality of lengthy out-of-stock periods due to poor storage arrangements, most e-commerce businesses are likely to lose substantial income and several customers. Here are a few ways in which having a storage unit may improve your retail operations.

Cheaper Than Viable Alternatives

As your business expands, stocks will need to increase to match the growing demand. Beyond housing those stocks of products in your garage — leaving them prone to humidity damage and potentially exposing you to theft — a popular storage option is often erecting your own brick and mortar warehouse. While investing in an intelligent warehousing system is an e-commerce competitive advantage accessible to large businesses, it is almost an impossible feat for medium and small-sized enterprises.  

On a self-storage unit, you will not be required to tackle the additional expenditure (salaries for employees and security, electricity bills and fixture installations) having your own warehouse entails. You will also be able to plan your spending according to seasonal demand, contracting the storage unit for a few months where needed and handing back the keys during off-seasons. Self-storage units are also located in non-industrial areas, which feature lower rent costs than warehousing may.  

Security And Add-Ons

Facilities offering storage units are often equipped with state-of-the-art security system installations, complete with CCTV cameras, burglar alarms and respondent teams. They will have entry protocols that guarantee only the owners or contractors of the storage unit can access it, which can decrease insurance costs and eliminate the fear of stock loss as the result of theft.

Storage facilities also have personnel often willing to provide add-ons, such as collecting your stock upon its arrival or offering you office space on short notice. Some storage facilities offer delivery services, complete with smart communication systems (apps and emails) to inform you of the arrival of your products, and even perform basic quality checks.

A Concluding Word

A storage-unit is the practical, cost-efficient and safe solution for storing your e-commerce outlet's products. They ensure your stocks are out of harm's way and kept in ideal conditions to maintain their state upon delivery. Most storage unit providers will be happy to work with you on an arrangement facilitating your operations, such as collecting deliveries and organising stocks.  

For more tips, reach out to a local storage facility.