Self Storage for Tradesmens Tools & Equipment
Why Tradespeople from Builders, Plumbers to Carpenters use Need A Space Self Storage:
When it comes to tool and equipment storage, there’s no time to mess about. Whether you’re a sole trader, small or medium business, keeping tools and equipment safe should be at the top of your to-do list.
Not only are they expensive to replace but if a tool is broken or stolen, you may also lose out on potential business. That raises the question of where (and how) to store your tools when not in use so here we look at some simple tool storage advice and how Need A Space can help.
Self Storage for Tools and Equipment for all Tradespeople:
As a tradesman, you need your tools with you at all times, or at least in a secure and easily accessible location. If you were to rent business premises, you are likely going to use it mostly for tool storage and that’s not always cost effective.
You are better off renting a self storage unit as the cost is low and easily accessible which makes it incredibly convenient. A self storage facility can essentially help you save on rental fees, property insurance and staffing costs. It offers the ideal solution for all your tool storage needs as you can keep dirty work tools out of the house while giving you easy access as needed. If you choose a storage facility you can even use it as a halfway point of sorts. Here’s how it can work for you.
How Self Storage Can Help When Storing Tools And Equipment:
One of the biggest concerns for tradesmen is storing and transporting tools and equipment but self storage offers a unique solution. Whilst you may not need heavy equipment or loads of tools for every job, what happens when you do?
Many tradespeople simply keep everything in their van but that can be very risky. Even if you lock your van, install an alarm and have the necessary tradesman liability insurance in place, there is always a chance of would-be thieves getting their hands on your expensive tools and equipment.
If you rent a dedicated storage unit, all your tools will stay dry and safe no matter what. You can keep heavy and expensive equipment in the storage unit until you need them and only carry what you most often use in your van. This means there’s a smaller load on your van and less money spent on fuel.
Benefits Of A Storage Unit for tools and equipment:
All types of tradespeople need specific tools, equipment and parts, such as pipes, fittings and other items. Having your own tool storage unit filled with everything you most often need can make your life a lot easier. Here are some of the main benefits of a storage unit:
It provides 24-hour security (and peace of mind).
You can store more items than at home or in the van It helps avoid running out of parts and being unable to finish a job.
Limits back-and-forth trips to DIY stores and merchants to find what you are looking for.
Employees can get access to your self storage unit so they can get stock whenever they need to and Units with drive-up access make storing heavy or bulky items much easier.
Collect or drop off stock and equipment between jobs, before or after work.
Knowing what you need and what you want to store beforehand is important to keep your business operations running smoothly. Different tools may need different types of boxes, containers, shelves or pegboard. Depending on the item and storage conditions, resealable plastic containers are typically better but you can also use sturdy, good quality cardboard.
Important tips for tool storage and a few things you can do to keep your space more organised:
Create an inventory for different tools and sort them according to category and ideally use a tool storage cabinet with pegboard backing.
Hang baskets or containers on hooks or even arrange some racking for your storage unit.
Maximise vertical tool storage space with wall strips.
Invest in a mobile workbench.
Use the excess space on the end of cabinets or shelves.
Keep nuts and bolts and all smaller parts in clear large jars.
Ideas For Temporarily Keeping Your Tools Safe In Your Car or Van:
Even if you have a storage unit, there are times you don’t have a choice but to keep things in your car. However, there are a few things you can do to keep everything as safe as possible:
Park in well-lit areas with CCTV coverage.
Tint your windows, install an alarm and an immobiliser if not factory fitted.
Display stickers showing that ‘no tools are left in this van overnight’ although thieves still smash a window or peel back a door just to check.
Make sure you have proof of what has been stolen by taking a photo of the van’s fully laden contents which will make an insurance claim much easier.
Take out separate tool insurance which is often easier to claim against and comes with lower excess than van insurance or save on the cost by using storage.
Why Choose Need A Space for your Self Storage
Need A Space is conveniently located just off the A2 between Canterbury and Faversham. Operated by a family run friendly team and the lowest storage rates around. With the latest in high tech security and all our units at ground floor level we have made the process as easy as possible. Contact us on 01227 751673 and find out more.
