For many people in Perth, moving into a self-storage unit can be a daunting experience. Whether you are between homes, renovating, or running out of space for business stock, the idea of relocating belongings into a new environment raises numerous questions.

On Strathtay Road, with prominent frontage to Crieff Road on the A85, plans are underway for Scotland’s first modular self-storage park. The site will use Strongholds™ drive-up units, designed with durability, insulation, and easy access in mind. Ahead of launch, here’s a practical guide to help you prepare for moving into your first self-storage unit.

What is a Self Storage Unit?

A self-storage unit is a secure, rented space where you can store belongings that don’t fit at home or work. In Perth, Strongholds™ will be available in three sizes:

– X11 (40 sq ft): Compact, ideal for students, renters, or seasonal gear.
– X10 (80 sq ft): Mid-sized, perfect for families, tradespeople, or small businesses.
– X7 (160 sq ft): Large, equivalent to a 20ft container footprint but purpose-built for storage.

Strongholds™ are different from repurposed containers. With galvanised steel, reinforced bracing, and aerogel insulation, they are built to protect belongings in Perth’s unpredictable weather while offering direct vehicle access to each unit.

Step 1: Decide What to Store

Before you start packing, make an inventory list. This simple step will:
– Keep track of everything in your unit.
– Help with insurance claims if needed.
– Highlight what should be stored, sold, donated, or recycled.

By filtering your belongings early, you make better use of your rented space and avoid paying for storage you don’t need.

Step 2: Choose the Right Unit Size

Getting the size right is crucial. Too small, and you risk cramming items unsafely. Too large, and you pay for wasted space.

Tips for choosing:
– Assess bulky items like furniture and appliances first.
– Think vertically, units are tall so that you can stack boxes safely.
– Plan for future needs. Renting slightly larger at the start may save hassle later.
– Visit the facility once it opens to get a feel for the dimensions before you decide.

Step 3: Prepare Your Items for Storage

Preparation protects your belongings and saves you stress in the future.

Clean everything first. This helps prevent mould, odours, and mildew. Make sure items are dehydrated.

Pack carefully. Use strong boxes, bubble wrap, and covers. Stack uniform boxes neatly and avoid overloading them. Disassemble larger furniture where possible.

Label clearly. Mark each box with a short description. Consider a master list to keep track of everything.

The time invested here pays off when you can easily find what you need months later.

Step 4: Organise Your Unit

The way you set up your unit affects how easily it can be used.

– Plan the layout. Keep frequently used items near the front.
– Create a walkway down the middle so you can reach the back without shifting everything.
– Use shelving to make the most of vertical space.
– Place heavy boxes at the bottom and lighter items on top.

With Strongholds™, wide drive-up aisles make loading simple. You can park your vehicle directly outside your unit and arrange it logically from day one.

Step 5: Maintain Your Unit

Self-storage is not just about moving in; it is about keeping things accessible and organised over time.

– Visit occasionally to rotate seasonal items or check what you have stored.
– Keep the unit tidy by sweeping out dust or debris.
– Reorganise when you add or remove belongings so everything stays easy to reach.
– Review your inventory list every few months to make sure it still reflects what is inside.

With Strongholds, aerogel insulation and digital access systems maintain stable and secure conditions. Still, regular visits ensure you always know exactly what is in your unit and how it is arranged.

Why Location Matters in Perth

Research shows most storage users want a unit within 20 minutes of home. For city residents, convenience is even more critical. The Strathtay Road site, with direct access to Crieff Road and the A85, places storage at one of Perth’s busiest gateways.

For households in Letham, Tulloch, Muirton, or the city centre, and businesses travelling from Inveralmond, this location makes storage an integral part of daily life, not a long detour.

FAQs

Do I need insurance?
Yes. Storage facilities typically require insurance, making it a sensible step to protect your belongings. At Perth Storage Units, you have the option to arrange cover directly through our website or use your provider if you prefer.

What size should I choose for moving into a new house?
The X7 (160 sq ft) is designed for whole-home moves. Smaller Strongholds™ (X11 or X10) are suitable for flats, smaller homes, or partial moves.

How do I access my unit?
Strongholds™ use digital locks with PIN or app access. Once operational, you will be able to come and go without relying on keys or staff handovers.

What kind of contracts do you offer?
All units will be available on simple month-to-month terms with no deposits and no hidden fees. You will only pay for the space you need, for as long as you need it.

Conclusion

Moving into your first self-storage unit doesn’t have to be daunting. With a clear plan, the right size unit, and careful preparation, you will find the process straightforward and stress-free.

Perth’s new modular storage park on Strathtay Road will introduce purpose-built Strongholds to the city, providing secure, insulated, and easily accessible space for households and businesses alike.

Planning is still in progress. Once permission is secured, a launch list will open for early reservations. In the meantime, please check the Perth Storage Units website for updates and guidance.