September 23 2024
Self storage doesn’t have to be complicated, and we’re here to prove that. We’ve outlined everything you need to know: from the benefits of self storage to our Contents Protection Plan, self storage sizes and packing tips.
Self storage doesn’t have to be complicated, and we’re here to prove that. We’ve outlined everything you need to know: from the benefits of self storage to our Contents Protection Plan, self storage sizes and packing tips.
Looking for local storage facilities? Manchester Central and Worsley are your number one choice.
Key Points
- Stores in Manchester Central and Worsley
- Flexible short and long-term storage
- Ideal for homeowners, students and business owners
- Our Contents Protection is specifically designed for self storage
- Extended hours access is available
- 24/7 CCTV to keep your goods secure
- Size estimator helps you visualise your storage needs
- Prices start from £5.50* per week
*Correct as of July 2026 and based on locker space, prices depend on sizing, availability and location.
What Is Self Storage?
Self storage is a flexible, affordable solution for business owners and the general public. If you need extra space, there are plenty of local storage facilities in Manchester.
Benefits of Self Storage
There are big advantages to using local self storage in Manchester.
- Affordability: Our flexible short and long-term storage means you only pay for the time you need, with no long-term tie-ins or hefty exit fees
- Access: Extended access hours are available on request, so you can reach your unit outside standard opening times when it suits you
- Organisation: A dedicated space makes it easy to label, sort and access your belongings – no more hunting through cluttered spare rooms
- Security: 24/7 CCTV and app-controlled access mean your goods are protected around the clock
- Flexibility: Scale up or down as your needs change whether you’re growing a business or downsizing after a house move
Who Needs Self Storage Solutions?
We rent self storage units to business owners, freelancers, artists, homeowners, students… the list goes on. A lot of people within the Greater Manchester area contact us for their storage needs.
Self Storage for Business Owners
Many business owners rent self storage units.
When you’re just starting out, it’s hard to anticipate how much storage space you’ll need. Plus, most traditional office spaces will try to lock you into a six-month or one-year contract. It makes much more sense to sign a flexible contract. Our short and long-term storage options give business owners the opportunity to sense-check their business idea. Once you know that you’re onto a winner and your business begins to grow, you can speak to our team about moving to a bigger unit.
We’ve also covered how e-commerce sellers use self storage to scale their Manchester operations.
Self Storage for Homeowners
Our storage facilities are filled with goods from homeowners all over Manchester.
Moving homes can be stressful at the best of times, but it becomes even more stressful when there’s a delay or chains collapse. In these high-pressure situations, it makes sense to use a storage unit. On top of providing secure storage for your items, our Manchester facilities offer flexible short and long-term storage, so you don’t have to commit for longer than necessary.
If you’re moving to Manchester for the first time, our guide to moving to Manchester covers everything from where to live to how self storage fits into your move.
Self Storage for Students
Students often find themselves in a dilemma: what should they do with their valuables during the summer holidays?
We’ve got everything covered. Read our complete guide: Everything Students Need to Know About Self Storage in Manchester. Or visit our student storage page to find out more.
We have two main locations in Manchester: Manchester Central and Worsley. Manchester Central is just a 15-minute drive from Manchester University, and Worsley is just an extra 5 minutes down the road.
Whether you’re moving between accommodations, heading home for the summer, or simply want somewhere to put your stuff without throwing anything away, a self storage unit is the way to go.
Cost of Self Storage in Manchester
Looking for self storage in Manchester or something a bit further afield? The cost of a self storage unit is determined by several factors including:
- Unit size: Most self storage companies charge by square footage and we’re the same. The larger the square footage, the higher the price will be
- Location: Some locations are more central and in demand than others, which can affect cost
- Length of stay: The longer you store, the better value per week you may find. Our flexibility means you’re never locked in longer than you need to be
Check out our complete guide to Manchester storage unit prices.
Self Storage Unit Sizes
It’s difficult to visualise how much space you might need, especially if you’ve not yet packed your things away into boxes.
We’ve got a size estimator tool to solve this problem.
- 9 sq ft locker:Good for storing a few small boxes – ideal for students or business document archiving
- 25 sq ft unit: Ideal for furniture and goods from a small one-bed flat
- 50 sq ft: Our most popular option, perfect for a one or two-bedroom flat. This unit can comfortably accommodate a double bed, wardrobe, sofa and around 20 boxes
- 75 sq ft: Great for a full family home with multiple beds and sofas
- 100 sq ft: The go-to option for three and four-bedroom houses
Storage Unit Size Guide
Quick Reference
9–15
sq ft
Small Storage Unit
Secure storage for documents, boxes and smaller items you need to access occasionally.
25
sq ft
Studio / Small 1-bed
Conveniently fits the contents of a studio or small 1-bedroom flat, without bulky furniture.
⭐ Most popular
50
sq ft
1–2 Bedroom Flat
Reliably fits a sofa, double bed, wardrobe and around 20 boxes - our most-booked size.
75
sq ft
2–3 Bedroom House
Accessible storage for most contents of a family home, including larger furniture pieces.
100
sq ft
3–4 Bedroom House
Friendly, flexible storage for larger homes - white goods, garden furniture and full room sets.
Helpful tip: Most of our storage units are at least 8ft high - stack your items and furniture to make the most of the height and keep your costs down.
Packing Tips for Self Storage
Packing seems simple enough, right? But plenty of people struggle with this step, making decisions that impact them down the road.
Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Use labels to make your life easier
- Disassemble large furniture where possible
- Use vertical space to make the most of your local self storage facility
Our top ten self storage and packing tips can help you the rest of the way.
Security Measures at Our Manchester Facilities
We have put a lot of security measures in place to keep your goods safe and sound.
- Accredited with the Tick Box scheme, designed in partnership between Trading Standards, IPO and the Self Storage Industry Association UK
- App-controlled access – no physical key needed. We know exactly who enters and exits our Manchester facilities at all times
- 24/7 CCTV monitoring across all locations
Contents Protection Insurance for Manchester Self Storage
Our security systems provide the best protection possible for your goods. But, in the event of theft or unexpected damage, our Contents Protection Plan covers the rest. It’s specifically designed to safeguard goods in self storage.
You can add this plan to your rental, or opt for your own insurance. Some of our customers use their own home insurance, but if you do this, you need to be aware that a lot of home insurance plans don’t cover self storage. And to register your insurance with us, we need a signed letter from your insurance provider.
Your Local Self Storage Facilities in Manchester
Looking for self storage near you? We have two self storage facilities in Manchester.
Manchester Central Self Storage
Location: Willerby Rd, Manchester M8 9YG
Google Maps: Ready Steady Store Manchester Central
what3words: ///arena.radio.poker
Manchester Central is perfect for homeowners, business owners and students who are close to the centre of the city.
- A 5-minute drive from Victoria Train Station
- A 10-minute drive from Manchester Piccadilly Train Station
- A 15-minute drive from Manchester University
Worsley Self Storage
Location: 30 Shield Drive, Worsley, Manchester, M28 2QB
Google Maps: Ready Steady Store Worsley
what3words location: ///wage.call.wallet
Worsley is just outside the city centre, meaning it’s often less in demand than Manchester Central. Demand is one of the factors that can impact the cost of your unit.
Worsley is:
- A 20-minute drive from Manchester Piccadilly Train Station
- A 25-minute drive from Victoria Train Station
- A 25-minute drive from Manchester University
Which Location Should I Choose?
There are advantages to both locations depending on what you need. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Manchester Central | Worsley | |
|---|---|---|
| Distance from Piccadilly | 10-minute drive | 20-minute drive |
| Best for | City workers, students, regular access | House moves, bulky items, value |
| Drive-up access | Yes | Yes |
| Seasonal demand | Higher, can affect price | Lower, often more availability |
| Parking | Yes | Yes |
You can find a full comparison of our Manchester storage facilities in our dedicated guide.
Why Choose Ready Steady Store for Self Storage Solutions
We provide Feefo Platinum Rated customer service to homeowners, business owners and students from all over Manchester. People choose us because they know they’re getting excellent customer service, flexible short and long-term storage that fits around their schedule, Contents Protection and friendly faces.
The unlimited extended hours access and exclusive van hire with Enterprise are a nice touch, too.
Expert View
“Our self storage facilities in Manchester Central and Worsley offer an unbeatable level of flexibility. In recent years, there’s been a rise in online business owners using self storage units to scale their businesses. Ready Steady Store offers a comprehensive, flexible self storage service. The 24/7 CCTV, friendly staff and built-in Contents Protection mean that protecting their valuables is as easy as possible.”
— Darren Nightingale, Area Manager at Ready Steady Store Manchester Central
Frequently Asked Self Storage Questions
Can I Store Important Documents in Self Storage in Manchester?
Yes. Like all our stores, Manchester Central and Worsley are fitted with 24/7 CCTV and app-controlled access. We put plenty of safeguards in place so that you can store with confidence.
What Can I Store in a Manchester Self Storage Unit?
You can store most household and business items, including furniture, clothing, business stock, books, white goods and seasonal items.
There are a few things we can’t store for safety and legal reasons:
- Hazardous materials: toxic or flammable chemicals, compressed gas cylinders and explosives
- Living things: animals or plants
- Illegal goods: unlicensed weapons, stolen goods or drugs
For more details, please contact us as the above is a guide and does not cover everything. If you’re unsure about a specific item, call us on 0800 321 3211 and our team will be happy to help.
Can I Use Self Storage If I’m a Business Owner?
Yes, all kinds of business owners use local self storage in Manchester.
E-commerce sellers use our self storage to scale. Businesses rent a small unit, and when they need more space for stock, they upscale to a larger unit. Online businesses really benefit from this sort of flexibility.
Can I Come and See the Unit Myself?
Yes. Our friendly teams at Manchester Central and Worsley will be happy to show you around. Or, if you want to visualise what size unit you might need right now, check out our size estimator.
When Can I Access My Self Storage Unit?
Every location has standard opening hours and an extended access option. Manchester Central is open for access from 6:00 AM until 10:00 PM. If you need to come and go outside of those hours, we also offer 24/7 extended access, you’ll need to meet our requirements to qualify, which keeps the security of the store our main priority.
Find Your Perfect Self Storage Unit in Manchester
Whether you’re a homeowner between moves, a student heading home for the summer or a business owner looking for flexible space to grow, Ready Steady Store has a unit to suit you.
With locations at Manchester Central and Worsley, flexible short and long-term storage options, and units from 9 to 300 sq ft, getting started is straightforward.
Use our size estimator to find the right fit or get an instant online quote today.
