Self storage in the Netherlands: How it works and costs

Self storage in the Netherlands offers a flexible way to temporarily or long-term rent extra space for storing goods. Individuals, students, and business clients use it to efficiently organize homes, offices, or project spaces. This can be particularly useful during a move, renovation, or for temporarily storing business inventory and archival materials. Unlike a fixed storage space or a commercial building, self storage allows you to rent exactly the amount of space you need for the period that suits you.

In this article, you will discover how self storage works, the types of storage available, the main cost factors, and how to choose the right size. We also discuss practical aspects such as access, security, hygiene, insurance, contracts, and organization tips, such as labeling and making an inventory. Finally, we look at alternatives such as full-service storage, and provide advice on choosing a location, for example in Amsterdam, covering aspects such as travel time, accessibility, and price.

What is self storage?

Self storage is a customer-managed storage service where you rent a locked unit that you can arrange and manage yourself. You can bring items in and retrieve them during the facility’s opening hours, and you decide how to organize your unit. The main difference with full-service storage is who does the work: in self storage, you manage transport and handling yourself, while in full-service storage, the company manages the logistics for you, but you have limited direct access.

The concept originated in the United States in the 1950s and spread to Europe due to changes in mobility and housing needs. You can store many different items, such as furniture, clothing, electronic equipment, and business inventory. Prohibited items include perishable products, flammable substances, drugs, and non-operational vehicles. Living, sleeping, or holding workshops in the units is also not permitted.

Insurance is usually required or strongly recommended. Often, you can extend your existing contents insurance or take out a policy through the storage company. This ensures protection against damage caused by fire, theft, or water. Choosing a reliable and secure location is of course the most important precaution to reduce risks.

When is self storage helpful?

Self storage is useful for anyone who temporarily needs extra space, often as a buffer during changes in life or work. Common scenarios include:

Moving or temporary housing: temporarily storing items to facilitate the transition between old and new homes
Renovation or remodeling: keeping furniture, appliances, and flooring safely outside the home
Seasonal storage: storing winter tires, Christmas decorations, or sports equipment in an organized manner
Business use: temporarily storing e-commerce inventory, archives, tools, or promotional materials
Collectors and furniture storage: safely storing art, collections, or antiques without taking up space at home

Advantages include only paying for the space you use, rental often being cheaper than commercial storage, and contracts being short and flexible. For example, a family with a two-week overlap between homes can temporarily rent a mini-storage, or a small company can store extra inventory during peak season without a long-term commitment. In this way, self storage offers practical and cost-efficient solutions for various situations.

How does self storage work?

The process for self storage is generally straightforward and simple:

Choose the right unit size and type (indoor, garage, container)
Reserve online, by email, or by phone
Bring your items with a moving van, trailer, or trolley to your unit
Pay monthly invoices, including the deposit, and review contract terms for termination or extension

On arrival, the site is often easily accessible, with sufficient maneuvering space and free tools such as hand trucks or pallets. Good preparation always helps: make an inventory list, label boxes, stack them if sturdy for optimal airflow, and check if electricity is available for lighting or electrical tools. By following this process carefully, your storage remains efficient and organized, minimizing the risk of damage or loss.

What are the different types of self storage?

Self storage comes in three main forms, each with its own characteristics regarding price, accessibility, and protection:

Indoor storage units: located indoors, clean, dry, often climate-controlled; ideal for furniture, archives, and electronics
Garage units: drive-up access, easy loading/unloading, suitable for heavy or large items and vehicles; sometimes equipped with electricity
(Mobile) storage containers: delivered to your home (3 or 6 meters), arranged at your own pace, collected or stored on-site; convenient for renovations or temporary projects

Important criteria for choosing a suitable self storage solution include cleanliness, climate control, electricity, access hours, security, price, and location. The right type depends on the nature of the items being stored, as some may be sensitive to moisture or cold. How often you need access and practical logistics are also important factors.

Storage boxes (indoor units)

Indoor units are located inside a building and are available in multiple sizes. They are generally clean, dry, and provide a stable climate, which is important for furniture, archives, and electronics. Some units are specifically climate-controlled, which is necessary for art, documents, or sensitive equipment.

Access is usually via a PIN or reception during opening hours. Loading aids such as hand trucks and lifts may be available. If you need lighting or want to use small electrical tools, check if your unit provides electricity.

Security for an indoor unit usually consists of monitoring inside the building, CCTV, and locks on the units. This type of unit is ideal for individuals and businesses who want to protect valuable items and maintain full control over their storage space. As with many other storage options, insurance is required or strongly recommended.

Garage boxes

Garage units are externally located units with drive-up access, making it easy to load and unload heavy or large items. They vary in size and door type, and some are equipped with electricity. They are suitable for tools, business inventory, active vehicles (not non-operational vehicles), and project-based storage.

Garage units are secured with sturdy locks, CCTV, and site surveillance. Make sure you understand beforehand to what extent you are responsible for providing a proper lock for your garage unit. If you want to store a vehicle long-term in the unit, minimize fire risk by removing fuel from the vehicle after parking it. Always check the rental price, deposit, and access hours with the provider.

Garage units combine convenience with the ability to efficiently store larger or heavier items, while still being flexible and secure.

(Mobile) storage containers at home

Storage containers are available in 3- or 6-meter versions, which you can fill at your own pace. Depending on the service and regulations, they can remain at the site or at your home.

They are ideal for renovations, temporary projects, or limited transport options. Pay attention to sufficient placement space, a stable surface, and accessibility for a truck. If you do not have enough space on your property, contact the municipality to check whether the container can extend onto the street or be placed in a parking spot.

Home delivery containers often incur additional costs, including delivery/pick-up, daily or weekly rental, and supplementary insurance. Both private individuals and businesses can benefit from this storage solution at home. You always have access to your belongings without needing to travel back and forth to a storage facility.

What are the costs of renting self storage?

The costs of self storage consist of several components that together determine how much you pay monthly. First, there is the rental price of the unit itself, which depends on size, type of storage, and amenities. See below the average monthly rental price per self-storage type in the Netherlands:

Storage unit: €22 / m² / month
Garage box: €12 / m² / month
Storage container: €11 / m² / month

Note: the price per m² strongly depends on the total amount of space you rent. In most cases, the more space you rent, the lower the rental price per m² will be.

Most providers also require a deposit, which is refunded when you end the contract if you leave the unit in good condition. For mobile storage containers, additional costs may apply for delivery and collection. Insurance is often mandatory, either via your existing home insurance or an additional policy from the storage company.

Several factors further influence the price, including:

Unit type: climate-controlled units or garage units with electricity are generally more expensive than standard units
Contract duration and flexibility: short-term or highly flexible contracts may cost more than long-term rentals
Extra services: some locations offer extensive security or 24/7 access, which also affects the rental price

Some companies offer discounts or packages, for example for long-term rental or a free first month. It is advisable to request a clear quote in advance and carefully check the invoice so that you know exactly what you are paying for. This way, you avoid unexpected costs when extending or terminating the contract and choose the storage space that best suits your situation.

How much self storage space do you need?

Determining the right storage space always starts with an inventory of what you want to store. Make a list of all items, including furniture, boxes, electronics, and seasonal items. Then estimate the volume and compare it with available units. As a rule of thumb, 10 m² is sufficient for the contents of an apartment. Take into account a small aisle so that you can access all items without having to move everything. Height is also an important consideration, as not all units are equally tall; some offer more volume (m³) without additional floor space, requiring more stacking.

Indicative guidelines:

Mini storage: suitable for boxes, small furniture, or seasonal items. Perfect for students, temporary moves, or hobby items
3-meter container: provides space for a studio or small one-bedroom apartment inventory. Useful for short-term storage, for example during renovations or moving
6-meter container: corresponds to a two- to three-bedroom apartment. Ideal for families or business clients with temporary inventory

If you are unsure about the size, many providers have a short online quiz, space calculator, or an employee who can advise based on your inventory. This prevents renting too much or facing a last-minute shortage of space.

From mini-storage to big box

Self storage comes in various sizes, from small storage boxes to large garage units. There is a suitable option for every scenario. Below is a size guide for standard storage formats:

Size	Surface area	Volume	Suited for
Mini-storage	1-6 m²	2-15 m³	Ideal for students, travelers, or temporary use during renovation
Medium unit	6-12 m²	15-30 m³	Fits the contents of a one-bedroom apartment or small business inventory
Large unit	12-20+ m²	30-60+ m³	Suitable for families or businesses with large furniture or seasonal stock

Think ahead: those who pack their items smartly with stackable boxes and dismantled furniture use space optimally. Protect electronics and fragile items with covers or blankets and make an inventory so you always know what is in your unit and where.

Tips for efficient use:

Stack sturdy boxes to a safe height, placing heavy items at the bottom and using uniform box sizes for extra stability
Place frequently used items at the front
Dismantle furniture where possible to save space
Leave space for access if you regularly need items
Make a clear inventory list and label all boxes

Tip: regularly check whether the unit size still fits your situation. Sometimes it is cheaper to rent a smaller size than to pay for unused cubic meters for months. Many providers charge storage units per month, making it easy to switch to a larger or smaller unit if your needs change.

Access, security & cleanliness

A good storage space is not only large enough but also safe, easily accessible, and clean. These three factors largely determine whether your items remain well-preserved.

Access

Access differs per location: some providers operate with standard opening hours and a reception desk, while others offer 24/7 access via a personal code, card, or app. Check in advance whether this matches your schedule.

The type of access you have to your self storage unit determines convenience. The most common methods are:

Office hours: standard option for many indoor units, limited to regular opening hours
Extended access: possible in the evening or on weekends at selected locations
24/7 access: via PIN, card, or app; ideal for frequent visits or flexible planning
Appointment-based access: often applies to full-service storage or certain mobile containers

Logistics at the facility are important: sufficient maneuvering space, large loading zones, and availability of lifts and trolleys make loading and unloading easier. Check access rights in advance, as only authorized users may have entry and identification may be required.

Consider holidays and special periods, as some locations may have adjusted hours. Plan your visits carefully to ensure loading and unloading is safe and smooth. This keeps using your storage unit efficient, regardless of the size or frequency of visits.

Security & insurance

Security is at least as important. Modern facilities have CCTV, lighting, alarms, and strong locks on each unit. Safety measures are usually noted in the terms and conditions, but you can also contact the provider if you have questions.

Security in self storage usually consists of multiple layers:

Physical security:

Insurance:

Rules and compliance:

A good unit provides both physical and insurance protection. This ensures that your items are safe and your liability is limited. Consider additional precautions yourself, such as adding an extra lock.

Cleanliness; options with/without electricity

A well-maintained storage unit is clean, dry, and well-ventilated. It is important to keep floors dry and maintain airflow to prevent moisture and mold. Inspect the unit during a visit for signs of dampness, strange odors, or damage, and document with photos. Report any issues to management immediately so they can resolve them. Regular maintenance and pest control by the storage company ensure the unit stays in optimal condition.

Units with electricity allow you to charge small devices or perform light tasks, such as using lamps or small tools. Always check which uses are permitted and follow safety guidelines. Units without electricity are usually cheaper but less suitable if you need to use electronics or tools during storage.

Proper preparation when loading, such as carefully stacking boxes, protecting fragile items, and making an inventory, helps maintain organization and prevent damage. This ensures your storage remains efficient, orderly, and safe for the entire duration of your rental.

Who uses self storage?

Different groups use self storage, each with specific needs regarding storage space, accessibility, and contract duration. It provides flexible solutions for both private individuals and business clients, from short-term temporary storage to long-term, organized storage of important items or inventory. Choosing the right unit depends on the quantity of items, how often you need access, and which amenities are required.

The main users are:

Private individuals: during moves, renovations, combining households, or temporary storage of valuable items
Business clients: companies needing to store archives, inventory, promotional materials, or project items
Students and seasonal storage: during internships or exchanges, or for seasonal items such as sports equipment or holiday goods

By mapping out what you are storing, how often you need access, and how much space that requires, you can choose a unit that fits perfectly. Self storage provides a practical, scalable solution for a wide range of situations, from temporary to long-term use.

Private use

Private individuals often use self storage during a new phase in life or temporary space problems. Examples include bridging a move, storing furniture during renovations, or temporarily housing items due to family expansion.

Practical tips for private users:

Make an inventory of everything you want to store and label boxes
Protect fragile items with bubble wrap or blankets
Check whether home insurance covers the storage unit
Consider a moving van or trolley provided by the storage company to make transport easier

Most self storage companies offer friendly and expert advice so you do not pay for more space than necessary. By choosing the right unit in advance and considering access and security, you can store your belongings stress-free and retrieve them easily later.

Business customers

Business clients use self storage for flexible and secure storage of inventory, tools, archives, or samples. Especially companies with peak periods or temporary projects benefit from the scalability of self storage. Units often need drive-up or lift access, and amenities such as electricity or climate control can be essential for certain products.

Important considerations for business users:

Invoices and contracts compatible with accounting and VAT
Ability to give multiple employees access to the unit
Flexible term contracts so storage can grow or shrink with business needs
Security and insurance options for valuable items

Students & seasonal storage

Students and people storing seasonal items, such as winter sports equipment or summer furniture, often need temporary storage with short contracts and low costs. Mini storage units or shared units are popular for their affordability and flexibility.

Helpful tips:

Group items by season or use
Use sturdy boxes and make an inventory list
Plan storage in advance, especially for peak periods like summer or Christmas
Choose a unit that is easily accessible for frequent visits

With smart organization and the right unit choice, everything stays organized and well-protected. Short contracts ensure you only pay for the time you actually need the storage.

How to evaluate self storage providers

Comparing self storage providers requires a structured approach to ensure you get the best value for money. Not only the rental price matters, but also location, unit type and size, access hours, security, hygiene, and extra amenities such as electricity or climate control. Contract terms, deposits, and flexibility are also important to avoid unexpected costs or restrictions.

A structured checklist helps you stay organized:

Location and travel time: how many minutes from home or work? Is the site easily accessible for cars or moving vans?
Unit features: size, climate control, electricity, type of unit (indoor, garage, container)
Security: CCTV, alarm systems, strong locks, possibly on-site staff
Hygiene and maintenance: dry and clean, no moisture issues, regular cleaning
Contracts and costs: deposit, payment terms, termination notice, price changes, promotions or packages

In addition, it is important to test customer service: how quickly do they respond to emails or calls, how knowledgeable and friendly is the advice, and are contact details clear? If possible, visit 2-3 provider locations and check practical aspects such as maneuvering space, loading zones, trolleys, and lifts. Reviews from other customers provide insight into potential issues such as access, moisture problems, or communication difficulties.

Location & travel time

The location of a self storage unit directly affects both price and convenience. Choosing a unit close to home, work, or school saves travel time, fuel, and effort. Those who need daily or weekly access usually choose a storage space within a ten to fifteen-minute radius. For occasional use, a location just outside the city can be more cost-effective, as rental prices are often lower.

Practical example in Amsterdam: imagine a family living in De Pijp who needs to pick up boxes daily for a home renovation project. An indoor unit in central Amsterdam might cost €160 per month, while a similar unit in Amstelveen or Diemen costs around €120 per month. At first glance, the out-of-town unit seems cheaper, but the extra 25-minute drive each way, often twice a day, adds up to nearly an hour of additional travel and extra fuel costs. In this case, the more expensive city unit could actually be the more practical and cost-effective choice. For someone who only needs access once a week, the lower-priced unit outside the city might be more appealing.

So when assessing accessibility, map your daily routes:

How long is the drive from home to storage, and what type of traffic do you encounter?
Are there peak hours or congested points that cause delays?
How is access to the facility itself: is there enough space for parking or unloading?

Also consider practical details. Some storage locations are on business parks with limited opening hours, while others offer 24/7 access. For larger vehicles, such as moving trucks, ensure the entrance is wide enough and there are no sharp turns or tight loading areas.

If you choose container storage, check whether placement on your property is allowed and whether the street is wide enough for a truck.

Contracts & deposit

When renting a self storage unit, it is important not only to look at the monthly rent but also at the fine print in the contract. These terms determine how much flexibility you have, what extra costs may apply, and how easy it is to terminate. A transparent contract prevents surprises and clearly outlines your rights and obligations.

In most cases, you pay a deposit in addition to the rent, which serves as security for the storage company. This deposit is usually refunded when you return the unit clean, empty, and undamaged. The amount varies by provider but is typically between one and two months’ rent. Pay attention to the conditions for refund and ask whether the provider returns the deposit within a set period.

Other costs that may appear in the contract include:

Administrative fees for signing the rental contract
Access or key fees, especially for automated or 24/7 systems
Insurance premiums if coverage is mandatory
Any costs for early termination of the contract

Also read provisions on price changes and contract extension carefully. Some providers offer promotional rates for the first months, after which the price increases. Always request a clear overview of total monthly costs after any discounts. A good provider will be transparent and confirm terms in writing.

Customer service & support

The difference between a professional provider and a mediocre one is often in how quickly and clearly they communicate. Good customer service can be recognized by:

Fast responses to questions via phone, email, or chat
Clear and honest information about prices, conditions, and access
Flexibility with extensions, changes, or temporary suspension of the contract
Helpful staff on-site who can assist with loading, unloading, or solving technical problems

Experiences from other customers can help when in doubt. Recent online reviews often give a good indication of how a company treats its tenants. Pay attention not only to star ratings but also to comments about communication, accessibility, and complaint handling.

A short trial period or asking a few test questions can also be revealing. If a provider responds politely, quickly, and clearly, that is a good sign. Being passed from one staff member to another may indicate poor organization.

Are there true alternatives to self storage?

Self storage is ideal in many situations, but it is not always the best choice. If you do not have time or a means of transportation to move your items yourself, or only need sporadic access, an alternative may be more suitable: full-service storage. In this option, the provider collects your items, stores them securely, and delivers them back upon request. This is perfect if you do not need immediate access to your items or cannot easily transport them yourself. You have less direct control, but the storage company handles everything, saving you significant time and effort.

A simple guideline for choosing the storage type that fits you:

Do you need regular and direct access and transport items yourself? Choose self storage
Do you want convenience, time savings, and is next-day delivery sufficient? Consider full-service storage from BOXIE24

Full-service storage

Full-service storage is all about convenience. Instead of lifting boxes and renting a storage unit yourself, the storage company manages the entire process. A team comes to your location, packs and collects your items, and transports them to a secure storage facility. When you want an item back, you can easily schedule a pickup or delivery.

This storage solution is ideal for:

Busy individuals
Seniors
City dwellers
People without transport or a driver’s license
Companies needing overflow storage, for example, during construction projects
Anyone who wants a stress-free storage experience

The cost is usually higher than regular self storage, but the service is more comprehensive. Costs generally cover:

Collection and transport
Storage in a controlled environment
Return delivery on request
Insurance against damage or loss (mandatory)

Full-service storage is especially attractive when convenience and time savings are more important than immediate access. It may be more expensive than DIY storage but saves time and effort. Consider lead times, pickup schedules, and possible extra costs for delivery.

For people and businesses unable or unwilling to transport items themselves, full-service storage from BOXIE24 provides a reliable and practical temporary storage solution.