With so many self storage companies out there to choose from, it’s hard to know which one to go with. Picking the right storage provider can be a life changing decision, giving you a support system to grow and expand in different sectors of life – from moving house to renovating. Self storage is the friend that will help you along the way by taking that weight off your shoulders.
This blog will provide a detailed storage comparison, covering everything from pricing and accessibility to customer service and unique perks. So you can find the right provider that aligns perfectly with your storage needs.
Pricing & Affordability
The cost of storage can be what makes it or breaks it for people. Sometimes you think you found a great provider that is close by but the cost makes you feel unsure whether it’s the best option for you.
Here’s a breakdown of pricing for Big Yellow and Kelly’s:
Big Yellow:
- The starting rate is anywhere from £10-£30 per week for smaller units (10 sq ft to 30 sq ft). These prices may vary across locations due to demand.
- They provide a 50% discount for new customers during the start of their rental, though this may depend on the room availability.
- Additional fees: A deposit is required when booking, plus insurance, a padlock and any extra packing materials you may need, like boxes or tape. You will also need to arrange your own transport to and from the facility which is an additional cost worth considering.
Kelly’s Storage:
- The starting rate is £22.56 per week for a 35 sq ft, this does not vary between locations and always remains the same.
- Various discounts are available, such as family friends get 25% off, NHS staff get free collection and refer a friend gets you £25 off your first invoice. Additionally, you can also get discounts based on your length of stay.
- Additional fees: Insurance costs will be added upfront as well as mobile transportation costs and any packaging materials you may need. There won’t be any additional costs worth considering, as transportation is already covered, and a deposit is not needed.
Location & Accessibility
Big Yellow:
- With various locations to choose from nationwide, there’s always a Big Yellow just around the corner.
- Most facilities are located in urban areas and include drive up access so you can easily unload your items from your vehicle right to the storage facility. Some may also provide forklift services to help you transport heavy items.
- They are open 7 days a week and operating hours are from 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday and 10am to 4pm Saturday and Sunday.
Kelly’s Storage:
- Kelly’s operate mostly in the southeast of England with their main storage facility located in Guildford.
- They are known for their mobile storage services, so they come and deliver to customers in their desired locations, creating a convenient and easily accessible storage that travels to where and when you need it.
- They are open 6 days a week and their operating hours are 8:30am to 5:30pm Monday to Friday and 9am to 3pm on Saturdays. There is also a required notice period of 48 hours if you want to access your unit.
Ultimately, Big Yellow provides you with traditional self storage services, whereas Kelly’s focuses on creating convenient, personalised and tailored experiences.
Security measures
Big Yellow:
- The facility is equipped with 24/7 CCTV surveillance.
- Access control systems with personalised access codes that allow you to enter storage areas.
- Alarm system and onsite staff also ensure your items are extra safe.
Kelly’s Storage:
- The facility also has 24/7 CCTV surveillance.
- Access is controlled and limited to authorised personnel only.
- Alarm systems and onsite staff during operating hours ensure utmost safety.
Ultimately, both self storage companies provide similar forms of excellent security, so both options provide safe and secure storage.
Customer service & Support
Big Yellow:
- They have a good service reputation, praised for its helpful and knowledgeable staff on site.
- The booking process is simple and convenient, and can either be done online or through the phone.
- Overall the reviews are mostly positive and provide feedback on helpful and knowledgeable staff making up the rating of 4.7/5 stars. Though most negative reviews relate to hidden fees or rising costs on storage overtime.
Kelly’s Storage:
- Kelly’s have a very strong reputation for their customer service, with attentive services that are personalised to each individual. Staff is helpful and attentive and always seeks to accommodate the needs of customers.
- The booking process is simple and can be done through the phone with a helpful storage expert or online.
- The reviews are very positive, often praising members of staff for their outstanding service, reaching a rating of 4.9/5 stars. Negative reviews are scarce and often related to personal issues that are swiftly resolved by the service team.
Ultimately what sets the two companies apart is their approaches to providing storage solutions. While big yellow provides quick and flexible storage options, Kelly’s shines in personalised attentive care that provides customers with a bespoke approach to their storage needs.
Unique Selling Points
Big Yellow:
- Nationwide coverage and centralised locations: Offering widespread availability allows people to always have a convenient storage facility nearby no matter where they are in the country. Adding greater convenience.
- Variety of storage options: Offering a range of sizes Big Yellow accommodates the needs of various types of people, from students to tradesmen. Making them highly popular.
Kelly’s Storage:
- Mobile storage option: Kelly’s specializes in mobile storage, bringing storage right to customers doorstep, they provide accessible easy and stress-free storage.
- Personalised, high-touch service: With customer oriented services including flexible scheduling for delivery and pickup, customers are presented with extremely personalised and attentive services. Highly valuable for elderly clients, busy professionals and families.
Making the Right Choice
To conclude, both companies offer valuable storage services. Though the key difference is accessibility vs convenience: while Big Yellow caters to customers who prefer direct access to their units, Kelly’s prioritizes convenience with home pickup and delivery.
Additionally, with different service models, Big Yellow provides a traditional self storage model suited for frequent and flexible self access, whereas Kelly’s provides a more personalised full service approach, making them feel more like a friend than a provider.
Discover the difference with Kelly's Storage!
Experience the personalised care you deserve, with easy, hassle-free storage
- Tailored to your needs and schedule
- Support every step of the way
- More free time to focus on what matters
