Guide

What is self-storage?

Self-storage is a private, secure unit that you rent for as long as you need it, from one month to several years. This guide explains how it works, who uses it, what it costs and what you can store.

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In short

  • Self-storage is a private, lockable unit in a secure building that you rent month by month.
  • You choose the size, book online and access your unit whenever you need it.
  • It suits moving, renovating, lack of space at home and growing businesses.
  • Storo opens in Lisbon in summer 2027. Join the waiting list for early-bird perks.

What is self-storage?

Self-storage is a service where you rent your own private, lockable space in a secure building to store belongings or business stock. Instead of keeping everything in an attic, a garage or a rented warehouse, you pay for exactly the space you need, for exactly as long as you need it.

You may also hear it called a storage unit, storage box or storage locker. The unit is yours alone: you lock it, and only the people you give access to can open it.

How does self-storage work?

Renting a unit takes a few simple steps:

  1. Choose a size. Pick a unit that fits what you want to store (see our size guide).
  2. Book online. Choose your start date, create an account and pay online.
  3. Sign your contract. At Storo you sign digitally with an SMS code.
  4. Move in. Open the building and your unit with the Storo app, without a physical key.
  5. Pay monthly and leave when you're done. Empty the unit and end the contract following the notice period.

Read more: What size unit do I need? →

What are the benefits of self-storage?

  • Flexible: rent for a few weeks or for years, and switch to a smaller or larger unit when your needs change.
  • Secure: your belongings are in a private unit in an access-controlled, monitored building.
  • Accessible: you can reach your unit when it suits you, instead of at set opening hours.
  • Transparent: you pay the monthly rent and the insurance for your unit.
  • Space back at home: free up a spare room, a garage or an attic.

Who uses self-storage?

Private customers

People who are moving or renovating, who have less space at home, who are between two homes, students, and anyone who wants to store bikes, hobby gear and seasonal items.

Read more: Self-storage when moving or renovating →

Businesses and online shops

Businesses use self-storage for stock, equipment, archives and event material. Online shops use it as a flexible stock room that grows with their orders.

Read more: Self-storage for businesses and online shops →

What can you store in a self-storage unit?

Most everyday items can be stored:

  • Furniture and appliances
  • Boxes, clothes and documents
  • Seasonal items such as Christmas decorations
  • Bikes, sports and hobby gear
  • Business stock, tools and equipment

Some things are not allowed:

  • Hazardous, flammable or polluting materials
  • Liquids that pose a risk
  • Perishable food
  • Living things, such as plants and animals
  • Anything illegal

The full list is in the terms and conditions.

How much does self-storage cost?

The price depends on three things: the location, the size of the unit and the rental period. Larger units cost more in total, but usually less per square metre. Besides the rent, you pay a monthly insurance for the contents of your unit.

Storo will announce its prices in Portugal before opening. People on the waiting list hear first.

Self-storage compared with the alternatives

  • Attic, garage or spare room: free, but it takes up space in your home and is not always secure or easy to reach.
  • Renting a warehouse: suitable for large volumes, but it usually means a long lease and a bigger commitment.
  • Friends or family: convenient, but not always possible and not for the long term.
  • Self-storage: flexible, secure and available in the size you need, on a short contract.

When does self-storage make sense?

Self-storage is a good fit when:

  • You need extra space for a few months, not forever.
  • You are between two homes, or moving abroad temporarily.
  • Your home or office is too small for everything you own.
  • You want flexibility instead of a long lease.

How do I choose a self-storage facility?

Not every facility is the same. Compare these points before you book:

  • Location: close to where you live or work, with easy access by car or public transport.
  • Security: access control, camera surveillance and an alarm on each unit.
  • Access: 24/7 access, trolleys and a loading zone make moving in easier.
  • Flexibility: short contracts, a clear notice period and the option to change size.
  • Transparency: clear prices and no surprise fees.
  • Cleanliness: bright, clean and well-maintained buildings.

If you can, visit before you book, and ask what is included in the price.

Frequently asked questions

Is self-storage safe?

Yes. A good self-storage facility has access control at the entrance, camera surveillance and a private, lockable unit that only you and the people you authorise can open. Storo also has a separate alarm on each unit.

How long can I rent a storage unit?

The minimum rental period is one month and there is no maximum: rent for as long as you like. Final rental terms for Portugal will be confirmed before opening.

Can I access my unit at any time?

Storo offers 24/7 access with your app or access code. Access hours for each Portuguese location will be confirmed before opening.

Do I need insurance?

Yes, insurance is mandatory when renting a Storo unit and is taken out as part of the online booking process. Coverage options and prices for Portugal will be announced before opening.

Last updated: October 2026 · By the Storo team

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