Storage Units vs Shared Warehouse Storage: Which is Best for You?

If you’re looking for extra storage space in Malta, you’ve probably seen two main options: traditional self-storage units and shared warehouse storage.

But which is right for your needs? At StoreX, we specialise in shared warehouse storage — but we also understand that every situation is different. In this guide, we’ll help you compare both options so you can make the best choice.

Quick Comparison Table

Feature	Self-Storage Units	Shared Warehouse Storage (StoreX)
Access	Self-managed	By appointment, handled for you
Payment	Fixed unit size (monthly fee)	Pay only for cubic metres used
Minimum space	Small unit (varies)	3 cubic metres minimum
Climate control & humidity	Often not included	Included
Security	Varies by provider	24/7 on-site security & CCTV
Insurance	Sometimes extra	Services Insurance available
Professional handling	You move and stack your items	StoreX handles, packs & racks
Ideal for	Frequent personal access	Longer-term storage & business use

How Self-Storage Units Work

Self-storage units are private, lockable spaces you rent — usually inside a larger storage facility. You manage access yourself and are responsible for transporting and organising your own items.

Pros:

• Access your items at any time (depending on facility hours)

• Good for frequent, ongoing access

• Suitable for short-term or transitional use

Cons:

• You pay for an entire unit, even if it’s half-empty

• You must handle transport and packing yourself

• Many facilities lack climate control

• Security varies significantly between providers

How Shared Warehouse Storage Works

At StoreX, shared warehouse storage offers a different approach:

• We collect your items via Transportation or you can deliver them

• Items are professionally packed using our Packing & Unpacking services

• Items are palletised, shrink-wrapped, and stored on industrial racks

• You only pay for the exact cubic metres of space your items use

• Access is arranged by appointment — we prepare items for safe retrieval

Pros:

• Highly secure with 24/7 monitoring

• Humidity-free environment

• Pay only for what you use

• Ideal for Business Storage & Distribution and Domestic Storage

• Professional handling minimises risk of damage

Cons:

• No 24h self-service access (you must arrange retrieval through StoreX transportation or by appointment.)

  
  

When to Choose Shared Warehouse Storage

You should consider shared warehouse storage if:

• You’re storing business inventory, seasonal stock, or documents

• You want your items stored in a professional, climate-controlled environment

• You need long-term storage (months or years)

• You’re moving internationally and need temporary storage before shipping — see our International Logistics

• You want to avoid the hassle of handling and moving heavy items yourself

When to Choose a Self-Storage Unit

A traditional self-storage unit may be better if:

• You need frequent, flexible access to your items

• You’re storing very small volumes (less than 3 cubic metres)

• You want to manage the space yourself (packing, stacking, retrieval)

Keep in mind that many self-storage units in Malta offer limited security and may not include climate control — which can be risky for long-term storage of sensitive items.

Ready to Choose the Best Storage Option?

At StoreX, we help clients choose the right solution for their needs — whether that’s shared warehouse storage or helping coordinate external self-storage.

We offer:

• Expert Packing & Unpacking

• Professional Transportation

• Secure Domestic Storage and Business Storage & Distribution

• Flexible International Logistics

• Comprehensive Services Insurance

  
  

👉 Get a Quote today — and let’s find the perfect storage solution for you.

FAQs

Is shared warehouse storage more expensive than self-storage? 

Not necessarily. Because you pay by cubic metre, shared warehouse storage can actually be more cost-effective than renting an oversized storage unit — especially for longer-term needs.

Can I access my stored items in a shared warehouse? 

Yes — access is arranged by appointment. We prepare your items for retrieval and can assist with delivery if needed.

Is shared warehouse storage suitable for business use? 

Absolutely. Many of our clients use Business Storage & Distribution to manage inventory, documents, and equipment.

Are my items insured in shared warehouse storage? 

We offer optional Services Insurance to protect your belongings while in storage.

Can I use shared warehouse storage when moving internationally? 

Yes — it’s a perfect solution for International Logistics. We can store your items while arranging international shipment.