When most people think of storage, they imagine plain units and stacked boxes. Maybe it’s a place to store furniture between moves or keep seasonal stock for a small business. But spend a day inside one of our facilities, and you'll quickly learn that self storage is anything but dull.
What we found? Stories that are heartwarming, head-scratching, and unexpectedly human.
Let’s start with the wildest things they’ve seen stored.
“I’ve seen a dead snake in a tank and a bag of frozen sausages that had turned green,” says Nick from Mitcham. “That’s not something you forget.”
The Sutton team recalled the time someone requested to store a live parrot. “Yes, an actual parrot,” they confirmed. “Sadly, we had to say no!”
Then there were the 50 carbon fibre elephants, seven feet tall and fully painted, part of a celebrity charity auction that raised £4 million. “It’s not your typical customer order,” said the Kings Cross team. “But it was unforgettable.”
Oh, and if you’re wondering about mascot costumes, yes, those pop up too. “Large mascot outfits from children’s events,” Sutton told us, “you wouldn’t believe what’s inside these units unless you see it.”
(Access Self Storage do not allow pets or food to be stored, please do not attempt to store pets or food here)
For every odd object, there’s a deeply sentimental story.
Take Mr O, a customer at Mitcham who turned up ten years ago clearly distressed. Staff suspected something amiss. But what he desperately needed was space to store his late mother’s belongings, items he couldn’t bear to part with.
“Over time, we got to know him,” Nick explained. “He became a friend. He’s attended staff weddings, offered tutoring during COVID lockdowns, and even written legal letters to help our team. You never really know what someone is going through when they walk in.”
Many storage myths and truths exist; and our staff have heard them all.
“One of the biggest misconceptions is that storage is too expensive or requires long-term commitment,” Sutton told us. “People think it’s complicated or unaffordable, but once they talk to us, they realise it’s flexible, scalable, and not nearly as restrictive as they assumed.”
Many first-time customers also think storage teams just sit behind a desk all day. “We hear that even from our partners!” Nick laughed. “In reality, we’re doing regular walk-throughs, handling security 24/7, managing health and safety, and fielding customer requests constantly. The job is a lot more dynamic than people think.”
The paperwork alone can surprise people. “You’d be amazed how much admin is involved,” the Sutton team added. “Facility and car park management, risk assessments—we quietly prevent chaos every day.”
While the objects and oddities make for great anecdotes, what staff love most are the people.
"People use us like their therapist,” said Alison from Kings Cross. “There’s still a perception in London that people don’t talk to strangers, but we’ve seen how much customers open up when they feel safe.”
From divorcees to artists, from collectors to business owners, many customers arrive during moments of change. Some are starting over. Some are grieving. Some are chasing growth. But most discover that storage isn’t just for unusual situations, it’s a practical solution shared by people from all walks of life.
“It’s amazing how many people think their situation is unique,” said Nick. “But whether they’re moving house, starting a small business, or storing things during renovations, they’re often going through the same life moments as others.”
Working in Storage, in an industry that’s often seen as transactional, the Access teams offer more than square footage. They offer peace of mind.
“Whether someone’s storing for the short-term or long haul, they want to know they’re in the right hands,” Nick said. “Our team has been together for over 11 years. We know how to spot someone who’s having a hard day, and we’re always ready to help.”
From answering frantic calls from movers to solving problems before they happen, storage staff wear many hats, sometimes even therapist or cheerleader. Our storage units contain sentimental items that reflect real stories from our storage customers.
“Storage is the backdrop, but people are the story,” said Alison.
Between mascot heads, giant painted elephants, and late-night emergency calls, boredom is the last thing you’ll find inside a storage facility.
“We’ve helped artists store sculptures, eBay traders run businesses, families hide Christmas presents, and people keep memories safe,” Sutton shared. “Every unit has a story. We’re just lucky enough to witness them.”
So, next time you walk past a storage company and assume it’s just a row of unassuming storage boxes, think again.
Because behind every shutter, there’s something waiting: a fresh start, a personal treasure, or just a very surprised parrot (just kidding, again we don't store pets!).
If you’re looking for secure self storage with a personal touch, Access offers more than just storage lockers. Whether you’re looking for office space, extra space for your home, or simply need a storage option during a transition, we’re here to help and keep your personal items safe and secure.
👉 Explore our range of business storage units
👉 Find storage for moving home here
👉 Speak to your local store about short or long-term storage options
Storage isn’t boring. It’s full of life, stories, and support. Get a free storage quote now.