Most people never think about temporary warehouse space at all, or if they do they imagine it is the exclusive realm of huge distribution companies moving pallets of 
anonymous crates hither and yon by the train- and lorry-load. In fact, many uses are of a much smaller, and more approachable scale.
Using temporary warehouse space for customs purposes
Quite often, temporary warehouse space is used for storing imported products while customs procedures are ongoing. Warehousing goods temporarily in this context often requires only minimal paperwork, and it is often possible to store products in this way which cannot be legally imported into the UK – for the purpose of later transhipment, for example. Goods can only be warehoused in this way for a maximum of two months, or occasionally four months with the permission of the appropriate customs authority. Of course, most operations beyond mere storing, including splitting or repackaging, are not allowed, nor is it possible to transfer the ownership of goods so stored.
Local business use of temporary warehouse space
Many businesses find they have resources that are too expensive to store in the office, but which are too important or difficult to replace to dispense with. Archived records, unused office furniture, and exhibition stands or equipment are bulky and do not require everyday access. The solution is to contract for temporary or even long term warehouse space to store these items.
Many SMEs seek to reduce overhead at almost any cost today, and employing temporary warehouse space can allow the downsizing of office space without a loss of efficiency, or even an expansion into areas that had been used for storage, at a large rent savings.
Moving or renovation offices can be expensive as well. Utilising a temporary warehousing facility can save money in the short run, and ensure that the pickup, storage and redelivery of your goods, equipment and furniture is handled by experts.
Many businesses could expand their presence (and effectiveness) at exhibitions and conferences by taking advantage of the lower storage costs and delivery capability of temporary warehousing space.
Some businesses are prevented from ordering the most cost efficient quantities of goods and materials for lack of proper storage space, especially when preparing for seasonal shifts in demand. Storing the excess in temporary warehouse space is both easy and efficient.
With margins as low as they are already, storing unsold inventory until after the flood of post-Christmas sales have stopped can keep a small company profitable.
Private use of temporary warehouse space
All too often, private individuals never consider the possibility of contracting for inexpensive commercial warehouse space. Nonetheless, a few have discovered the potential.
For example, storing your furniture and possessions during a complicated move or renovation can be very expensive. Contracting for temporary warehouse space is inexpensive, and the delivery is generally cheaper than hiring movers.
If leasing or subletting an apartment you may need to store your furniture or goods to make room for the new tenant. Contracting for a temporary warehousing facility to pick up, store, and then return your household goods is becoming a popular option.
Students who must vacate dormitory space for the summer face a similar challenge. Renting temporary warehouse space is the perfect solution to storing your furniture, books and personal electronics, even your winter wardrobe, until you move back in this fall.
Similarly, many country or holiday home owners do not feel comfortable leaving their possessions unattended for months at a time. Temporary warehousing assures them of the security of their possessions. Even those going on long business trips can benefit from the security and ease of use of warehouse space.
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