Someone loading their self-storage unit
 

Self-storage has become an increasingly popular solution for individuals and businesses needing additional storage space. However, as we strive to reduce our carbon footprint and promote sustainability, it’s important to consider the environmental impact of our storage practices.

In this blog, we will explore the topic of sustainable storing and how self-storage plays a crucial role in reducing our carbon footprint. We will discuss the environmental impact of the self-storage industry and how Kangaroo Self Storage is committed to sustainability. You’ll also find tips on how individuals and businesses can adopt sustainable storage practices and contribute to a more sustainable future.

Join us on this journey towards sustainable storing and discover how self-storage helps reduce your carbon footprint.

The Benefits of Self-Storage for Reducing Your Carbon Footprint

Self-storage facilities are often a convenient solution for individuals and businesses that need additional space for their belongings. However, traditional storage options have a significant environmental impact; choosing a sustainable self-storage facility will reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.

One of the primary benefits of self-storage facilities is that they are often more energy-efficient than traditional storage options. For example, here at Kangaroo Self Storage, we don’t heat our storage units, considerably reducing energy bills. But don’t worry; you won’t freeze when moving items in and out of storage; the unit’s temperature remains consistent.

Carbon footprint logo on a cardboard box

Another benefit of self-storage is that it promotes the reuse of existing resources, an essential aspect of the circular economy. By storing items you no longer use or need, you prevent them from ending up in landfills and promote their reuse.

The Importance of Sustainable Storage Practices

Sustainable storage practices are becoming increasingly important in today’s society due to the growing concern for the environment and the impact that human activities have on the planet.

For example, sustainable storage practices can help to protect valuable goods from damage or spoilage. In addition, proper storage techniques will help to maintain the quality and integrity of products, which ultimately leads to a longer lifespan and reduce the need for replacement.

If you’re unsure about the best storage practices for your belongings, we have plenty of FAQs to hopefully provide the answers you need, but here are a few top tips to help you maximise your unit, use your space efficiently, and extend your items’ lifespans:

  • Plan ahead by thinking about the size and weight of each item and how they will be stored
  • Take advantage of our services and ask us to add shelves and racks if you need them
  • Labels are your best friend; use them for everything
  • Protect your items using packing materials available from our Box Shop

Following the last point, we have an extensive range of packing materials, including various boxes and plenty of protective materials, such as bubble wrap. Pick up everything you need to protect your belongings online or by visiting our shops in person.

Half-filled self-storage unit

The Role of Self-Storage in the Circular Economy

The circular economy is a system of production and consumption that aims to minimise waste and maximise the use of resources. In this system, products and materials are reused, repaired, or recycled instead of thrown away. Both business and household self-storage play an important role in this system by providing a space for individuals and companies to store items that can be repurposed or reused.

One way that self-storage contributes to the circular economy is by providing a space for businesses to store surplus stock or materials that can be reused in the future. For example, a company may store winter clothing that didn’t sell when it was time to prepare for spring. The company will reduce waste and conserve resources by storing this stock instead of throwing it away.

Self-storage also plays a role in the sharing economy, another aspect of the circular economy. Through sharing platforms, individuals can rent out their unused items to others, reducing the need for new items to be produced. Self-storage will provide a space for individuals to store these items when they are not being rented out, making it easier to participate in the sharing economy.

Circular economy graphic

Another way that self-storage contributes to the circular economy is by providing a space for individuals and businesses to store items that can be repaired or refurbished. For example, someone may store a piece of furniture that needs to be refinished or repaired, and by repairing and reusing items, we can reduce waste and conserve resources.

Why Choose a Sustainable Self-Storage Supplier Like Kangaroo?

The self-storage industry is incredibly eco-friendly; let’s take a look at some of the reasons why and also why choosing a sustainable supplier such as Kangaroo is an excellent choice for both individuals and businesses:

  • Very few self-storage facilities are heated, including ourselves, meaning no energy is wasted when there are no visitors
  • Most stores have switched to LED lighting, which is often sensor-controlled, which, again, means no energy is wasted
  • Self-storage is not a large generator of traffic, with 75% of customers visiting their unit once a month or less and 20% fewer than three times a year
  • Customers do not travel long distances to their storage unit, with only 25% travelling more than 20 minutes and 38% travelling less than 10 minutes to their self-storage store

Here at Kangaroo Self Storage, we have conveniently located storage facilities across Scotland and North West England, including:

You’re never too far away from sustainable storing. Visit us in person or contact our team online to discuss your storage options; we’re always happy to help.

Stacked storage unit at Kangaroo Self Storage
 

If you’re considering using a self-storage unit to store your belongings, choosing the right size is one of the most important decisions you’ll have to make. Fortunately, Kangaroo Self Storage has a variety of unit sizes to choose from, from 1.5m2 to more than 46.45 m2!

Choosing the right unit size is important to ensure that you’re not wasting storage space and, instead, have enough room to store all your belongings comfortably. So, by using this guide, you’ll hopefully better understand which unit size is best suited for your storage needs.

Let’s delve in and help you find the perfect-sized storage unit for you and your items here at Kangaroo.

How to Determine The Right Size for Your Storage Needs

Before it comes to selecting a unit, we recommend taking some steps to determine the right size:

  1. Lists are your best friend. An organised list of everything you plan to store will give you an idea of the space you’ll need. Group items together by size and category to make it easier to estimate the total volume.
  2. Measure your items. Consider each box or large item’s height, width, and depth.
  3. Talk to our self-storage professionals. You can always contact us for expert advice on our recommended unit size.
  4. Consider your future storage needs. If you plan to add more items to your storage unit, renting a slightly larger unit from the beginning may be more cost-effective.
  5. Visit us! Don’t forget you can always hop on over to Kangaroo to get a better sense of how much space each unit offers.

By following these steps, you can ensure that you choose the right size for your needs and avoid paying for more space than you need or renting a unit that’s too small for your belongings.

Partly-filled self-storage unit

Comparing Different Sizes Of Storage Units

It’s understandable that (even if you’ve considered the steps above) you may be overwhelmed by choice due to the extensive list of different unit sizes we offer. To ensure this doesn’t happen and you have a smooth storing process, firstly, gather your list of items you plan to store and check this against our unit size list.

For example, our 2.5m2 unit is ideal for storing the contents of a small garden shed, whereas our 3.25m2 unit comfortably fits the contents of a one-bedroom flat. By visualising your listed items, you can get a better idea of the best size for you.

As mentioned, consider your future storage needs and whether you may need to upgrade to a larger unit later on. However, if you find that you do need some extra space further down the line or you’re not using as much space as you initially thought you would, we’re always happy to up or downsize your unit, depending on our availability.

Organisation and Packing Tips for Your Unit Size

Whether storing in a single pallet or taking advantage of our incredible warehouse storage, packing efficiently will help you maximise your space. For example, using sturdy boxes stacked on each other to save space is one of the best ways to get the most out of your unit. But, before you begin stacking, clearly label your boxes to make it easier to find what you need when you’re ready to retrieve your items from storage.

In addition, if your storage unit is big enough to walk around in, create a pathway to give yourself the space to access all your belongings and allow room to manoeuvre. This will make it easier to initially fill your storage unit and will help with future-proofing when it’s time to retrieve items or move boxes around.

Kangaroo Self-Storage staff member packing a storage unit

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Unit Size

Making a mistake when choosing your storage unit can cost you money and time, so avoiding common errors is key to a smooth storage process. Here are some common mistakes to avoid when choosing a unit size:

  • Underestimating or overestimating your storage needs. One of the most common mistakes is underestimating or overestimating the space you’ll need, which is where our recommended list-making comes in handy!
  • Ignoring height. Many people forget to consider the height of the storage unit when choosing a size. If you’re storing items that can be stacked, like boxes or furniture, a unit with a higher ceiling will allow you to take advantage of vertical space.
  • Forgetting about access. Forgetting to consider access to your storage unit is another mistake. If you plan to visit your unit frequently, make sure there’s enough space to move around and access your belongings.
  • Failing to account for future needs. It’s important to think about your future storage needs when choosing a unit size. For example, renting a larger unit from the start may be more cost-effective if you plan to add more items in the future.

Whether you’re looking for business, household, or student self-storage, we provide the extra space you need. Kangaroo Self Storage has locations across Scotland and North West England, including:

You’re never too far away from Roo and the team; visit us in-store or get a quote online today to discover what we can do for you.

Key in door with house keyring
 

As an estate agent or property manager, your job is to help your clients buy, sell, rent or manage properties. However, the process of buying or selling a property can be overwhelming for clients, and they may need additional services to make the process smoother. This is where our self-storage comes in!

Our self-storage for businesses will provide a range of benefits to estate agents and property managers, such as extra space for storing furniture or decluttering a property before a viewing. So, as part of our series looking into how different businesses benefit from self-storage, we’re exploring the advantages of our services for estate agents and property managers.

Increased Space In Homes Up for Sale

Clearing clutter from a home is essential in preparing it for sale. Too much clutter will make a home appear smaller and less appealing to potential buyers, so by using self-storage to declutter, estate agents can remove excess items from the home, creating a more open and spacious feel.

Clearing clutter also helps to depersonalise the home. For example, personal items such as family photos or collections make it difficult for potential buyers to imagine themselves living in the home. So by storing these items, estate agents will create a blank canvas allowing potential buyers to visualise their own belongings in the space.

Whether you need to store items from a studio apartment or a five-bedroom home, we have plenty of unit sizes and are sure to have the right storage space for you.

Estate agent with couple in new home

Safe and Secure Storage for Clients’ Personal Belongings

As well as depersonalising and decluttering a home, self-storage is excellent for estate agents and property managers who want to store clients’ belongings for house viewings. During a viewing, some potential buyers may be more prying than others, and the seller may not feel comfortable leaving personal or valuable items in the home if they’re not present for viewings.

If the sellers have nowhere to move the belongings, self-storage is the next best option. All self-storage facilities here at Kangaroo have 24-hour CCTV, which record and monitor all activity in the building, as well as individual padlocks on each unit. As a result, estate agents can put sellers’ minds at ease, and they will relax knowing their belongings are safe and secure.

The Perfect Storage Space for Staging Props and Furniture

Sometimes, estate agents and property managers will be responsible for staging a home to sell. This is common in new build estates or property developments to provide potential buyers with a showhome that exhibits the home’s potential.

Self-storage provides the perfect solution for storing staging furniture. You can store everything in your unit, allowing you to switch around the furniture seasonally. Then, you have the option to decorate the showhomes for Christmas or set out the garden for a summer barbeque! Whatever the weather, you’ll be able to showcase everything the home offers to potential buyers.

For sale sign outside a house

Secure and Organised Space for Maintenance Equipment and Tools

As we discussed in our blog about how those in the construction industry can benefit from self-storage, our storage units are excellent for keeping maintenance equipment and tools organised. When a property manager flips a home, several contractors may work on the property simultaneously, so a self-storage unit can act as a tool’s central hub.

Our equipment storage makes your tools accessible to the whole team; they just need to ensure they bring a key to the unit’s padlock!

Excellent Flexibility for Changing Deadlines

Self-storage facilities have extensive benefits for those involved in selling a home. If you’ve been through the process before, you’ll understand that deadlines may change and being flexible is key. Luckily for you, our self-storage is an excellent, flexible storage option!

We invoice storers on a four weekly (twenty eight day) basis payable in advance. However, we only ask for fourteen days’ notice when you vacate your room, and we refund any unused storage charge. This is particularly useful for people involved in selling a home with changing deadlines, as they may need to store their belongings for a longer or shorter period than anticipated.

Empty storage unit at Kangaroo

In addition, we give you the option to up or downsize if and when you need to (space depending), so if you’re not using all the space you’re renting, or business gets busier, and you need more room, you can!

Here at Kangaroo Self Storage, we offer self-storage for businesses across Scotland and North West England; take a look at our locations to find your nearest Kangaroo:

As always, don’t forget you can get in touch with us for more information or to book your storage unit.

Happy woman in yellow tshirt hugging storage box
 

Spring is always exciting for the team here at Kangaroo Self Storage as it marks a transition into the season of new beginnings. The arrival of spring symbolises fresh starts and new opportunities, making it the perfect time to showcase your organisational skills and gear up for a busy season ahead, especially if you’re a business owner.

Although you may be familiar with the term “spring cleaning”, at Kangaroo Self Storage, we take things a step further by offering assistance to our clients when organising and planning for whatever the season may bring. Our business self-storage units are designed to provide you with the space and resources to effectively prepare for spring, which is exactly what we’re delving into today.

So, read on to discover how our self-storage units can assist you in getting ready for spring, ensuring that you stay organised throughout the upcoming months.

The Benefits of Using Self-Storage for Your Business During Spring

Spring presents an excellent opportunity for businesses to tidy up and organise their workspaces, but sometimes space constraints make it difficult to store all items. That’s where our self-storage solutions can help! We provide high-quality and secure units, and your business could be one of many we work with to offer outstanding benefits during spring.

Our self-storage units provide additional space to store items that are not immediately required but are still essential. For example, seasonal inventory like winter display items and marketing materials that need replacing during the transition to spring. By storing these items offsite, businesses can free up valuable workspace in their premises.

Padlocked storage unit

In addition, our business self-storage facilities offer high-level security features like 24-hour CCTV, individual unit padlocks, and state-of-the-art intruder alarm systems, which give businesses peace of mind, knowing their items are safe and secure with Kangaroo.

Surplus Stock Storage

If you operate a retail or e-commerce business, you’re probably familiar with the seasonal stock transition from winter to spring, which often requires adjusting your products or marketing materials. For instance, winter clothes like jumpers and big coats may not be as popular as we move from March into April and beyond. But what happens if you have unsold products from the previous season? While you can try to boost sales with discounts, sometimes you can’t avoid having leftover stock during a seasonal transition, leaving you wondering where to store the new spring stock.

Fortunately, business self-storage units provide the perfect solution for storing surplus stock. You can box and label unsold winter items and bring them out again next year with no financial loss!

Choosing the Right Storage Size for Your Needs

If you’re new to self-storage, it’s understandable to be uncertain about the available units and which size would best fit you and your business. That’s why we offer a helpful size guide and details about our unit sizes on our website. However, if you’re still unsure, don’t worry; you don’t have to commit to a single unit size when you store with us. Instead, you can upsize or downsize as needed, depending on availability. This means that if you have more surplus stock in the summer or need to store furniture during business renovations, you can easily move to a larger unit if we have the space for you.

Empty storage unit at Kangaroo Self Storage

Our Top 3 Tips for Businesses Transitioning to Spring

As a leading supplier of self-storage units for businesses, we have had the opportunity to work closely with individuals from various industries, gaining valuable insight along the way. Based on our unique experience, we have some useful tips to share for businesses transitioning to spring. Let’s take a look:

  1. Declutter before the new season. To avoid a massive clean-up job later on, it’s best to declutter your business premises before the start of spring. This involves removing unnecessary items and reorganising your self-storage unit for a fresh start.
  2. Review your business goals. Spring is an excellent time to review business goals and make necessary adjustments. Evaluate the business’s performance thus far and set new goals for the upcoming months.
  3. Plan for seasonal changes. Spring brings seasonal changes that can impact businesses, so it’s important to consider how the season will affect your company and plan accordingly. This may involve storing old inventory with Smart Storage to ensure the smooth operation of the business.

Here at Kangaroo Self Storage, we understand that your business means everything to you, which is why we go above and beyond to ensure we do what we can to help it thrive. Our business self-storage is located across North West England and Scotland:

So if you’re nearby, pop in to see how we can help. Alternatively, get in touch to speak to our self-storage experts.

Feefo award win banner
 

We’ve done it – again. Kangaroo Self Storage has been awarded the Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award. An independent seal of excellence, the award recognises businesses that consistently deliver a world-class customer experience.

 

Feefo established the Trusted Service Awards in 2014 to recognise brands that use the platform to collect verified reviews and receive exceptional feedback from their customers. The awards are unique because they truly reflect a business’s dedication to providing outstanding customer service by analysing feedback from real customers.

 

Chris Stevens, CEO at Kangaroo Self Storage, commented: “We’re delighted to receive a Platinum Trusted Service Award from Feefo.  Keeping our customers happy is our priority. The fact that this award is based on feedback from real customers gives us confidence we are providing an exceptional level of service.

 

“The award recognises just how hard our teams work each and every day. And, of course, we couldn’t get this award without our customers. So, we’d also like to thank our customers not only for their business, but for taking the time to review us too. It really makes a difference to us.”

 

Feefo has presented Platinum Trusted Service Awards to businesses that have achieved Gold standard for three consecutive years. To receive a Gold Trusted Service Award, businesses must have collected at least 50 reviews with a Feefo service rating of between 4.5 and 4.9 between 1st January 2022 and 31st December 2022.

 

Congratulating Kangaroo Self Storage, Tony Wheble, CEO at Feefo, said: “The Trusted Service Awards have always been about recognising companies that go way beyond the norm in customer service and in turn receive great feedback from delighted customers.

 

“A particular congratulations to Kangaroo Self Storage for winning a Platinum Trusted Service Award by providing great customer service consistently over a number of years. I look forward to seeing them continue to achieve next year and beyond.”

 

Working with over 6,000 brands, Feefo is the world’s largest provider of verified reviews, helping brands understand customers by analysing verified reviews and providing insight into trends, needs and habits.

Carlisle Kangaroo Self Storage from above
 

Kangaroo Self Storage is expanding its services in Carlisle on the back of increasing customer demand, and a duo of award wins.

The self-storage company based in Kingstown Industrial Estate has expanded its services, adding over 7,000sq ft of storage space to support local businesses and householders in the Carlisle area struggling for space. The company, which has nine other storage centres across the North West and in Scotland, has invested in the Carlisle store creating nearly 100 new personal storage units ranging from 20sq ft up to 200 sq ft.

Chris Stevens, CEO of Kangaroo Self Storage, said, “When customers put their personal belongings and business stock into storage, they need to be absolutely confident that their possessions and goods will remain just as they left them. We understand this and invest heavily in our storage centres and the private units to ensure that they are well maintained and are dry, and secure.

 

“We’re delighted that this approach to storage has been so well received by the community in Carlisle, and as a result, we have just completed the build of a range of new storage units to meet this need. The units are perfect for growing businesses looking for flexible space for stock or longer term archive and for householders that are selling or moving home or simply need more space.”

 

The team in Carlisle is led by Adam Scott, and under his leadership, his new team has been awarded the Feefo Platinum Trusted Service Award. The Trusted Service Awards were established by Feefo in 2014 and are an independent seal of excellence, recognising businesses that consistently deliver a world-class customer experience.

Working with over 6,000 brands, Feefo is the world’s largest provider of verified reviews, helping brands understand customers by analysing verified reviews and providing insight into trends, needs and habits.

Inside Kangaroo Self Storage Carlisle

 Additionally, the company has also been recognised by the Tick Box Scheme following a successful audit by Trading Standards. The scheme sets out procedures designed to prevent the storage of counterfeit and other illicit or unsafe goods by rogue traders and criminal gangs and is administered by Trading Standards Services and the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO).  The scheme, ‘The Tick Box: Keep it Real Keep it Legal’ code of practice, has the support of the self-storage industry trade association, the Self Storage Association (SSA UK).

 

Adam commented, “It’s been a great start to 2023 for us.  The store is looking amazing, and the team has really settled in well together.  Whilst the Tick Box Scheme award is further verification that we are getting things right – it’s great to get that recognition, and it provides further reassurance to our customers that we’re doing all we can to ensure their belongings are secure.

“Of course, we’re delighted to receive a Platinum Trusted Service Award from Feefo, too.  Keeping our customers happy is our priority, so the fact this award is based on feedback from real customers makes it really special.”

Kangaroo Self Storage Carlisle provides storage for businesses, householders and students in private storage units ranging from 20sq ft to 300sq ft.  Additionally, the team offer palletised warehouse storage and a forklift service.  For more information, contact Adam and his team on 01228 595959 or [email protected].

Carlisle castle
 

Kangaroo are thrilled to announce the opening of yet another storage store! This time, Roo and the gang have hopped over to Carlisle, and over the past few weeks, we’ve settled in quite nicely. The city is thriving and proven as a popular place to reside, study, and start a business, which is why we believe we’ll fit in very well.

We’re so excited to widen our reach and be able to help even more people with our storage services. So today, we’re taking a deep dive into our new home and providing you with a guide on living, studying, and owning a business in Carlisle. In addition, we hope to provide some insight into the city and why it’s the ideal place for so many different types of people.

Carlisle’s Rich History

One of the main reasons Carlisle is so popular is its incredible history, which is still visible throughout the city. Many of Carlisle’s famous landmarks have a rich history and, upon visiting, provide you with insightful knowledge of the city’s past. Here are a few of the most famous historic spots in Carlisle:

  • Carlisle Castle. First built in 1093 and then rebuilt in stone in 1122, the castle is over 900 years old and is the perfect site for learning about the city’s past.
  • Carlisle Cathedral. Located in the centre of Carlisle, the famous cathedral is home to England’s largest flowing decorated Gothic-style window.
  • Wetheral Priory Gatehouse. Founded in the early 12th century, this picturesque stone fortification is a stunning piece of Carlisle’s history.

It’s clear that great history is found around every corner in Carlisle, making it a fascinating place to live, work, or study. We couldn’t be prouder to make Kangaroo history by bringing our storage stores to the beautiful city.

Carlisle cathedral

Things to Do in Carlisle

For those residing in Carlisle, you can be sure you’ll never get bored of the many things to do and see in the city centre and slightly further afield. Here are some of the top things to do:

  1. Walk along Hadrian’s Wall. Providing stunning views and the best picnic spots, this walk can be as short or as long as you wish, and you can start at multiple different viewing points in Carlisle.
  2. Shop at the Lanes Shopping Centre. Whether you need to grab a last-minute birthday present, have some time to kill on your lunch break, or are looking to treat yourself, the Lanes Shopping Centre has everything you need.
  3. Take a stroll in Rickerby Park. Rickerby Park offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of Carlisle city centre.
  4. Visit the Tullie House Museum and Art Gallery. With both evergreen and seasonal exhibitions, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye in the city’s most famous museum.
  5. Store with Kangaroo Self Storage! Of course, Kangaroo Self Storage has recently made Carlisle our new home, so you’re more than welcome to visit us. If you’re local to the area, our household storage in Carlisle is exactly what you need to provide breathing space while you reorganise, redecorate, or renovate your home.

man loading boxes into storage unit

Studying in Carlisle

Carlisle is a fantastic, bustling place for students to enjoy their university years. As discussed above, there are plenty of things to do and see, meaning you’ll never be bored during your downtime away from your studies.

The city boasts several high-quality educational facilities, such as the University of Cumbria, which offers an incredibly diverse range of courses.

In addition, Carlisle has been noted for its fantastic career prospects. Studying in the Cumbrian city opens up a variety of career opportunities, particularly in the tourism industry. This is because the university is surrounded by the stunning Lake District, which welcomes over 15.5 million visitors annually.

We offer student storage in Carlisle, so if you are studying in the city, please don’t hesitate to enquire about storing with us. We offer plenty of deals, offers, and discounts for students so you can save while you store!

Starting a Business in Carlisle

Running a business in Carlisle provides a long list of benefits, including:

  1. Growing economy. Carlisle’s economy provides ample opportunities for new businesses to thrive.
  2. Strategic location. As well as being a thriving city, Carlisle is brilliantly located close to major cities such as Glasgow, Manchester, and Newcastle.
  3. Supportive workforce. The local government and business community support entrepreneurship and provide resources and assistance to help new businesses succeed.
  4. Growing tourism industry. Carlisle’s growing tourism industry presents business opportunities in the hospitality, food and beverage, and retail sectors.

If you’re looking for business storage in Carlisle, we’re here for you. We now have first-hand experience running a business in Carlisle and can vouch for all of the above, so if you’re considering starting a company in the Cumbrian city, this is your sign.

Don’t forget, we also have locations across the rest of North West England Scotland, including:

Please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team or visit one of our stores in person to discover how we can help you, whether you’re a local resident, student, or business owner.

2023 goals on a notebook
 

Now that we’re into 2023 and the lull of January has hit, you might still be thinking about how to tackle the year and achieve your goals. For some people, setting goals for the new year means losing weight, reading more, or giving up smoking. But goals don’t have to be about stopping or starting habits, particularly as most of these well-meaning ideas are abandoned by February. Trying to make 2023 the best year it can be is about more than self-improvement; it can be about finally making steps to get to where you want to be in life.

Whether you’ve always wanted to own a business, take the plunge into a brand-new career sector, or move to a new area, make 2023 the year you stop hoping and start doing.

Think About Where You Want to Be

The first step to making 2023 your year is establishing where you are now and where you want to be. How do you want your year to look? Are you hoping to found your start-up business, go to university to finally get the degree you need to switch up your career or move out of your hometown to a brand-new area? Whatever it is, deciding your goals is the first step in ensuring your dreams become a reality.

Once you have a clear idea of your destination, you can begin planning your journey and deciding the best route to make sure you get to where you want to be by the end of the year.

SMART steps written in a notebook

Take SMART Steps

You may have heard of the SMART technique before. If not, it’s an acronym that sets out a way to create, well, smart goals:

  • Specific – The goal needs to be clear and precise. What is it you want to accomplish? Why do you want to achieve it? What or who is involved, and what resources do you need? Set out your goal as clearly and with as much detail as possible.
  • Measurable – How will you know when you’ve achieved your goal? Set your own benchmarks to accomplish as you go along, as well as the overall completed goal at the end. Track your progress to help you stay motivated and meet your deadlines.
  • Achievable – Goals need to be attainable, so you must be honest about what is realistically possible, especially within the period you’ve set yourself. Think about how you will achieve your goal and whether it’s realistic based on constraints, such as financial factors.
  • Relevant – Is your goal relevant to you? Does it seem worthwhile and match your other needs? This step ensures your goal matters to you and fits into your broader wants and needs.
  • Time-Based – Every goal should have a target date; a deadline to focus on to help you move forward. When do you want to complete your goal? What can you do in the next six months to work towards this? What can you do right now? Remembering this step helps to prevent every day, mundane tasks from getting in the way of your long-term goals.

Ticking a to-do list

Using the SMART method makes goals more manageable and easier to set out. As you follow each letter of SMART, you are forced to think carefully about the dream, allowing you to make sure that goal is realistic and attainable. For example, if you’re planning on moving to a new house, write that goal down and apply the SMART method so you can start to see your action plan come to life.

S: Where do you want to move to? What’s your budget?

M: When should you have your deposit by? How long until you can start viewings?

A: Realistically, can you afford to move home this year?

R: Will the stress of moving house be worthwhile?

T: What should you do in the next week, month, or six months to stay on track?

We recommend pinning your SMART list to your fridge or sticking a note to your laptop so you can always see it and be aware of the next step.

Take Initiative

Take the initiative with your goals. For example, if you want to begin studying for your degree, spend some time researching which course is right for you, the best universities for your course, and where you want to study. Once the initial research is done, you can start conversations to find out how to apply, when to apply, and what you need to do to prepare and make the transition to a student as stress-free as possible.

Start written on the road

Additionally, if you want to start your own business, start your research. There is so much information available online, so even if you have no clue how to set up a business, set aside time to find out. Message small business owners through sites like LinkedIn and see if any would be willing to have a chat with you about the process. Don’t just collapse on the couch when you get home from work, do the right thing and begin your journey.

One of the main factors to consider is where your business will be based. Choosing home-based work is an excellent idea if you’re looking to keep costs low. At the same time, it can be challenging to separate work from home, so ensuring you don’t overwhelm yourself with business belongings taking over your home is key. Our business self-storage is the best choice, as it provides you with the space you need to store business items, so you don’t lose or damage documents or fall over stock in your spare room. We have storage sites across Scotland and North West England, including:

Maintain a Positive Outlook

Setbacks and failures happen to everyone; what sets apart the people who succeed and those who don’t is how they handle that failure. Don’t let a bad day or a bad week sour your motivation. Instead, take some time to shake it off, return to your SMART goal and pick up where you left off.

Woman cheering looking at laptop

And don’t forget to share your goal with your friends and family; celebrate your wins with them, no matter how small. Their support will help you keep that positive energy focused on your goals.

Evaluate and Re-Adjust

A year is a long time to plan for, and it will go by in a flash. If you find yourself struggling or you think your wants may have changed, there’s no shame in adjusting your goal accordingly. After six months or so, evaluate your progress by looking at where you started in 2023 and what you’ve achieved so far. Maybe you’ll have already completed your goal, or perhaps you didn’t manage to get started. Either way, take some time to reflect on your progress and re-adjust if necessary.

We hope you feel inspired to make the change you’re looking for in 2023. From everyone at Kangaroo Self Storage, we hope this year brings you what you’re looking for. As always, we’re here to provide support in the form of extra space whether you need domestic self-storage when moving home, student self-storage when going to university, or business self-storage when starting your own company.

Chris Stevens CEO / Graham Neville Store Manager in Dundee and Raymond Lynch, Trading Standards Manager at Dundee City Council outside the Dundee store.
 

Trading Standards Scotland Rolls Out Scheme to Target Criminals Dealing in Counterfeit Goods

Trading Standards Services across Scotland have teamed up with colleagues in England and Wales and the UK Intellectual Property Office (IPO) to launch a new initiative aiming to reduce the appeal of self-storage facilities to criminals who deal in counterfeit and other illicit goods.

The scheme ‘The Tick Box: Keep it Real Keep it Legal’ code of practice also has the support of the principal self-storage industry trade association, the Self Storage Association (SSA UK).

In Scotland, Kangaroo Self Storage is one of the first self-storage companies to qualify for the scheme after a successful audit. The award will mean that all of the storage centres in the UK that are operated by Kangaroo Self Storage qualify for the scheme.

Chris Stevens, Chief Executive Officer, Kangaroo Self Storage, said: “Kangaroo Self Storage is pleased to work with local Trading Standards in both Scotland and England and sign up to the Tick Box Scheme. The scheme and code of practice will help us and others in the sector assist Trading Standards and other enforcement agencies to identify and deter criminals looking to store unsafe or illicit goods. The Tick Box scheme is an excellent initiative that recognises the many measures storage operators take to ensure that only appropriate items are stored and that customers’ goods and belongings are secure.”

In recent years, enforcement actions targeted self-storage facilities by Trading Standards in England and Wales and partner agencies, including the police, have resulted in the seizure of thousands of counterfeit items estimated to be worth millions of pounds.

Scottish Trading Standards officers are currently conducting coordinated compliance inspections of self storage facilities. During these inspections, the facility operators will be advised of the Tick Box Scheme and what they need to do to meet its requirements.

The code sets out the procedures designed to prevent the storage of counterfeit and other illicit or unsafe goods by rogue traders and criminal gangs. It also helps the businesses operating self-storage facilities to be sure who is using their premises and for what purpose. Counterfeit goods have been seized from units rented within self-storage facilities in other parts of the UK. The rollout of the Tick Box Scheme in Scotland will help enforcement authorities, with the help of self-storage facility operators, recover the goods before they enter the marketplace, and also identify the individuals behind the crimes.

To join the scheme, a business is audited by their local authority Trading Standards against the terms of the Tick Box code of practice. Businesses that need to take further steps to meet the requirements will be advised and assisted by Trading Standards. Those which meet the requirements of the scheme are provided with the ‘Tick Box’ logo, and posters are displayed within the premises. These act as both an assurance to legitimate customers and a deterrent to anyone considering attempting to store illicit goods or use the facility for any criminal purpose.

The Intellectual Property Office’s Deputy Director of IP Enforcement, Matt Cope, said: “I am delighted that the code of practice is being introduced in Scotland by Trading Standards Services. This builds on the work in England and Wales delivered through an effective partnership between self-storage providers, government and local enforcement, complementing our comprehensive approach to disrupting IP crime.

“Unsafe and illicit goods, such as counterfeits, create real social and environmental harms, and criminals are known to have used self-storage units as part of their activities. By signing up to the code of practice, self-storage providers can help keep communities safer by sending a clear signal to deter criminals who target them while reassuring legitimate customers that they can use their facilities with confidence.”

Helen Bourke, Operations Director at the Self Storage Association, said: “We are pleased to see the rollout of the Tick Box Scheme in Scotland and that another SSA UK member, Kangaroo Self Storage, is supporting the campaign.”

David MacKenzie, Chair of SCOTSS (the Society of Chief Officers of Trading Standards in Scotland, said: “The potential for self storage facilities to be used for illicit and illegal purposes is obvious, and that is why SCOTSS is coordinating inspection visits across the country. Where illegal activities are identified, enforcement action may be necessary, and we will also work with other enforcement agencies, including Police Scotland, where appropriate.

“But our main aim is to support self-storage facilities to prevent the storage of illicit goods on their premises. We encourage all responsible self-storage providers to sign up to the Tick Box scheme – it’s free to join, easy to implement and will provide peace of mind to facility owners about what is being stored on their premises.”

Christmas dinner on a table
 

Christmas, although the most wonderful time of the year, can be stressful, financially demanding, and time-consuming. Trying to organise gifts, family visits, and food everyone will enjoy is challenging, but don’t fear; Kangaroo Self Storage is here to help! Not only can we offer some extra space with our household storage facilities, suitable for storing your personal belongings to make room for Christmas visitors, but we have compiled Roo’s favourite festive recipes to help you gather some inspiration for everyone in your family.

Guaranteed to put a smile on even the fussiest eater’s faces, here are our festive dishes suitable for all!

For the Meat-Lovers: Pigs in Blankets Toad-in-the-Hole

Who doesn’t love a big pile of pigs in blankets and Yorkshire puds? Well, what if we told you you could combine the two festive favourites and offer the meat-eaters pigs in blankets toad-in-the-hole? This mouth-watering recipe feeds four, so feel free to double, half, or adapt the ingredients to suit the number of guests you’ll be feeding (and don’t forget to leave some for Boxing Day leftovers).

Ingredients

  • 140g plain flour
  • 4 eggs
  • 200ml milk
  • 8 rashers of streaky smoked bacon
  • 8 of your favourite sausages
  • 2 tbsp sunflower oil

Pigs in blankets in a bowl

Method

  1. Pre-heat your oven to 220C/200C fan/gas 7
  2. Sieve the flour into a bowl and beat in the eggs until you form a smooth consistency
  3. Whisk in the milk a small amount at a time until the batter is lump-free, and then set aside
  4. Take your sausages and wrap a bacon rasher around each one
  5. Drizzle the sunflower oil into a roasting tin and heat in the oven for just a few minutes
  6. Once heated, add your pigs in blankets and move around the tin until they’re covered in the hot oil
  7. Roast the pigs in blankets for around 15-20 minutes, turning halfway, and cook until brown
  8. Once cooked, remove from the oven, and quickly pour the batter all around the pigs in blankets
  9. Place back in the oven for another 25 minutes, making sure to leave the door closed
  10. Check until your pigs in blanket toad-in-the-hole is deep golden brown, and then serve with the rest of your dishes.

Roo’s Top Tip: Pour your favourite gravy on top for a delicious accompaniment!

Roast potatoes in a dish

For Those Who Are Never Impressed: Roast Potatoes with a Twist

Perhaps you never quite perfected your roastie recipe, or you just fancy trying something new and exciting this Christmas? Whatever it is, we’re certain that these thyme and chestnut roast potatoes will go down a treat and impress any guest.

Ingredients

  • 5-2kg potatoes
  • 150ml vegetable oil
  • A bunch of thyme
  • 180g pouch-cooked chestnuts

Method

  1. Pre-heat your oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6
  2. Cut your potatoes into equal chunks and roughly chop the thyme to prep
  3. Put the potatoes into a pan and cover with cold salted water
  4. Bring the water to the boil before reducing it to simmer for five minutes
  5. Wait until the potatoes are tender before draining
  6. Drizzle the vegetable oil in a roasting tin, then leave in the oven to heat for 10 minutes
  7. Once the oil is heated, remove from the oven and tip in the potatoes and thyme, ensuring they are coated with oil
  8. Roast the potatoes for 40 minutes
  9. After the 40 minutes, turn all the potatoes before returning to the oven for another 10-15 minutes
  10. Add in your chestnuts and roast for another 10 minutes

People handing out Christmas dinner

For the Vegans: Meatless Wellington

If you’re starting Veganuary early or you’re a meatless enthusiast, this meat-free wellington is sure to be the perfect centrepiece to your Christmas feast.

Ingredients

  • 90g dried porcini mushrooms
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large finely chopped onion
  • 250g finely chopped chestnut mushrooms
  • 2 crushed garlic gloves
  • 500g peeled and cut sweet potatoes
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped rosemary
  • 1 tbsp finely chopped sage
  • 100g white breadcrumbs
  • 40g chopped walnuts
  • 40g dried cranberries
  • A grating of nutmeg
  • 2 x 320g sheets of dairy-free puff pastry
  • A dusting of plain flour
  • 3 tbsp of your favourite vegan milk
  • 1 tbsp English mustard

Method

  1. Pour 500ml boiling water over the dried mushrooms in a bowl and make sure they’re well covered before leaving to soak
  2. Heat your olive oil and fry the onion and chestnut mushrooms until soft, for around 20 minutes
  3. Stir in garlic, sweet potatoes, rehydrated mushrooms and the soaking liquid, making sure to leave a little of the water in the bowl as this may contain grit
  4. Cover the pan and cook until the potatoes are soft

Roo’s Top Tip: If the water evaporates quickly, add more to keep everything hydrated.

Family cooking Christmas dinner together

  1. Add your herbs, breadcrumbs, nuts, and cranberries before seasoning with your favourite spices (including the nutmeg)
  2. Once your mixture resembles moist stuffing, turn off the heat and leave it to cool
  3. Unroll one pastry sheet onto floured parchment on a baking tray
  4. Whisk together the milk, mustard, and punch of salt
  5. Once your filling has cooled, spoon it into a neat line down the centre of the pastry sheet, making sure to leave around 2 inches of the border, which you will then brush with the mustard-milk
  6. Once filled, top with the other pastry sheet and press down to remove any air
  7. Make sure it looks presentable by crimping it sealed and removing excess pastry
  8. Cut a steam hole in the middle and finish with a brush of mustard-milk to cover the wellington
  9. Leave to chill in the fridge for 30 minutes and while it’s chilling, pre-heat the oven to 200C/180C fan/gas 6
  10. Brush again with mustard-milk and bake for 30-40 minutes until golden and puffed
  11. Leave to rest for 10 minutes and then serve.

We hope this has given you some festive inspiration for your Christmas feast! Don’t forget, if you need some extra space to fit your family and friends, we’re here to help. We offer household storage across Scotland and North West England, including:

Get in touch to find out more, or hop over to one of our storage sites to speak to our friendly team.

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