Our last blog talked about some of the strangest things recovered from abandoned self storage units, but it never ends. Here are some more amazing and unusual items to demonstrate how eccentric people can be.

Electric Chair

Let’s start with the rather gruesome find of an electric chair, which left staff at a US storage facility speculating on its presence. One also wonders who the last unfortunate person to sit on it might have been when in use.

Unexploded Hand Grenade

This caused a bit of a commotion at a unit in Michigan when this live device was found, causing a bomb disposal unit to be hastily called.

Burt Reynolds ‘Things’

Jaws dropped as the contents of a container once owned by the movie celebrity were revealed, including the canoe used in the iconic 1972 film Deliverance. Amongst the other numerous items were a horse carriage made by Dolly Parton, a toy car from Smokey & the Bandit, and a doctor’s note about an op Burt had in 1955.

Body Bits

There have been many shocking things discovered in storage units……like body parts. One of the less horrific is a jar of gallstones, and one guy kept a severed leg he lost during a plane crash, so he could eventually be buried with it!

Loved Ones

Urns are often kept in storage units, but one family kept the body of their Grandma in a casket for 17 years in one.

Michael Jackson Songs

One lucky new storage unit owner found himself with a unit previously owned by Michael Jackson’s father. It contained around 250 unheard and unreleased recordings of the singer some featuring Tina Turner. There was no existing legal ownership, as they were recorded when Jackson was between recordings!

We don’t recommend storing some of the more whacky items listed here at our Cubic Storage facilities. We are however happy to advise on your storage needs in Gosforth, Ponteland, Newcastle & Wallsend.

Self Storage, Holiday Storage, Container Hire, Short or Long Term Rental, Ponteland, Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Apart from the more mundane [yet practical] uses we find for self storage, there some extremely interesting items chilling in storage units. Popular shows about the contents of self storage units and containers have awoken people’s interest in the secret world of storage. Even many celebs utilise these handy spaces to keep their weird and wonderful items and collections.

Million Dollar Comic

Celebs like Nicholas Cage is famously an avid reader and collector of comic books [everyone to his own] which is why he must have been gutted to be burgled in 2000. He possessed a first edition copy of Action Classics worth £1 million dollars that was stolen. There is a happy ending to this story though, when 10 years later it was found in an abandoned self storage container.

Hidden Bond Car

In 1989, somebody purchased a storage container with contents at a Long Island auction, and got a bit of a surprise on opening it. Contained inside was the original Lotus Submarine Car used by Roger Moore in Bond film, The Spy Who Loved Me. A little dented and with a few missing tyres, the impressive vehicle was restored and shown in various museum exhibitions for 24 years. It was finally sold to Elon Musk in 2013 for £616,000.

Rocket in Space

How about the storage unit auctioned off in Florida which contained a NASA rocket and countdown clock. The items were placed in storage after a space programme was discontinued. Then there are the garments of soul diva Aretha Franklin, found in a unit in Michigan. They say the clothes were placed there following a fire at her home, then probably forgotten about.

These are just a few examples of the fascinating tales of self storage units and containers, contact Cubic Storage if you have anything you want to store. We cater to customers all over the North East in places like Jarrow, North Shields, Whitley Bay and Tynemouth.

Self Storage, Holiday Storage, Container Hire, Short or Long Term Rental, Whiteley Bay & Tynemouth

Owners of small businesses need to be able to do a sort of juggling act, balancing finances, dealing with sales, organising any staff etc. If this isn’t done efficiently, chaos can often ensue, with paperwork, bills, orders etc piling up or getting mislaid. All this unnecessary activity can lead to stress and wasted time.

Clutter = Chaos

If business owners are disorganized, they will probably find themselves searching through tons of paperwork, invoices or files. This is frequently the case with a virtual office too, either through lack of motivation or digital knowledge. Using and sorting separate folders for important emails, bills and documents can be confusing if you aren’t sure what you’re doing. There’s nothing more frustrating than not being able to lay your hands on some information when needed.

The Taxman

Keeping up to speed with your documents is essential when it comes time to file your taxes. If the business undergoes an audit, missing documents can become a legal problem. Proper filing of invoices, receipts and statements, and getting your head around basic accounting software can be a huge help. This will keep the tax office, and company accountant happy.

Customer Service

As we all know, it’s a very competitive world, so keeping customers happy is crucial to success. This means dealing with enquiries effectively and as soon as possible. Doing this is a great way to keep existing customers, win new customers and receive excellent reviews.

Working from Home

Whether you have an office space or work from your home in Ponteland, you should consider hiring a self storage container. Many businesses are turning to this type of solution especially in recent times. An increase in home working has created a situation where people are having to declutter to provide more work space. You can also store files and other paperwork, as well as stock, equipment and packaging. Maybe you have excess furniture that you need temporary storage for? Let us help with your storage needs by calling 07531 435637.

Self Storage, Holiday Storage, Container Hire, Short or Long Term Rental, Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Lots of industries that are property based, have taken a hit and struggled over the past year or so, due to the Coronavirus. However, the self storage industry has seen the opposite happen. Self storage has experienced growth in customers according to the Self Storage Association UK. The industry has experienced a steady increase in occupancy of 2.9 points year on year to 79.2%. Revenue has also been regular, as customers more often prefer to pay for their units by direct debit or other non-contact methods.

Post lockdown saw occupancy levels rise to higher levels than pre Covid, and enquiries reached record levels. This was probably a result of uncertainty about the future, and people wanting to know their best options for storage. Self storage has always been about life changing events and the virus is just one of them. Some core reasons for using self storage include:-

• People getting divorced and having to move the possessions around
• People moving back home to their family from rented accommodation with nowhere to store their belongings
• Businesses forced to decrease their furniture etc to enable easier social distancing
• Downsizing companies needing somewhere to keep stock, appliances etc
• An increase in working from home meaning businesses reducing their office space
• Families down-sizing their homes because of financial concerns related to the pandemic

Self storage businesses are also extremely flexible, allowing people to change their requirements as and when needed. Contracts can be long or short and usually may be updated with very little notice. This can be helpful, especially in these uncertain times, when everything is a worry.

Make sure that the self storage company you choose takes security seriously with additions such as CCTV, perimeter fencing and state of the art locking systems. 24/7 access is also a bonus in places like Ponteland, which is what you will find here at Cubic Storage.

Self Storage, Holiday Storage, Container Hire, Short or Long Term Rental, Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Apparently many universities and further education establishments are trying to tempt students back with promises of a sort of pre-Covid student life. Statements offer a ‘totally open campus’ or an experience ‘much more like usual’. This isn’t really working though, as many students and academics believe a more realistic picture should be portrayed. They think that there should be no glossing over of the fact that continued disruption to classes and social life is likely.

The attitude of the universities is kind of understandable though, as competition to attract students will be particularly fierce this year. Many smaller institutions fear that the more acclaimed universities will once again expand and snaffle the majority of students. After all, the £9,250 that each student pays is not to be sneezed at. Universities such as University College London, Sheffield University, Edinburgh University and Ulster University tell students to expect ‘blended’ learning. This means online lectures where possible and reduced in-person workshops or seminars.

But some university websites make hardly any mention of the pandemic, or simply say that the next academic year could look very similar to pre-Covid years. Of course this is what a lot of students want to hear, and who can blame them! Professor Karen Stanton, vice-chancellor of Solent University, Southampton says: “We have exciting plans in place to bring all our students back to campus in the ‘new normal’ we’ll be facing.”

However, professor of higher education at the University of Oxford, Simon Marginson, says institutions who are struggling might be tempted to tell students what they think they want to hear. “They will pitch it as normal or near normal higher education in term 1 of 2021-22,” he says. “After the experience of the current academic year, we know this is unfair to students.” Professor Marginson says universities will probably end up having to offer online as well as face to face learning, and students may be once again faced with studying in their bedrooms.

Don’t forget if you’re studying and in need of affordable storage space in Gosforth, Cubic Storage are bound to have the exact unit or container you require!

Self Storage, Holiday Storage, Container Hire, Short or Long Term Rental, Gosforth

There are a number of extremely sensible and practical reasons for using self storage, but the more frivolous ones can be fun. People love to collect ‘things’. You only have to discover a friend collects ceramic pigs, and everywhere you go you seem to notice an unusual ceramic pig! It seems once people start, they can’t sop and their collection soon begins to take over the living space. This can become a source of contention among partners and the family. This is why many collectors rent a self storage unit, where their treasured collection can grow unabated. There is also less chance of them gathering dust getting damaged or causing a red face for the collector.

Belly Fluff Anyone?

Stamp collecting has always been a popular pursuit for many, but there are also plenty of bizarre collections around. One of the most strange collections is Australian, Graham Barker’s collection of his own navel fluff! He began his er…different collection in 1984, which is now stored in three large glass jars. It’s also led to appearances on many of America’s biggest talk shows.

Bagus Vomitous

Another surprising collection comes in the form of aeroplane sick bags [hopefully empty], which are highly sought after! Who knew this was a thing? Niek Vermeulen from Holland, is down in the Guinness Book of World Records as having the largest collection. This consists of 5,468 [at the last count] of different sick bags from more than a thousand airlines.

Other impressive [sort of] collections include 1800 types of historic toothpaste and powders, 5,239 unique rubber ducks and 6,652 different table napkins. Some collections are generally considered more acceptable or desirable than others, such as British Royal Family memorabilia, musical records, cars and chocolate wrappers.

At Cubic Storage you will find high quality units and containers at affordable hire rates to keep your collections in Whickham, whatever they may be, in mint condition!

Self Storage, Holiday Storage, Container Hire, Short or Long Term Rental, Whickham & Newcastle-upon-Tyne

North Shields, Tyne and Wear, is an historic town which dates back to 1225. One of the many tourist attractions of this area are The Lights of North Shields. These 16th century buildings incorporate permanent lights, once intended to safely guide ships. The Wooden Dolly statue also draws many an interested visitor, and has been replaced 6 times since it first appeared in 1814. If you are intending to move to North Shields or another part of the North East of England, here are a few reasons you may be pleased with your decision : –

• Regeneration and Investment have in recent years grown significantly here, and planning and design is focused on enhanced living. Improved play areas, modernised town centres and new build homes abound. Quaysides are being transformed into leisure hot spots, and some extremely desirable apartments are popping up.
• Employment is continually increasing in the North East, as major companies clamour to invest. Many sectors within the digital industry are migrating to the North East, along with scientific research bodies and chemical processing specialists. Tens of thousands of jobs have been created by major manufacturers such as Nissan. Tourism is of course yet another big employer in this part of the world as people flock to take in the sights.
• Eye Popping Scenery with numerous places of interest which boast breathtaking views from the rugged wilds of the Northumberland Coast to the North Pennines. Stunning scenery can be found in such places as Keider Forest and Park, Durham Heritage Coast, Hadrians Wall and Whitley Bay.
• Housing Prices in North East England are some of the lowest in the UK, with something for all budgets
• North Easterners are renowned for their warmth, friendliness and willingness to chat to or help a stranger. The locals are extremely proud of their heritage and culture, and aren’t shy about telling you. You’ll be feeling at home before you know it.
   

Remember, if you need to hire a self storage container during your move to North Shields, contact Cubic Storage on 07531 435637, we’ll be delighted to assist.

Self Storage, Holiday Storage, Container Hire, Short or Long Term Rental, North Shields

Self storage containers are being used for all kinds of things these days, some of which will leave you open mouthed! Modifying or re-purposing items intended for one use in order to fulfil a different function is a big trend nowadays and self storage units and containers are no exception. Here are some of the ideas people have come up with:-

Affordable Homes

Structurally sound, dry and inexpensive, shipping containers are increasingly being recognised as substitute housing. They are fairly portable, so easy to set up wherever needed, and can be tailored as desired. These metal boxes are favoured by those wishing to decrease their environmental impact. From luxury homes to temporary solutions for the homeless, storage containers are used world wide as unique, robust abode options.

Schools

We often think of storage containers as purely somewhere to store excess belongings, but in some undeveloped parts of the world they are being used as schools. With the addition of windows, air conditioning or heating, these low cost spaces are ideal where traditional school buildings are not possible. In fact they are sometimes used in countries like the UK as additional annexes or ‘add ons’.

Pop up Shops, Cafés and Restaurants

All kinds of businesses like shops, bars, cafés, art galleries and even theatres now use storage containers as temporary pop up facilities. This is an extremely modern concept and one that works well for everyone. Combinations of multiple containers are also being used as more permanent solutions.

These are just a few of the ways that storage containers are solving modern day issues, other uses include sheds, natural disaster shelters, home offices, garden nurseries, garages and as hobby spaces such as dark rooms. At Cubic Storage though, we recommend more traditional storage uses, check out our website to see what we offer.

Safe, Dry Summer Self Storage, Holiday Storage, Container Hire, Newcastle, Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Autumn brings with it a sort of calming effect, and a slowing down after the hectic summer months. Most people like to retire into their cosy homes as it gets colder and the nights draw in. We can look forward to the sparkle and excitement of Christmas once more, and perhaps a even bit of snow?

This season is all about rich colours and sumptuous inviting textures, but a complete redecoration isn’t required. Here are a few pointers on achieving a wonderful seasonal feel for your home with just a few quick changes.

1. Colour Choice

The colours we surround ourselves with are one of the keys to creating our desired atmosphere at whatever time of year. Summer colours like pale blue and mint green remind us of warm, sunny islands, but would feel a little too cool in the winter. A colour palette consisting of shades like orange, brown and mustard will start to feel right during the onset of autumn. Once winter is in full swing, lush deep greens, browns and reds work their magic, and the transition is fairly simple!

Warm hues can be added by changing over soft furnishings, curtains, cushions and items like vases and maybe rugs. Of course which shades you can use successfully, will depend on the overall tone of your existing décor. Cooler colours throughout your home will look great when neutrals like beige, rust, orange and brown are added.

2. Tactile Textures

Textures are excellent for adding interest, and rooms can look a little flat without a variety of textural elements. The cooler months offer an ideal opportunity to fill your abode with chunky throws, shaggy rugs and tactile cushions. Top off the look by bringing home pine cones, chestnuts and unusual twigs to place in bowls, baskets or on wreaths.

3. Luxurious Lighting

Cosy evenings in front of the fire will feel homely and welcoming with the use of corner lights and table lamps placed here and there. Candles and fairy lights also create a gorgeous living space. Consider cost effective self storage units at Cubic Storage, to store away your seasonal items until they are needed again.

Self Storage, Holiday Storage, Container Hire, Short or Long Term Rental, Newcastle-upon-Tyne

We understand that for students certain times of the year are more stressful than others, usually just when you don’t need any extra stress. When nearing the end of the year, there are a thousand and one things to think about like what to wear to the end of year ball, which parties to attend, where to spend the holidays, oh and of course there’s the odd exam!

There is one dilemma we can help with here a Cubic Storage, and that’s where to leave your belongings so that they are safe and undamaged. We have a range of storage units and containers in the North East, perfect for keeping your things undisturbed, until you need them.

Finished College

Perhaps you have finished college, and are returning home after enjoying a summer break. We offer a convenient and affordable place to store possessions and valuables, fully protected by state of the art security features.

Sharing Digs

Sometimes students are sharing digs with others, that can be pretty compact, meaning not a lot of space for ‘things’. Also if you go away and your flatmate has guests over regularly, do you know your stuff is safe? This can be frustrating, and cause battles, which is why a cheap storage unit is an ideal option.

Sports Equipment

It’s surprising how belongings can accumulate when in college or university, if for instance you wish to get involved in social activities like sports and outdoor pursuits. These can require the purchase of equipment that take up space. So again, Self Storage is the answer!

Cheap & Convenient

You will want a fast, low cost storage solution, available all year round that you can access when you need to. Some students even share a storage unit for things they don’t use on a daily basis, to lower the price even more.

Call us for information on what we offer on 07531 435637.

Safe, Dry Summer Self Storage, Holiday Storage, Container Hire, Newcastle, Newcastle-upon-Tyne