Question 1

How do I choose the size of my storage unit?

Accepted Answer

Assessing the surface area required to store your belongings is no easy task if you're not already an expert on this matter. Thankfully at HOMEBOX, we happen to be storage specialists! Our teams are here to help and advise you to find the most suitable solution. So don't hesitate to contact us!  In the meantime, here are a few tips to help you estimate your needs. Create an inventory Start off by listing everything you need to store. If they are small items, put them in cardboard boxes rather than on shelves. Boxes come in standard sizes, so they can easily be organised and stacked to maximise efficiency and reduce the space needed. Note: you can easily store around 20 boxes in a 1 sqm space for instance.  If you mostly have large items (furniture, electrical appliances, bicycles, etc.), which cannot be disassembled, take their measurements so you can share them with our experts. Also take into account maximum lengths (if you want to store an antique solid wood table that is 4 metres long for instance, you'll need a storage unit that can accommodate such length, even if the table is your only item to be stored...).  Storage unit adapted to use You can also plan how you will use your storage space. If you're moving for instance, you can afford to stack your boxes and furniture in a small space. But if you want to use your unit as a permanent storage and store clothes or documents that you might need to access regularly, you'll certainly need a bit more space. But don't worry: at HOMEBOX you can change for a smaller or larger unit and transfer your belongings free of charge, depending on how your needs evolve and how your space is used. It's all a matter of organisation Homebox storage units are about as high as your home ceiling (2.70 m). To optimise your rented storage space, our teams will advise you on how to use height optimally to store your belongings. As far as possible, try to store your belongings vertically (furniture that can't be disassembled, mattresses, bicycles, etc.). Be creative and organise your belongings to maximise efficiency. Cardboard boxes or crates are perfect for this. Disassembling your furniture will save you a lot of space, but if that's not possible, you can use them to organise your storage. Put boxes in the wardrobe for instance, papers in the drawers, or even a cardboard box in the stove! A simple calculation Once you've observed these good practices, how to choose the right size for your storage unit? On average, you can store the contents of a 30/40 sqm home in a 3/4 sqm unit, the contents of a 50/70 sqm home in a 5/7 sqm unit, etc. It's an easy rule of thumb: divide by 10 the surface area of your home to calculate the size of the unit you need to rent. If you have a lot of furniture and belongings, you might want to be sage and go for something a little bigger. To help you, HOMEBOX provides a simple and useful tool: an online calculator, which can suggest a storage unit size according to the size of your home and how densely furnished it is. To use this tool, click on "Calculate the size of your storage unit" at the bottom of the page, in the "Our services" column.  A HOMEBOX expert will help you determine the ideal size for your storage unit. You can also visit us at our self-storage facilities: we'll be delighted to meet you and give you all the information you need.

Question 2

How do I book a storage unit?

Accepted Answer

Booking a storage unit ahead of time is the best way to make sure the right sized unit is available when you need it.   It's a useful precaution, and you may do it online, by telephone or in person. Why make a booking? You know you're going to need storage space because you are moving, going on an assignment abroad for several months, need to store your bike, roller skates, various equipment or decorations... ... and you've pretty much decided when you'll need a storage unit? We strongly advise you to book it a few weeks in advance, or as far in advance as possible. That way, you can be sure that you'll have the storage unit you need on the date of your choice: one less thing to worry about. Of course, you don't have to book in advance. It is, however, a very useful precaution, especially during certain periods of the year when demand is high, or in densely populated conurbations. How can I book a storage unit? There are many ways to make a booking. Useful information Once you've made your booking, you'll get to sign your rental contract. You'll need various documents: a bank details form, proof of identity and proof of address less than 2 months old.

Question 3

Why choose HOMEBOX?

Accepted Answer

Safe and well-designed facilities, accessibility, flexibility, on-site teams, extended opening hours, etc.: HOMEBOX guarantees the best services and most competitive offers. So look no further than HOMEBOX for your self-storage needs!  Premium services and facilities A tailor-made contract HOMEBOX helps you determine the storage area you need, and if the storage unit becomes too small or too large over time, you can simply ask for a change at no extra cost, so you always have the right amount of space. And best of all, the rental contract is without commitment. You can rent for 1 month, 2 months, 2 years, etc. You can cancel your contract for free at any time, provided you give your notice on time (at least 8 days before the end of the current month). And your unit is yours as long as you need it, there's no time limit! Such a tailor-made contract provides many benefits, including great value for money. Optimum accessibility HOMEBOX operates the largest network of self-storage facilities in France! Visit homebox.fr to find the facility closest to you. And most of our self-storage facilities provide 24/7 access to your unit thanks to a secure, personal access system. You don't have to adapt to our opening hours, we adapt to your needs! Focus on security HOMEBOX facilities are all equipped with video surveillance as well as intrusion and fire detection systems.  All comings and goings are monitored and only our customers have access to their storage unit using their personal code. At HOMEBOX, only you have a key to your unit. In other words, no-one but you has access to your belongings.

Question 4

What is self-storage?

Accepted Answer

"Are you moving house, moving to another town, running out of space or you need to store away equipment or archives? Then self-storage is the perfect solution for you!  The way it works is simple: users have access to a storage unit in which they can store their belongings in complete safety, and they can access it for free, whenever they want and autonomously. This concept was imported from the United States in the 1990s, and it became popular in France as it met the needs of private individuals and professionals looking for temporary or permanent storage space for their belongings, archives and work tools, all with a flexible contract. HOMEBOX self-storage solution allows you to rent a ventilated storage unit with a surface area ranging from 0.5 sqm to over 60 sqm (with an average height of around 2.7 metres).  This flexible offer gives you the opportunity to organise your space and storage as you see fit. And if your needs evolve over time, you can easily make the switch to a bigger or smaller unit. The rental contract you sign is open-ended (with a minimum rental period of 1 month) and you can change unit size whenever you like. One of the great benefits of HOMEBOX's self-storage solution is the 24/7 access in most of our facilities. Unlike a traditional provider, you don't need to make a prior request to visit the facility: simply use your personal code and access your unit autonomously. Finally, with HOMEBOX, you get complete peace of mind. In addition to 24/7 video surveillance, our facilities are equipped with individual access control, intruder alarms connected to a remote surveillance centre as well as smoke detectors. Everything is done to ensure maximum security for your belongings. Self-storage meets a wide range of needs and provides temporary or long-term solutions. It can be used to store personal belongings while you move house or carry out renovation works for instance.  It's also worth noting that most self-storage facilities are located on the outskirts of towns and cities, so their inhabitants can get a little bit of extra space for their belongings.

Question 5

How long can I rent a storage unit for?

Accepted Answer

At HOMEBOX, there is no committing lease duration for the rental of a storage unit. One month, half a year or several years: you decide for how long you wish to use our services. Please note, however, that the minimum rental period is one month, as stated in our General Terms and Conditions."

Question 6

How can I contact HOMEBOX?

Accepted Answer

Need information on the availability of a storage unit or an estimate of the storage surface area or volume? Want to know more about pricing? Need a quote? Ready to make a booking? Here's how you can contact HOMEBOX via telephone, post, email or even on social media. Get in touch with HOMEBOX storage experts on the phone If you would like to receive support from our storage specialists: Request a quote or book online You can use our online form to request a quote: on our website, click on "Pricing" or "Pricing and Bookings" and fill in the form. You will be contacted within 24 hours by one of our experts. Are you a large company considering multi-site storage at several HOMEBOX facilities? You may call our Key Accounts Department directly (+33 (0)1 41 27 46 48), or send us an email detailing your request (comptes-nationaux@homebox.fr). Visit a storage facility near you! Of course, you are always welcome to pay us a visit at one of our facilities, of which there are nearly 100 throughout France, as well as in Switzerland, Germany and Spain. We can discuss needs, share advice and give you a tour of our storage units to find one that suits your needs!

Question 7

How much does self-storage cost?

Accepted Answer

HOMEBOX provides a storage solution that adapts to users' needs. The cost of renting a storage unit depends on various criteria that we can discuss and define together, including:  The offer is exclusive of insurance* and includes, among other things:  *Insurance for belongings in storage is compulsory. It's up to you: you can choose HOMEBOX's own insurance (€12 for €3,000 of guaranteed capital, €16 for €5,000 of guaranteed capital and €32 for €10,000 of guaranteed capital). For more information, please contact our teams."

Question 8

How is security ensured for my storage unit?

Accepted Answer

The belongings you wish to store may be useful, precious or have a strong sentimental value.  HOMEBOX strives to safekeep your belongings by relying on high-quality installations and equipment: alarms, anti-intrusion devices, fire detection, 24/7 video surveillance, ventilated units, etc. Everything is done to ensure complete peace of mind. Only you have access to your storage unit! HOMEBOX relies on a wide range of systems to ensure the security of your storage unit and the goods in it. This way, HOMEBOX makes sure that only you have access to your storage unit and the goods in it. No risk of damage HOMEBOX facilities have numerous security features that other storage solutions simply do not have (like cellars, attics, garages, etc.), thus providing a high level of protection for your belongings: Our general terms and conditions prohibit the storage of flammable, explosive or corrosive products, etc. for maximum safety and to prevent potential risks. Safety is a shared responsibility HOMEBOX also expects its customers to comply with the terms of use of storage units as well as the internal regulations of the facilities, which have been designed with your safety and that of your belongings in mind. Finally, to guarantee a clean and safe space, you must keep your box clean and above all, comply with storage prohibitions. You must not store perishable products or waste for instance, which might deteriorate. Do not store raw plant fibres, which could attract pests (insects, mice, etc.). Dangerous products, aerosol cans and other flammable products are also prohibited to avoid any risk of explosion, fire, corrosion, pollution, etc.

Question 9

How can I best organise my storage unit?

Accepted Answer

Organising your belongings before storing them is the key!  Here are 4 tips to help you optimally store your belongings:

Question 10

How do I change storage unit during my contract?

Accepted Answer

Your needs have changed? You can change your contract too!  Rent a smaller or larger storage unit as soon as you want. With units ranging from 2 sqm to 50 sqm or even more, HOMEBOX has the perfect storage solution for you.. A flexible contract for changing needs Whether you're a private individual or a professional, your needs may evolve depending on the season, opportunities or other criteria. Do you run a business in a tourist area with fluctuating volumes of goods to be stored throughout the year? Are you a private individual with a lot of boxes to store temporarily because your student son is coming home with his belongings during the summer? You can change storage units as your needs evolve, for a solution that is always practical and comfortable. Your Homebox contract is flexible and can be changed free of charge.  When you choose a storage unit for rent, you're guaranteed:  The storage unit you need is waiting for you at HOMEBOX! HOMEBOX self-storage facilities have a whole range of storage units of various sizes to meet the needs of private individuals and professionals. The vast majority of our facilities offer units from 1 to 50 sqm. And of course there are also non-partitioned areas intended for businesses. With an average height of 2.7 m, our storage units offer volumes ranging from less than 5.40 m3 to more than 135 m3... If you still can't decide, you can use our online tool to help you estimate the right storage area for your needs.".

Question 11

How many unit sizes are available?

Accepted Answer

HOMEBOX facilities offer a wide range of storage unit sizes and surface areas to meet the needs of all customers: private individuals who are moving house, looking for extra space or currently carrying out renovations as well as professionals who want to store their merchandise, archives or point-of-sale advertising material. Our boxes are generally 2.7 m high, so we can typically offer storage volumes ranging from 1.5 to over 160 m3.. Use our online tool To estimate the storage space you might need, you can use our online tool available in the "Pricing and bookings" section featured on the dedicated web page of each HOMEBOX facility. By specifying the surface area of the home (or room) and its "profile" (lightly, moderately, or densely furnished), you will get a better idea of the storage space you might need. Don't hesitate to ask our teams for more information by requesting a quote, discussing your needs over the phone or visiting one of our facilities, to find out the most suitable storage solution for you.

Question 12

What are the steps to renting out my own space on Homebox?

Accepted Answer

Have you decided to rent out a space that you don't use via the HOMEBOX peer-to-peer storage platform?   We'll give you all the advice you need to make the most out of this space: learn how to make it practical and attractive so you can rent it out more easily. Prepare your space Start by checking that your space is clean and tidy. A thorough clean is always advisable: dust and cobwebs are not very attractive! A lick of white paint on the walls can also give it a dapper look at little expense. A great way to make your listing stand out. Why not place some racks on the wall where angle brackets can be fitted, so they can be installed at the desired height? A few racks, brackets and boards, and you've got a converted modular space that will undoubtedly appeal to potential tenants. They'll be able to store boxes, items, archives, etc., and access them easily. Of course, this isn't compulsory, but it can make all the difference if there are several spaces on offer in your area! Secure your space If you're offering a private space that your tenant can access independently, you need to make it as secure as possible. You might want to change or reinforce the door, install an angle iron and a strong lock! Contact your insurance company and landlord if necessary. Check with your insurance company that you do have multi-risk insurance coverage. If you are not a property owner, you will also need written authorisation from your landlord to rent out your space. Create your account on the HOMEBOX platform Creating an account is quick and easy. You will be asked for various details about you and your space. Make sure these are accurate so that everything goes smoothly. We recommend measuring your space accurately rather than guessing, for instance. Bear in mind that potential tenants will be able to contact you via the platform without access to your full contact details: your privacy is protected. Write your listing This is a very important stage: the listing often makes the difference between two similar spaces. A good listing feels professional, includes as many details as possible, and answers potential questions future tenants may have. Make it more inviting by adding polite turns of phrase, and of course, proofread to avoid spelling mistakes. Finally, photos are essential. Don't just take a quick shot with your smartphone: work on the lighting, take time to frame your shots properly, etc. Take a photo of the space, but also of all relevant details: equipment, door, access. The space should feel neat and inspire confidence!

Question 13

How do I cancel my rental?

Accepted Answer

We've served our purpose and you now want to empty your storage unit?   Here is some information on the subject. At the end of the first month, your HOMEBOX rental contract is automatically renewed so you can continue to use your storage unit with complete peace of mind. If you wish to cancel your rental, you must inform our team within a certain timeframe. Please notify the HOMEBOX team at least 8 days before the end of the current month. This way, they can manage the availability of storage units for future users. You must give at least 8 days' notice before the end of the current month. Failing to do so, the rental contract will be automatically renewed and an invoice will be issued for the following month's rental. To cancel your rental, please send a registered letter with acknowledgement of receipt to your HOMEBOX facility. You can also send your request via the dedicated online form available in the "Your online formalities, I'm leaving my storage unit" section.

Question 14

Can professionals also use HOMEBOX?

Accepted Answer

Professionals, self-employed, craftsmen as well as small, medium-sized or large companies may also need to store goods for short or long periods of time: archives, furniture, tools, merchandise, point-of-sale advertising material, etc.  HOMEBOX provides self-storage services and solutions that perfectly match the needs of businesses.  Permanent or temporary storage As a professional or business, you may be short on space. Are you an accountant or architect who needs to store years of archives (as you are legally required to) and don't have access to a well-ventilated space to do so? Is your company carrying out renovation works on its premises and you need to store furniture and office equipment? Do you run a small business from a strategic city-centre location but don't have a dedicated space to store your inventory? In all these situations, renting a storage unit is a valuable option! With no fixed-term commitment, our self-storage solutions provide professionals with the flexibility they need, whether they are looking for long-term or temporary storage. Furthermore, it's very easy to switch to a larger or smaller unit if, for instance, your inventory fluctuates throughout the year. Solutions tailored to your needs HOMEBOX provides services that are tailored to the needs of professionals: We also provide specific services for key accounts (large companies with multi-site requirements) with a dedicated team and access to:

Question 15

Do I need to insure the belongings stored in my unit?

Accepted Answer

When you rent a HOMEBOX storage unit, you must take out insurance to protect your belongings against all risks.   For more convenience, HOMEBOX offers very affordable insurance packages, which you can subscribe to when signing your rental contract. You can of course use the insurer of your choice as well. Compulsory insurance If you are renting one of our units to store your personal belongings, furniture, archives or any type of goods, you'll need to take out insurance to cover it. Like the vast majority of our customers, you can opt for HOMEBOX's own insurance policy, or turn to your usual insurance company. Whatever your choice, you are required to insure your stored belongings. For more information, get in touch with our teams at the storage facility or call 3007 (free). Your insurer... or HOMEBOX's own insurance You can contact any insurance company to learn more about their terms. Some of them might ask you to take out an extended cover under your existing home insurance policy. If you use your own insurer, you will need to provide proof of insurance before you start using your storage unit. The insurance policy must cover all stored goods against fire, explosion, theft, water damage as well as risks inherent to the use of a storage unit. Like many private individuals and professionals who use our services, you can also subscribe to HOMEBOX's own insurance when signing your rental contract. It's so simple! HOMEBOX provides up to 7 types of coverage, and up to €30,000 of guaranteed capital. Comply with our terms and conditions! Please make sure to comply with our General Terms and Conditions, for your own safety of course, but also to ensure maximum coverage from your insurance in the event of a claim.

Question 16

Storage units are not a place to do business

Accepted Answer

You can store all your belongings in your storage unit. You can collect your things whenever you like. But it's not a place where you can tinker, take a nap or carry out a professional activity.  No professional activities allowed... A storage unit is a space "for storage only", as per our General Terms and Conditions. Under no circumstances may you: In short, no professional activity may be carried out in the storage unit. However, if you are a professional, you can of course store all or part of your inventory or goods there.  ... and in fact, the same goes for private activities Your storage unit is not a living or leisure space either. Of course, you may rest for a moment on an armchair stored in your box after carrying piles of boxes! But you can't sleep in your box, have a picnic, or even invite friends over to play cards...  Our General Terms and Conditions also state that it is forbidden to play music in your box.  Generally speaking, you must not do anything that might disturb other customers. And they must not do anything that might disturb you. All the storage, only the storage When you rent a unit from us, you are renting a dedicated storage space. The contract between you and HOMEBOX is therefore very different from the lease that binds a flat tenant to their landlord. For instance, you are not allowed to modify the unit in any way (paint it, drill holes in the walls to put up shelves, stick posters, add stickers, etc.). And of course, smoking is not allowed in the HOMEBOX facility, for obvious health and safety reasons! However you are free to access your storage unit whenever you want to drop off your belongings or pick them up as you need them. That's what the unit is for!

Question 17

How does self storage work?

Accepted Answer

Renting a HOMEBOX self-storage unit couldn't be easier!  Here are the 5 main steps: 1. . Choose the right size for your storage unit with the help of your HOMEBOX expert.  HOMEBOX facilities provide storage units ranging from 0.5 sqm to over 60 sqm. To find out the right size for your needs, simply select the HOMEBOX facility of your choice after entering your town or postcode in the search bar on the homepage. Then send a request for a quote (or booking request) from the ""Pricing and bookings"" section. An expert will contact you as soon as possible to make you an offer at a competitive price.  2. Signing your rental contract.  Once you've chosen your storage unit and accepted the offer, you can sign your contract with our teams at the facility. 3. Set up your unit and store your belongings.  Your storage unit is a bit like an extension of your home or office. You can arrange the layout and store your belongings as you wish. To make it easier for you to move in, we can provide you with handling equipment (trolleys, hand trucks, pallet trucks, etc.) free of charge.  Once you're all sorted, you can rest easy: our video surveillance cameras, intruder alarms connected to a remote surveillance centre, fire detection systems and strict access controls ensure the safety of your belongings 24/7. 4. Access your self-storage unit whenever you want.  Nearly 9 out of 10 HOMEBOX facilities offer 24/7 access to units. Thanks to a unique personal code, each tenant can access their belongings whenever they want (at night, on Sundays, public holidays, etc.), without any additional cost or constraint.  5. Want to cancel your rental? It's only goodbye!  Note that when your rental contract expires, it is automatically renewed. If you wish to terminate your contract, you must inform us at least 8 days before the end of the current month. For more information, please contact our teams.

Question 18

Can I buy boxes and packing material on site?

Accepted Answer

Of course you can! At each of our HOMEBOX self-storage facilities, you'll find a shop that sells boxes, packing material and accessories at the reception desk. Of course, the shop is open to everyone: even if you're not currently renting a unit, you can still get all the equipment you need.  Here's an overview of what you'll find in our facilities as well as on our online shop:  Remember that all HOMEBOX facilities provide handling equipment free of charge. This generally includes: dollies, hand trucks and pallet trucks.

Question 19

Can I change to a bigger or small storage unit during the term of my contract?

Accepted Answer

At HOMEBOX, our aim is to provide you with a solution that is perfectly suited to your needs, and to how they evolve over time. As a user of a HOMEBOX self-storage unit, you can upgrade to a larger or smaller storage unit by simply making a request to our teams. The HOMEBOX self-storage solution offers:

Question 20

When and how can I access my storage unit?

Accepted Answer

One of the main benefits of the HOMEBOX self-storage solution is that you can access your belongings independently, whenever you want and at no extra cost. Our teams are available to advise and help you during reception opening hours. The vast majority of our storage facilities also offer 24/7 access to storage units. So don't hesitate to ask our teams for more information!

Question 21

What documents are required to rent a storage unit?

Accepted Answer

To finalize your HOMEBOX storage rental contract, our teams will ask you to provide certain documents. France If you are renting as a private individual, you must provide at least: If you are hosted by someone, you must also provide the ID and proof of address of the person hosting you. If you are renting for professional purposes, you must provide: Switzerland If you are renting as a private individual, you must provide: If you are renting for professional purposes, a commercial register extract will also be required. Germany If you are renting as a private individual, you must provide: If you are renting for professional purposes, you must provide:

Question 22

What are the terms and modes of payment?

Accepted Answer

Your contract is signed: you are now renting a unit in a HOMEBOX self-storage facility. What happens next on the administrative side? Below you will find everything you need to know about invoices and payments. Your monthly invoices  Each month, HOMEBOX issues an invoice corresponding to the amount due for your rental as well as for the insurance if you have subscribed to one of our insurance policies. Depending on your preferences, the monthly invoice can be: Please note that our IT teams are currently working on a functionality to allow online access to invoices, directly from your account on homebox.fr. We'll keep you updated as soon as this feature is available. Payment: any way you like!  You can pay your invoices with: What happens in the event of late payment?  Payments must be made at the beginning of each month. In the event of late payment (over 15 days), HOMEBOX may apply late fees. Payment conditions are outlined in our General Terms and Conditions, so don't hesitate to give them a read here, and ask any question you may have to our teams in our facilities. Payment issues  If you have a problem paying your invoices, contact your HOMEBOX team without delay. We will find a solution together. However you should be aware that a reminder procedure may be implemented and this can even lead to the termination of your contract if we don't hear from you.

Most asked questions