Self-storage in shipping containers on a secured plot
Starting costs about $70,300 in the United States and 12,300,000 NGN in Nigeria. After 12 months, this business can bring in about $2,010 net per month in the United States and 452,000 NGN in Nigeria. The starting money comes back in about 3 years, with 15 hours of work per week.
Mundyo estimates, data as of 2026-11-02.
See the numbers for my countryFree, no account, in the currency of 250 countries.
The numbers
| Country | To start | Net per month (month 12) |
|---|---|---|
| United States | $70,300 | $2,010 |
| Nigeria | 12,300,000 NGN | 452,000 NGN |
| United Kingdom | £47,900 | £1,420 |
| Kenya | 3,120,000 KES | 65,400 KES |
| India | 1,590,000 INR | 47,700 INR |
Amounts adjusted to each country's price and income levels.
The problem
People moving house, tradespeople and small shops lack space to store furniture, equipment or goods, and existing options are rare or expensive.
The solution
Install second-hand shipping containers on a fenced, lit and monitored plot and rent them monthly, with access by appointment or code.
Your customers
People moving or renovating, tradespeople, online sellers, small shops and associations in a suburban area.
How you make money
€60 to €180 per month per container depending on size and region, insurance and padlocks as extras.
Competition
Self-storage centres, removal companies' storage, garages and cellars rented between individuals.
Who has an edge
A landowner with a well-connected plot or a patient investor, able to obtain permits and guarantee flawless security.
The risks
Planning permits sometimes refused, slow fill-up, theft or water damage, payback over several years.
The first 3 steps
- Check with local authorities which permits containers require.
- Compare prices of used containers, fencing, lighting and cameras.
- Pre-book units with tradespeople and removal companies.
How the numbers are calculated
Example in a high-income eurozone country, at month 12: revenue €2,400 − costs €1,000 = €1,400 net per month. Revenue: 20 containers × €120 a month. Costs: land lease, container depreciation, insurance, security, social contributions. For other countries, Mundyo adjusts the starting budget to the price level (World Bank) and the income to prices and customers' purchasing power, then converts at the day's exchange rate.
Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to start: Container self-storage?
About $70,300 (United States), 12,300,000 NGN (Nigeria), £47,900 (United Kingdom), depending on the country. Mundyo calculates the amount for 250 countries.
How much can you earn per month?
After 12 months, about $2,010 (United States), 452,000 NGN (Nigeria), £1,420 (United Kingdom) net per month, after costs.
How long until I get my starting money back?
About 3 years, with 15 hours of work per week.
What are the risks?
Planning permits sometimes refused, slow fill-up, theft or water damage, payback over several years.
Where do I start?
1. Check with local authorities which permits containers require. 2. Compare prices of used containers, fencing, lighting and cameras. 3. Pre-book units with tradespeople and removal companies.
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