Moving out of the garage into a proper unit is a big step. Here's what to pin down.
Size
Measure what you have now and what you'll add in the next two years. Racking turns height into space, so eaves height matters as much as floor area. A van-based trade often manages in 400 to 800 sq ft; small manufacturing or e-commerce with racking usually wants 1,000 to 2,500 sq ft.
Power
Three-phase power is essential for some machinery and expensive to add. Ask whether it's there and how electricity is billed. Some sites sub-meter and recharge.
Doors and access
Check the roller shutter width and height, parking for you and visitors, and whether a lorry or pallet delivery can get in.
Use class
Units have a planning use, usually light industrial, general industrial or storage and distribution. Make sure yours fits what you'll actually do.
Costs on top of rent
Business rates, service charge, insurance, utilities and VAT. Some operators quote one all-in monthly figure. See our guide to business rates on small units.
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