Why Industrial Outdoor Storage is in a class of its own

With the rise of e-commerce and recent strain on global supply chains, businesses of all sizes are looking for industrial property close to urban areas and logistics hubs that can help them stay close to customers. Given this rising demand, there is one type of property Mileway customers are asking about more and more: Industrial Outdoor Storage, or IOS.

To meet our customers’ needs, Mileway has invested in IOS and can now offer this type of space to our customers, either as a standalone rental or in combination with warehouse or industrial space.

What is IOS?

IOS is industrial-zoned land that is dedicated for storage use. It can be a simple, fully uncovered yard or may contain some covered areas or indoor facilities, typically covering less than 20% of the total land area.

IOS can be categorized as small ultra-urban sites of less than two acres, large-urban sites of three to seven acres, or larger non-urban sites. These facilities are used for storing items like vehicles, machinery and equipment, shipping containers, building materials, and other loads for which covered warehouse space is not suitable or not needed. While the premise is often basic, these spaces are highly valuable for a wide range of industries including agriculture, construction, transportation, and logistics.

IOS can provide flexible storage solutions for equipment, vehicles, or weather-resistant goods.

IOS has soared in popularity in recent years. The growth of e-commerce has led to demand for same or next-day shipping, which in turn creates a need for storage facilities and safe places to park fleets of delivery vehicles when they are not in use. In addition, supply chain disruption and upheaval at ports has led companies to seek out flexible and reliable storage that can evolve with seasonal needs. In these cases, IOS can provide a valuable complement to warehouse space.

A cost-effective foothold

The greatest appeal of IOS is its cost effectiveness. Without extra buildings to maintain, IOS occupants can enjoy attractive rents, minimal maintenance and utility costs, and affordable access to premium locations close to customers and industrial sites. This can make it suitable as an extra space for logistics companies that need additional large-scale storage, but equally for smaller companies looking for affordable proximity to attractive urban markets. With around 700,000 sq m of IOS in Mileway’s European portfolio, there are options to suit various budgets.

Without the energy demand or materials footprint of a warehouse building, a back-to-basics outdoor storage area can serve as an add-on for organisations that are mindful of their environmental impact.

Possibilities with no ceiling

Another attractive prospect is IOS’s flexibility. Outdoor storage can be scaled up and down, or continually repurposed for a range of applications. It can accommodate inventory overflow from the seasonal fluctuations of an e-commerce company or provide temporary relief when another facility is out of use. By working with Mileway, you can expand your space with the support of commercial real estate experts as your business grows. Plus, you can enjoy the flexibility, security and peace of mind that comes with partnering with a professional and specialist real estate company.

IOS space can be as simple or as sophisticated as you need. Possibilities range from simple, gravelled outdoor storage yards to multi-acre lots with high-quality concrete surfacing. Options like security lighting, secure perimeter fencing, CCTV, controlled access, or gatehouses can help protect valuable goods. Some facilities can accommodate charging for electric vehicles, helping businesses operate more sustainably. In some cases, a storage yard can be combined with a warehouse or other indoor facilities so that occupants can enjoy the best of both worlds.

Take the next step with a professional partner

To discuss IOS options available in your region, contact us.