An unstaffed site (also called an unmanned site) is a storage facility where no member of staff is there day to day. Customers let themselves in with an electronic entry system during the access hours, and help comes by phone or from a team based elsewhere. Security doesn't rely on anyone being present: it comes from access control, alarms and cameras.
At Wigwam
Our published pages don't agree on this, so don't assume either way for your site. Many of our guides say our sites are unmanned; our Bromsgrove site opened in 2022 as an "unmanned self storage solution". Several location pages, though, list an on-site team, and Chipping Norton has a reception open Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm and Saturday 9am to 2pm.
What you can rely on, whether or not anyone is there:
- you let yourself in with smart entry (or a PIN at Chipping Norton), 6am to 10pm, except at Cheltenham, whose published hours conflict, so check them with that site;
- our phones are staffed in office hours: Monday to Friday 9am to 6pm and Saturday 9am to 2pm, except Bath (weekdays 8.30am to 5pm, Saturday 9am to 3pm) and Dorking (weekdays 8.30am to 5.30pm, closed at weekends);
- if your unit's alarm goes off when you're not on site, our move-in FAQ says "our security team will be on hand to investigate".
What it means for you
Plan as if nobody will be there to help you unload, take in a delivery or let someone in for you. Bring your own help, or ask us to recommend a removals or man-and-van firm. If you'd like someone there on moving day, ring your site first, or call 0800 2545585.
An unstaffed site describes who is present. An automated storage facility describes how the site runs. One site can be both.
Related terms: Automated storage facility · Smart entry · Site security · Storage facility
Related questions: Can a removals firm or courier drop off at my unit without me being there? · Is there anyone on site to help me unload or load my stuff?