Storing reselling stock at home is one of the best ways to keep your business costs down and increase your profit margins. There’s no need to rush into renting expensive storage space when your home might already have the ideal solutions. Whether you're just starting your online shop or growing your resale side hustle, these simple ideas will help you store your stock neatly, securely, and without cluttering your living space.

Make Use of an Extra Room

If you’re lucky enough to have a spare room, this is an ideal space to convert into a dedicated inventory area. Rather than keeping it unused for the occasional guest, it can become your mini warehouse.

An extra room gives you full-time access to your inventory and can help you avoid unnecessary trips to external storage units. If you're concerned about giving up personal space, consider dividing the room — use shelving units to separate business stock from household storage, like bulky kitchen gadgets or seasonal items.

Closet Space Works Too

Don’t underestimate how useful your closet can be. Top shelves are perfect for small, lightweight items like accessories, jewellery, or folded clothing. Decluttering your wardrobe may free up even more space. You could also install extra storage boxes or hanging organisers to make the most of every inch.

Under-Bed Storage

If you have a raised bed frame, the space underneath can be ideal for storing reselling inventory. Use flat plastic storage boxes with lids to keep dust at bay, or choose wheeled containers that slide out easily. This is a smart option for small businesses dealing with compact stock, like books, beauty items or craft supplies.

Convert Your Basement

A dry, clean basement is a valuable asset. You can use it to store your stock or even create a small workspace for packing and organising orders. Just make sure the space is free from leaks and damp, as moisture can ruin your products. Installing shelves and a dehumidifier will help protect your items.

Turn Your Shed into a Stock Room

A shed can also be converted into a stockroom with a few simple upgrades. Add shelves to avoid cluttering the floor and ensure your products are protected from temperature changes. Because sheds aren’t usually insulated, it’s worth using moisture absorbers or a dehumidifier in humid weather.

Organise Your Inventory Efficiently

It’s not just about where you store your stock — how you organise it matters too. Label everything clearly and use bins, boxes, or drawers with a consistent numbering or coding system. Keep a spreadsheet or inventory tracker so you always know where each item is located.

This saves time when packing orders and reduces the risk of items getting lost, forgotten, or oversold.

Storage Solutions for Different Product Types

Different products require different storage conditions:

• Clothing – Store in sealed tubs or garment bags with moth repellents.

• Books and Paper Goods – Use dry, dark spaces and add silica gel packets.

• Electronics – Keep in original boxes if possible and away from humidity or extreme temperatures.

• Jewellery and Small Items – Organise in compartment boxes or drawer dividers, and label by category or product number.

Matching your storage method to the product helps maintain quality and reduce returns.

Make Use of Vertical Space

When space is tight, go up. Tall shelving units, over-door organisers, and wall-mounted racks are great for stacking boxes and containers. It keeps things off the floor, reduces clutter, and gives you more room to move around.

When It’s Time to Consider External Storage

Home storage is perfect when you're starting out, but there may come a point where your business outgrows your space. If your inventory takes over your living area or becomes difficult to manage, consider renting a small storage unit or using a fulfilment service.

Signs it might be time to expand:

• You can’t move around your storage space comfortably

• Orders are delayed because of stock issues

• You’re turning down opportunities due to lack of space

Only scale up when the business can afford it and the benefits outweigh the extra cost.

 

Want to know what it's really like running an online shop from home? 

Check out my article which revelas all: Things I learnt running my online shop business (the things no one tells you)