Counterfeit goods

Self-Storage Project: tackling illegal goods in storage facilities

Trading Standards is taking part in a Scotland-wide project to audit self-storage businesses and raise awareness of the Tick Box: Keep it Real, Keep it Legal scheme. The aim is to prevent the storage of counterfeit and illegal goods.

There are around 2,050 self-storage units across the UK. Some have been used to store:

  • Counterfeit goods
  • Unsafe products
  • Other illicit items

These activities can pose serious risks to public safety and support organised crime.

What the project involves

Trading Standards teams across Scotland are:

  • Identifying and visiting self-storage facilities
  • Engaging with business owners and staff
  • Raising awareness of illicit trading, especially around intellectual property
  • Encouraging businesses to join the Tick Box Scheme

About the Tick Box Scheme

The Tick Box: Keep it Real, Keep it Legal scheme helps self-storage businesses:

  • Prevent criminals from using their facilities
  • Follow a simple code of practice
  • Know who is storing what on their premises
  • Access support and guidance from Trading Standards

Advantages of the scheme:

  • No red tape
  • No membership fees
  • Easy to implement

Local success

In 2023, two Highland businesses passed their audit and joined the scheme:

  • Jans Vans Ltd
  • Ferguson Transport (Spean Bridge) Ltd

Find out more

For more information and to get involved, visit the Tick Box Scheme website

Page last modified: 3 September 2025