Counterfeit goods
Self-Storage Project
Trading standards are participating in a Scottish wide project to audit self-storage businesses and raise awareness of the Tick Box Code of Practice.
The Self-Storage Association (SSA) has estimated that there are around 2,050 self-storage units across the UK. Evidence has indicated that self-storage units can be a key facilitator in storing illegal goods, including counterfeit and unsafe products.
The purpose of this project is for local trading standards authorities in Scotland to identify self-storage facilities in their areas, visit and inspect them and engage with the business owners and staff in relation to illicit trading matters, with a focus on intellectual property in particular.
The project will also encourage businesses to sign up to the Tick Box Scheme.
The Tick Box Scheme
The Tick Box: Keep it Real Keep it Legal scheme helps self-storage businesses to deter criminals from using their facilities.
At the heart of the scheme is the code of practice which sets out simple procedures aimed at preventing the storage of counterfeit and other illegal goods and enables self-storage facility owners to be sure of who is storing what at their premises. It also clarifies the information and support they can receive from trading standards.
The scheme can be implemented easily with no red tape, barriers, costs or membership fee.
During 2023 two Highland businesses passed their audit and joined the scheme: Jans Vans Ltd and Ferguson Transport (SpeanBridge) Ltd