How I Built a UK Self Storage Directory in Just 2 Hours Using AI Tools
Here is the step by step on how I did it
Creating a nationwide UK self storage directory used to be a time-consuming, manual task. But with the rise of AI-powered tools, it's now faster, smarter, and more effective than ever. In this post, I’ll walk you through how I built Storage Finder UK a comprehensive directory of self storage facilities across the UK in just two hours using cutting-edge AI tools.
Step 1: AI-Powered Web Scraping for Self Storage Data
Every successful directory starts with accurate, comprehensive data. To gather the most up-to-date information on self storage units across the UK, I used Cursor AI to build a custom scraper that extracts business details directly from Google Maps.
This scraper automatically collected:
- Storage facility names and locations
- Full addresses and postcodes
- Phone numbers and websites
- Business hours
- Customer ratings and reviews
- Available services and amenities
This AI web scraping approach eliminated hours of manual research while ensuring wide coverage of the UK self storage market.
Step 2: Structuring for SEO and User Experience
With the data ready, I focused on structuring the directory for both search engine optimization (SEO) and user-friendliness. Using Grok AI, I developed a prompt to help structure pages in a clean and logical hierarchy, supported by HTML and Python.
The site is organized by location, using SEO-friendly URL structures like:
- /self-storage-london (regional page)
- /self-storage-london/westminster (city-specific subpage)
This not only improves navigation but also boosts visibility in organic search by targeting location-based queries like “self storage in London” or “storage units in Westminster.”
Step 3: Adding Value with a Storage Unit Calculator
To go beyond just listings, I integrated a storage unit size calculator—a tool suggested by Grok AI. This interactive feature allows users to:
- Select common items they plan to store (e.g., furniture, boxes, seasonal goods)
- Receive real-time recommendations on the right storage unit size for their needs
This not only improves engagement but also positions the site as a helpful resource for choosing storage space—reducing guesswork for users and boosting time on site.
Step 4: Fast and Free Deployment with GitHub + Vercel
With the core site complete, I deployed it using a simple but powerful tech stack:
- Codebase hosted on GitHub for version control
- Vercel connected for automatic deployments
Benefits of this setup include:
- Free hosting (ideal for startup-scale projects)
- Instant deployment from GitHub pushes
- SSL certification and CDN included
- High performance with zero maintenance
This let me go live quickly with minimal overhead—perfect for side projects or MVPs.
Step 5: Future Plans — Blogs, Comparisons, and Market Insights
I’m currently working on expanding Storage Finder UK into a go-to self storage resource. Future updates will include:
- A blog covering self storage tips, pricing comparisons, and market trends
- Reviews and guides to help users choose the right storage facility
- News on new facility openings and innovations in the storage sector
This content will not only boost SEO but also increase return visits by delivering ongoing value to users.
Key Takeaways
This project highlighted just how powerful modern tools can be when used strategically:
- AI accelerates web development – What used to take weeks now takes hours
- SEO-focused architecture pays off – Smart URLs and structure improve visibility
- Useful tools add real value – Features like calculators improve UX and engagement
- Modern hosting platforms simplify everything – GitHub + Vercel is a game-changer
Most importantly, AI tools like Cursor and Grok don’t replace creativity—they enhance it. They free up your time from repetitive tasks so you can focus on strategy, design, and creating something truly useful.
About the Creator
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