Buckets without Autoclass enabled can accumulate infrequently accessed data in more expensive storage classes, inflating monthly costs. Enabling Autoclass allows GCS to automatically move objects to lower-cost tiers based on observed access behavior, optimizing storage costs without manual lifecycle policy management. Activating Autoclass reduces operational overhead while maintaining seamless access to objects across storage classes.

GCS buckets often persist after applications are retired or data is no longer in active use. Without access activity, these buckets generate storage charges without providing ongoing value. Leaving stale data in Standard storage—designed for frequent access—results in unnecessary cost. If the data must be retained for compliance or future reference, colder tiers offer substantial savings. If it is no longer needed, the data should be deleted.