Do You Need Storage When Moving House?

Not every move goes straight from one front door to the next. Completion dates slip, new homes are smaller, and sometimes you are renovating before you move in. In those cases, storage can take the pressure off. This guide explains when you are likely to need it and how to use it well.

When storage makes sense

• A gap between completion dates. You have left your old home, but the new one is not ready.
• Chain delays. A buyer or seller higher up the chain moves their date and yours is pushed back.
• Downsizing. The new home cannot hold everything, and you are not ready to part with it.
• Renovating. Furniture needs to be out of the way while work goes on.
• Moving for work or abroad. You may not know yet what you will take with you.
• Student moves. Possessions need a home over the summer.
• Selling the property. Clearing out some furniture can help the home look more spacious for viewings.

Short-term or long-term

How long you need storage changes the choice.

• A few days to a few weeks. Some removal companies can hold your belongings in their vehicle or at their depot between collection and delivery. Ask whether this is possible.
• A few weeks to months. A storage unit or a company that stores your items for you is usually the best fit.
• Long-term. Think about access, security, monthly charges and how often you will need to get at your things.

Types of storage

• Self-storage units. You rent a unit, pack and load it yourself, and have access when you need it.
• Container storage. A container is delivered, you fill it, and it is collected and kept for you.
• Removal company storage. The company collects your belongings and keeps them in a warehouse until you need them delivered.

Each has different costs and conveniences, so compare what is included, such as collection, delivery and packing.

What to ask before you book

1. How is the facility secured?
2. What insurance applies to items in storage, and do I need my own?
3. What is the minimum term, and how much notice do I need to give?
4. What are the access times, and can I get at items during the stay?
5. Is collection and delivery included or extra?
6. Are there any charges for packing materials?
7. Is the storage suitable for furniture, electronics and anything sensitive to damp?

How to prepare your belongings

• Clean and dry everything. Damp furniture can grow mould in storage.
• Dismantle large furniture where you can, and keep screws and fittings in labelled bags taped to the item.
• Use strong boxes, and label every box with the room and contents.
• Wrap furniture in covers or blankets, and avoid plastic directly against wood.
• Empty and defrost fridges and freezers, and leave the doors slightly open.
• Make a list of what is stored, with photographs of valuable items.
• Leave a path through the unit so that you can reach what you may need.

Check your insurance

Do not assume that your contents insurance covers items in storage. Ask your insurer, and ask the storage provider what cover they offer and what it excludes. If you are using a removal company's storage, ask how their goods in transit cover applies while your belongings are being kept.

Planning the move around storage

If you know that you will need storage, say so when you ask for removal quotes, because some companies can handle both the move and the storage, which keeps it simpler. Our moving house checklist covers where storage fits in the weeks before your move, and our guide to storage solutions in Leeds and across the UK has more on the options.

Getting quotes

You can get free quotes for removals with storage through Ecoplus and compare them from verified companies. Read more about our storage solutions, and see how to compare removal quotes to make sure each quote covers the same things.

Frequently asked questions

How long can I keep items in storage?

It depends on the provider and the terms. Some storage is arranged for a few days or weeks, and some on a rolling basis. Ask about the minimum term and the notice you need to give.

Can I get to my belongings while they are in storage?

That depends on the type of storage. Self-storage units usually give you access during set hours, while items stored by a removal company in a warehouse may need notice before they can be retrieved.

Is storage safe for furniture?

It can be if the facility is clean, dry and secure and you prepare the items properly. Ask about security, damp and temperature, and cover furniture so that it is protected.

Do I need to insure items in storage?

Do not assume you are covered. Ask your home insurer, and ask the storage provider what cover it offers and what it excludes.