Removals and storage: compare quotes
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Compare removals and storage together
If your move dates do not line up, or you are renovating, downsizing or heading away for the summer, you may need storage as well as a removal. Mention it in your request and companies can quote for both.
Your storage options
- Self-storage: you rent a unit and have access. Usually cheaper, and you handle loading.
- Removal company storage: the company collects, stores and delivers. Costs more, but takes the work out.
- Container storage: a container is dropped at your door, filled and collected.
What to ask any storage provider
- Is my stuff insured, and who pays?
- What are the access hours and fees?
- What is the minimum period and notice?
- Is the unit clean, dry and secure?
Read more: removals and storage, storage unit sizes, moving out during a renovation.
When removals and storage go together
You need storage with a removal when your dates do not match, when the new home is smaller, when you are renovating, or when you are going abroad or travelling for a while. In each case, the same crew can collect your belongings, take them to a store, and bring them back or deliver them to the new address later. Asking for one quote for the removal and the storage is often simpler and cheaper than arranging them separately.
Types of storage
- Self-storage units. You rent a unit, usually by size and by the week or month, and access it when you need to. You or your mover loads it. You control access and keep the key. Check the insurance, as the operator's cover often does not include your goods.
- Containerised storage. A container is delivered to your home, you load it or the company loads it, and it is taken to a secure warehouse. It suits longer stays and reduces handling.
- Removal company storage. The removal company stores your belongings, often in sealed containers or crates, in its own warehouse. It suits an overlap of a few weeks or months and is quick to arrange.
- Short-term storage. A night or a few days between completion dates. Some removal companies offer this by keeping your goods on the vehicle or in a depot, but ask how it is secured and insured.
How much space do you need?
As a rough guide, a small unit suits the contents of a room or a studio, a medium unit suits a one or two-bedroom flat and a large unit suits a three-bedroom home. It is better to choose a unit with a little spare space, as it is easier to load and to get things back out. See our self-storage size guide.
What storage costs
The price of storage depends on the size, the location, the length of the contract and the services included. Prices differ by area, and central London is much higher than elsewhere. When you compare, ask about the minimum term, the notice period, the charge for collection and delivery, the price for insurance, any deposit, VAT and what happens if you stay longer than planned. Check how and when prices can change. Our guide on removals and storage covers the costs in detail.
Insurance in storage
Do not assume your belongings are covered. Many storage operators say the contents are the customer's responsibility, and many home insurance policies limit cover for things kept off the premises. Ask the provider what its insurance covers, ask your own insurer whether your policy applies and consider specific cover. Take photos and keep a list of the items.
Prepare your belongings for storage
- Clean and dry everything. Damp causes mould and damage.
- Defrost and air the fridge-freezer and leave the door slightly open, if the store allows it.
- Use strong boxes, label them and list what is in each.
- Dismantle furniture where possible and protect surfaces with covers or blankets.
- Stack heavy items at the bottom, and leave a path to get to the back.
- Keep a list of what you store, and the things you may need before you collect.
- Do not store hazardous items, food, plants or anything illegal, and check the operator's rules.
Storage in common situations
People often use storage when they are moving out during renovation, downsizing, selling a home before buying or storing things over the summer as a student. Each situation has its own timing and risk, so tell the companies what you are doing and how long you expect to need storage.
Common questions
Can I get storage and removals in one quote?
Yes. Tell us in the quote tool that you need storage and companies can quote for both.
How long can I store my things?
It depends on the provider. Some have a minimum period of a few weeks. Check the terms and notice period before you sign.
Is stored furniture insured?
Not always. Check what the storage provider covers, and whether your own contents insurance applies.
How long can I store my belongings?
It depends on the provider. Some have a minimum period of a few weeks, others a month or more, and many allow indefinite storage with notice. Check the terms and notice period before you sign.
Is stored furniture insured?
Not always. Ask what the storage provider covers, and check whether your own contents insurance applies. You may need extra cover.
Can the removal company store my things?
Many companies offer storage in their own warehouse, in containers or in crates. Ask about security, insurance and how access works.
What should I not put in storage?
Hazardous items, food, plants, animals and anything illegal or prohibited by the operator. Check the rules before you pack.
Is it cheaper to arrange removal and storage together?
Often it is simpler and sometimes cheaper, because the company can plan the collection, the storage and the delivery together. Ask for each cost separately so you can compare.
