Storage becomes useful whenever your moving dates don’t line up neatly, when your new property is smaller than your old one, or when you’re decluttering before a sale. Here’s how to work out whether you need it, and what your options are if you do.
Situations Where Storage Helps
- A gap between completion dates, where you need to move out before you can move into the new property
- Downsizing to a smaller home and needing time to decide what to keep, sell, or pass on
- Renovation or building work at the new property that means it isn’t ready for all your belongings straight away
- Staging a property for sale, where removing excess furniture makes rooms look larger
- Business storage for stock, equipment, or documents during an office move or seasonal fluctuation
Types of Storage Available
- Self-storage units: you keep the key and can access your belongings when needed, usually paid monthly
- Container storage: your items are packed into a container at your property, then transported to a secure storage facility
- Crate storage: smaller, stackable crates are used instead of a full container, often suited to smaller volumes
- Business storage: dedicated space for stock, files, or equipment, often with more flexible access arrangements than personal storage
How to Choose the Right Storage Option
Container or crate storage generally works well when your removal company can pack and collect everything in one visit, since your items go straight from your property into secure storage without a separate trip to a self-storage unit. Self-storage suits situations where you’ll need regular access to your belongings during the storage period. For business storage, think about how often you’ll need to retrieve stock or documents, since this affects which option is most practical.
Questions to Ask About Storage
- Is the facility secure, and what insurance is included or available for stored items?
- How is pricing calculated: by volume, by unit size, or by container?
- What access do you have to your belongings while they’re in storage?
- Is there a minimum storage period, and what’s the process for moving items out when you’re ready?
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can my belongings remain in storage while I’m moving?
This depends on the provider and storage type, but most personal and business storage arrangements are flexible on duration, whether you need a few weeks to bridge a completion date gap or longer-term storage during a renovation.
Is container storage cheaper than self-storage?
It varies by provider and volume. Container and crate storage can be more cost-effective when paired directly with a removal service, since it avoids a separate trip to a self-storage facility, but the best option depends on how much you’re storing and for how long.
Can businesses use the same storage options as house movers?
Yes. Business storage for stock, equipment, or documents typically uses the same container, crate, or unit-based options as personal storage, though access arrangements may be tailored to business needs.
Do I need storage insurance separately from my house contents insurance?
Usually yes, or you’ll need to confirm your existing contents policy extends to items in storage. Ask your storage provider what insurance is included and whether additional cover is available.
Storage Options From a Local Removals Team
Shaheen Express Removals provides removals and storage across St Albans, Luton, Hertfordshire and Essex, including personal and business storage options such as containers, crates, and self-storage units.