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Removals and Storage

Nicola Ryan

Written by Reviewed by Dave Sayce

2nd Aug 2022 (Last updated on 14th Mar 2024) 7 minute read

Companies that deal with removals and storage are convenient for a variety of reasons. Utilising a storage facility during your move can help if you are wanting to spend time unpacking your belongings in your new home. Some people wish to redecorate as soon as they move in, so having your goods in storage means that you will have the space and time to do so.

In this guide, we'll be taking you through everything you need to know about removal and storage companies. This will give you the confidence to choose the right company for you.

  1. How Much Does a Removals and Storage Company Cost?
  2. Why Would You Require a Removals and Storage Company?
  3. Different Kinds of Storage
  4. Tips for Using a Removal and Storage Company
  5. Finding a Removal and Storage Service

How Much Does a Removals and Storage Company Cost?

The average removal company costs are £1,380.50. This is based on moving a 3-bed house with full removal services and short-term storage. Full removal service includes the loading and unloading of items, packing services and materials, and dismantling and reassembling of goods.

Short-term storage is defined as storage used between 1-3 months. Long-term storage is defined as storage units used longer than 3 months.

For those looking to store their goods for longer than 3 months, the average removal and storage cost rises to £1,779.50. The average storage cost for a 100 sq. ft unit is approximately £598.50 for 3 months.

Here is a breakdown of the average removal and storage costs:

ServiceCost (£)
Loading and unloading (50 miles distance)£806
Packing services and materials£250
Dismantling and reassembling furniture£125
Short-term storage (1 month)£199.50
Long-term storage (3 months)£598.50

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Why Would You Require a Removals and Storage Company?

There are many reasons why people need a removal and storage company. It can prolong the moving process as you will be moving goods between the new property and storage facility. However, it is extremely convenient and necessary for various situations. Here are some of the most common reasons why people choose a removals and storage company:

Cost

Depending on the company, you may be able to save money when using the removal and storage services. This is because some companies may offer some form of discount for those who wish to use a removal company's storage facility. While this isn't always the case, some companies may offer a discount for those who prepay in advance or agree to lower the storage facility rate when booking the removal services.

Declutter

You may want to take your time to settle into your new home and unpack over a certain period of time. Using a storage facility can help you to declutter your belongings. This is because you can take essential goods to the new property and place the other goods in storage.

If you want to use a storage facility to declutter, it’s best to decide how long you want to rent the storage space beforehand. You may receive a discount if you prepay in advance.

New job

Some people require storage with their removal service because they have received a new job elsewhere. If you have accepted a new job and have to move, a storage facility can be handy.

Some removal companies have storage facilities nationwide. Others may have container storage units that can be taken to your new property. This means that you’ll be able to find a removal and storage company that suits your new job.

Renovating

If you plan on renovating your new property, you may want to consider utilising a storage facility. This prevents your goods from getting damaged and allows you to have the space and time to renovate your home.

Bear in mind that this can prolong your moving-in period. However, if you have a plan in place for your renovation, you can prepay for a storage unit for the amount of time that the renovation takes place. Equally, you can also opt for a rolling contract where you pay monthly with no set exit date if you don’t know how long the renovation will take. Make sure to establish this with your storage company beforehand.

Sell property

Storage can be useful if you are planning to sell your property and need somewhere to store your belongings while you are in between properties. This can be especially helpful if you are planning to downsize.

If you need to sell your property quickly, organising storage as soon as possible will ensure that your belongings are secure.

Travel abroad

If you are travelling abroad, you may benefit from putting your goods in storage. Moving your goods abroad takes a lot of time and preparation. Therefore, you can choose to put your belongings in storage either in the UK or in your new destination.

If you are moving abroad temporarily, storage ensures your goods are secure without paying for them to be shipped overseas. If you are moving abroad permanently, organising storage in your new destination means that you can take your time with your move.

Moving businesses

If you're moving offices, using an office relocation service that can provide both removals and storage will be beneficial. You may not be bringing all your belongings to the new office so you can store these items while you decide what you're doing with them.

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Different Kinds of Storage

There are different kinds of storage that you should be aware of. Depending on how much you wish to put in storage and your location, the price of storage can differ drastically. Your removal and storage company will be able to transport your goods directly to the facility.

Here are the two main types of storage:

Self-Storage

Self-storage is one of the most popular types of storage. Self-storage facilities are large warehouses that contain units and containers of various sizes. The company that owns the self-storage facility will dictate the opening hours with most allowing 24/7 access. The price of your unit will depend on the size of the unit itself. The larger your unit or container, the higher the price will be.

Container Storage

Container Storage units are the other popular option for people looking to put their goods in storage. The container tends to be kept outdoors rather than in an indoor warehouse. This makes it an ideal option for those who may not live near a storage facility. Like self-storage, if your container is at a designated site, you will have to check the opening times that the owners have laid out.

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Tips for Using a Removal and Storage Company

Being organised will ensure that you are prepared and moving day will go smoothly. Here are some tips that you should follow to give yourself the best experience:

Finalise the logistics

The best place to start is finalising the logistics with your moving company. Having a clear timeframe for the removals and storage means that you know where your goods will be at all times. It also allows you to keep track of the day, so you can focus on other aspects of the move.

Pack in advance

Making sure you know which belongings will be sent to the new property and which ones are going to the storage unit in advance is extremely important. Not only will it help you in your organisation, but you’ll also have a better idea of what size storage unit you need.

Packaging goods correctly

If you have valuable or fragile goods, you need to make sure that they are packaged properly. Most removal companies offer packing services. They will package your goods using professional supplies. If you would rather pack your goods yourself, you can request supplies from your removal company.

Insurance

Choosing a removal and storage company that offers various insurance packages means that you can be assured that you are covered. At Compare My Move, all partners must offer Goods in Transit and Public Liability insurance. This means that your belongings are protected in instances of theft or damage.

Packing your goods properly before they are put in storage is crucial. When your goods are put in the storage unit, they may be susceptible to environmental damage depending on the conditions in the facility. Therefore, making sure your belongings are packaged properly and efficiently will prevent damage. It will also ensure privacy and security as your belongings will not be easily accessible for theft.

Type of storage

As mentioned above, knowing what type of storage you want is essential beforehand. The type of storage can impact the goods that are stored. Therefore, it’s important that you research each type of storage thoroughly. This allows you to make a well-informed decision.

Storage is the most sought-after service by most movers. Some are students going on long holidays and cannot afford to move with everything. Others are employees involved in long international travels and have to vacate for a while. In other cases it involves a family selling their house to buy a new one and having to find storage space in the meantime.

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Finding a Removal and Storage Service

You can receive up to 6 quotes from our partners who specialise in professional removals. Our comparison service means that you can save up to 70% on your removal and storage costs.

Nicola Ryan

Written by Nicola Ryan

Nicola focusses on all things moving house at Compare My Move where she writes articles for the advice centre, guiding users through everything they need to know about moving house.

Dave Sayce

Reviewed by Dave Sayce

Owner & Managing Director, Compare My Move

Dave Sayce is the owner and managing director of Compare My Move and has over 10 years of experience in the house removals industry.

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