A Guide to Moving House Storage
Using self-storage for your house move is an ideal way to tackle it in stages.
It gives you time to decide what you’re taking to your new home without the pressure of packing everything up.
In this article, we look at the benefits of using a storage and moving company.
Why use a Storage and Moving Company?
Companies that offer moving services and storage solutions make the moving process streamlined. They'll do all the hard work so you can rest assured knowing your personal belongings are protected.
Compare My Move's removal and storage companies have Public Liability insurance to give you peace of mind that your items are safe. We also work with many removal companies that are members of the British Association of Removers.
Compare storage and moving quotes to save money on your house removals and storage costs.
Benefits of Using Moving House Storage
Below we list the many situations using moving house storage can help.
1. Pack in Stages
Using self-storage for the items you use the least means your packing time is cut in half.
Storing your furniture while you renovate your new home will help to minimise damage. If you’re downsizing, storing items you don’t have space for in your new home will save on removal costs.
2. In-between Homes
Around 26% of storage users say they are moving home and in between properties.
Using self-storage during the in-between period means you don’t have to transport everything to temporary accommodation. With the flexibility of storage facilities, you can have your items moved into your new home once everything is finalised.
3. Flexibility
With both long and short-term storage options available, you can store single items or your whole house. You’ll have easy access to your items and won’t be tied into a lease.
Once you’ve moved in, you can collect your items and unpack them into your new home at your leisure.
4. Declutter
If your new home is smaller than your current one, you’ll have to be cautious about what you can take. Using storage to declutter can help you save on moving costs. Many people also declutter for viewings to help the buyer imagine their belongings in your property.
5. Security During a Move
When it comes to moving day, it can be easy to misplace important valuables. If your items are in storage prior to the move, you’ll know exactly where your items are at all times. Storage facilities come with security features such as 24/7 CCTV and intruder alarms.
6. Temporary Moves
If you’re moving for work, you might not want to sell your current home or leave your items there unattended. Using temporary storage means you can return your items home once your new contract is up.
7. International Moves
International moves accounted for 9.8% of storage use in 2022 according to the SSA’s UK Industry Report.
Placing some items into storage means you’ll save on shipping costs. This is especially important if you’re splitting your time between the UK and your international home.
8. Variety of Unit Options
Some unit types will be more beneficial depending on the type of items:
Indoor units - The main benefit of indoor storage is that the units are safe, secure and out of the way from damaging weather.
Climate-controlled units - Wooden furniture poses a risk if it’s not in a temperature-controlled storage unit as this could cause moisture issues.
Outdoor units - Outdoor units such as storage lock ups are better suited for large items such as cars, bikes or boats. You’ll be able to drive right up to your unit and park up.
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How Much Storage Do I Need For a House Move?
The size of storage unit you’ll need will depend on the volume and type of items that need storing.
Below we list the ideal storage unit size for a variety of property types including apartments and houses.
1-bedroom flat - 50 sq.ft:
- A few small cardboard boxes
- Twin/queen-size mattress
- Small dressing table/bedside table
- Desk and chair
- 1 bicycle
- Electronics
2-bedroom flat - 75 sq.ft:
- Medium cardboard boxes
- Dining table and chairs
- 2-3 seater sofa
- 2 double beds
- Wardrobe
- Chest of drawers
- Kitchen white goods
2-bed house - 100 sq.ft:
- Lots of cardboard boxes of storage containers
- 2 queen-size beds
- Coffee tables and side tables
- Lamps
- Rugs
- Large appliances
- Garden equipment
- Dressing table
3-bed house - 125-150 sq.ft:
- All of the above
- Contents of a 3-bed house
To learn more, read storage unit size.
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How Much Does Moving House Storage Cost?
Self-storage unit costs £27.19 on average according to the SSA’s 2023 Report.
Your total storage costs will depend on the size of the unit, location and how long you need it for.
Many storage companies offer an introductory offer which is typically 50% off your first 8 weeks of storage. It’s important to ask your storage provider if they have any current deals.
Packing Your Items for Storage
Most removal companies offer a packing service to help safely transport your items to the unit. If you’re transporting the items yourself, follow our packing tips to ensure your items are protected:
- Declutter personal belongings
- Create an inventory
- Choose the right size storage unit
- Use bubble wrap and protective packaging
- Categorise your storage
- Label your storage
- Place most commonly used items at the front
- Leave a space down the middle for easy access
To learn more, read our guide on packing for self storage.
Compare Self Storage Unit Costs
Save money on your storage costs
Compare Moving House Storage
We work with companies that offer both storage and removal services. Compare up to 6 quotes from removal companies and storage providers to save on your moving house storage.
