When Do You Need Storage During a Move?
Storage during a house move is more common than people think. Chain delays, renovation work, or downsizing can all create a gap between moving out and moving in.
Common Reasons for Temporary Storage
- Chain break — your sale completes before your purchase
- Renovation — your new home needs work before you can move in
- Downsizing — you need time to sort and sell items that won't fit
- Temporary accommodation — staying with family or renting short-term between moves
- Gap between tenancies — your old lease ends before the new one starts
- Overseas relocation — items shipped by sea while you fly ahead
Types of Storage for Movers
Self-storage units
You rent a room in a warehouse and manage access yourself. Available in sizes from locker (16 sq ft) to large room (200+ sq ft).
| Unit Size | Suits | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 25 sq ft (locker) | Boxes, small items | £30 – £60 |
| 50 sq ft | 1-bed flat contents | £60 – £120 |
| 75 sq ft | 2-bed house contents | £90 – £170 |
| 100 sq ft | 3-bed house contents | £120 – £220 |
| 150 sq ft | 4+ bed house contents | £170 – £300 |
Prices vary significantly by location — London and the South East are typically 30-50% more expensive than the Midlands or North.
Container storage (removal company)
Your removal company loads your belongings into a wooden container or crate at their warehouse. You don't have direct access, but it's often cheaper and more convenient because:
- They load and unload for you
- It's combined with your move (one less thing to arrange)
- Good security at commercial depots
- Typical cost: £15–£30 per week per container
Portable storage (PODS)
A container is delivered to your driveway. You load it yourself, then it's collected and stored. Costs typically £100–£200/month including delivery and collection.
Removals and Storage Packages
Many removal companies offer combined move + storage deals. This is often the most convenient option because:
- Your belongings are loaded once and moved to storage
- When you're ready, they deliver to your new home
- You deal with one company for everything
- Combined pricing is usually cheaper than booking separately
Typical combined costs:
| Scenario | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| 2-bed local move + 4 weeks storage | £600 – £1,000 |
| 3-bed local move + 4 weeks storage | £900 – £1,500 |
| 3-bed long-distance + 4 weeks storage | £1,200 – £2,200 |
How to Reduce Storage Costs
- Declutter before storing — every box costs you weekly rent. Be ruthless.
- Choose the right size — don't pay for space you don't use. Most self-storage facilities let you change unit size.
- Compare locations — a unit 15 minutes further from the centre could be 30% cheaper.
- Ask about introductory offers — many self-storage companies offer 50% off the first 4-8 weeks.
- Consider container storage — if you don't need regular access, it's usually cheaper than self-storage.
- Pack efficiently — stack boxes high, dismantle furniture, and fill every gap.
Insurance for Stored Goods
Check your home contents insurance — it may cover goods in storage, but often only for a limited period (30-60 days). If not:
- Self-storage companies offer basic cover, typically £2,000–£5,000 per unit
- Removal companies usually include storage insurance in their packages
- Specialist storage insurance is available for high-value items
Always check the excess amount and exclusion list before assuming you're covered.
How Long Can You Store?
There's no strict limit, but:
- Short-term (1-4 weeks) — typical for chain breaks and gap between properties
- Medium-term (1-6 months) — renovation projects, overseas transitions
- Long-term (6+ months) — consider whether it's cheaper to sell and replace
If you're storing for more than 3 months, calculate whether the total storage cost exceeds the replacement value of the items.
Use our calculator to estimate your base moving costs, then factor in storage for your total budget.