Storage Solutions
Short-term vs long-term, container storage vs self-storage units
Storage between moves can be a sealed container held by a removal firm or a self-storage unit you visit yourself. The right choice depends on how often you need access, how long the gap is and the total cost from collection to redelivery, not the weekly rate alone.
Pros
- A combined move-and-store service from a removal firm can avoid paying for a separate collection and a separate storage contract
- Sealed containers held at a depot limit how often goods are handled during a long gap
Cons
- Container storage usually means booking ahead for access, which does not suit frequent visits
- Long-term storage costs add up, so compare them with moving belongings directly if the gap is short
About Storage Solutions
Storage is usually split between short-term (bridging a gap between moving out and in, often a few weeks) and long-term (months or longer, for example when downsizing or storing while abroad). It is also split between container storage (belongings are loaded into a sealed container at your home or a depot, with access by appointment) and self-storage units (you visit a facility and access your own unit directly, which suits frequent access). Many removal firms offer container storage as part of a combined move-and-store service. Which works out cheaper depends on the quotes, so compare the full cost of each.
Total-cost checklist
Ask every provider to quote each line in writing so you can compare like with like.
| Cost line | What to ask |
|---|---|
| Collection | Is collection from your home included, and with how many crew? |
| Handling | Who wraps, loads and unloads, and is handling charged in and out? |
| Storage period | Weekly or monthly basis, and how part periods are charged |
| Access | Can you visit, what notice is needed, and is there a fee? |
| Cover | What the provider’s liability covers, the basis of value and exclusions |
| Minimum term | The minimum period and the notice needed to end it |
| Redelivery | Price, crew, access at the new home and date flexibility |
More detail is in the guide to storage between house moves. For a long-distance second leg, read the shared load trade-offs, and use the guide to comparing removal quotes to spot missing lines.
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Frequently asked questions
Is my stuff insured while it’s in storage?
Not necessarily. Ask the storage provider exactly what its liability covers, the basis of value and the exclusions, and ask your home insurer whether your policy extends to goods in storage. Add separate cover if neither is enough.
Are you a removals company yourselves?
No. Compare House Movers is an independent comparison and information service. If a firm says it belongs to the British Association of Removers (BAR), check that with BAR directly. BAR says its members must follow its Code of Practice and are audited each year. Ask any firm what protection applies to a deposit before you pay it.
Is all the pricing on this site guaranteed?
No. Any costs mentioned are general guidance, not fixed quotes. Get itemised quotes from more than one removal firm before committing, and check exactly what is included.
What happens after I request a quote?
We look for a removal firm that covers your area to arrange a survey (in person or by video). There is no obligation to go ahead with any quote.
Request a removals quote
Free and no obligation. Tell us about your move and we will look for a removal firm that covers your area.