Removals and Storage

Removal and storage companies offer a great deal of convenience, making your move smoother and more organized. Using a storage facility during your move is especially helpful if you want to take your time unpacking your belongings in your new home. Some people prefer to redecorate before bringing in their furniture and personal items, and having them stored temporarily allows for the extra space and time needed to do so.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about removal and storage companies. This will help you confidently choose the right provider to meet your needs, ensuring your move is as efficient and stress-free as possible.

How Much Does a Removals and Storage Company Cost?

The average cost for a removal company is around £1,380.50. This price typically covers the moving of a 3-bedroom house with full removal services and short-term storage. Full removal services generally include loading and unloading of items, packing materials and services, as well as dismantling and reassembling of furniture.

Short-term storage typically refers to storage between 1 to 3 months, while long-term storage involves units used for longer than 3 months.

For those who need to store their belongings for more than 3 months, the average cost for removal and storage increases to approximately £1,779.50. The cost for renting a 100 sq. ft. storage unit for 3 months averages £598.50.

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

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Why Would You Require a Removals and Storage Company?

There are many reasons why people opt for a removal and storage company. While it may extend the moving process, as it involves transporting goods between the new property and the storage facility, it offers a high level of convenience and is essential in many situations.

For example, if you're renovating your new home or need to wait for the completion of certain tasks before moving in, storage can provide the space you need. It can also be helpful when you're downsizing and need to keep some belongings in storage until you're ready to deal with them. In these scenarios, removal and storage services can help make the transition smoother and less stressful.

Here are some of the most common reasons why people choose a removals and storage company:

1. Cost

Depending on the company, you may be able to save money by using both removal and storage services. Some removal companies offer discounts for customers who choose to store their belongings with them. While this isn't always guaranteed, some companies may provide savings for those who prepay in advance or agree to a reduced storage rate when booking the removal services. It's always a good idea to inquire about any potential discounts or promotions when planning your move, as it can help reduce overall moving costs.

2. Declutter

If you prefer to take your time settling into your new home and unpacking gradually, using a storage facility can be a great option to help with decluttering. By moving essential items to your new property and placing the rest in storage, you can create a more organized and stress-free move.

Before renting a storage unit, it's helpful to decide how long you plan to store your items. Many storage facilities offer discounts if you prepay for the storage period in advance, so it’s worth considering this to save on costs.

3. New Job

If you've accepted a new job elsewhere and need to relocate quickly, a storage facility can be extremely useful during your move. Many removal companies offer storage solutions that can accommodate your needs.

Some companies provide nationwide storage facilities, while others offer container storage units that can be transported to your new property. This flexibility allows you to find a removal and storage company that best suits your specific situation, ensuring your belongings are safely stored while you transition to your new job and location.

4. Renovating

If you're planning to renovate your new property, utilizing a storage facility can be an excellent way to protect your belongings and create space for the renovation work. Storing your goods off-site ensures they’re safe from potential damage and frees up space to work on your home.

While using storage can extend your moving-in timeline, it offers significant advantages during renovations. You can prepay for storage for the duration of your renovation if you have a clear timeline in mind. Alternatively, if you're uncertain about the duration of the renovation, many companies offer flexible, rolling contracts where you pay monthly with no set exit date. Be sure to discuss the terms with your storage company in advance to ensure the arrangement meets your needs.

5. Sell Property

Storage can be extremely useful if you're in the process of selling your property and need a place to store your belongings while you're between homes. This is especially helpful if you're downsizing, as it allows you to move items out of the way, making your property more appealing to potential buyers.

If you're looking to sell your property quickly, it's important to organise storage as early as possible to ensure your belongings are secure and easily accessible when needed. Having a storage solution in place can help reduce stress and give you the flexibility to move forward with the sale and your next steps.

6. Travel Abroad

If you're traveling abroad, storing your belongings can be a practical solution. Moving goods internationally requires significant time and preparation, so placing your items in storage—either in the UK or at your new destination—can provide flexibility and peace of mind.

For temporary moves abroad, using storage allows you to keep your belongings safe without the added expense of shipping them overseas. If you're moving abroad permanently, having a storage option at your new destination gives you the opportunity to take your time with the relocation, ensuring everything is handled properly and at your own pace. This can be especially useful if you're unsure of your long-term plans or need time to settle in.

7. 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.

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:

1. Self Storage

Self-storage is a highly popular option for those needing temporary or long-term storage. These facilities are typically large warehouses containing a variety of unit sizes and containers to suit different needs. Most self-storage companies offer flexible access hours, with many providing 24/7 access to your stored items, giving you the convenience to retrieve or add to your belongings at any time.

The cost of renting a self-storage unit is generally based on the size of the unit or container. Larger units or containers tend to come at a higher price, while smaller units are more affordable. This pricing structure ensures that customers only pay for the space they need, making it a flexible and cost-effective storage solution.

2. Container Storage

Container storage units are another popular choice for people in need of storage. Unlike self-storage units, these containers are typically kept outdoors rather than inside a warehouse, making them an excellent option for those who may not live near a traditional storage facility. The container is usually a large, secure metal box that can hold a significant amount of goods.

One of the key advantages of container storage is its convenience for individuals who need a more accessible storage option outside traditional indoor facilities. However, if your container is stored at a designated site, it’s important to check the opening hours set by the storage company, as access may not be as flexible as with self-storage. Still, container storage offers a reliable, secure, and cost-effective solution for those needing storage space.

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:

1. Finalise the Logistics

The best place to start when organizing removals and storage is to finalize the logistics with your moving company. Having a clear timeframe for both the move and any storage needs ensures that you know exactly where your belongings will be at all times. It helps keep everything organized and allows you to focus on other aspects of the move, like unpacking or setting up your new home. By coordinating these details early on, you can avoid confusion and ensure a smooth transition.

2. Pack in Advance

It's crucial to know in advance which belongings will be sent to your new property and which will be placed in storage. This level of preparation will significantly improve your organization and help ensure that everything is accounted for. Additionally, having a clear idea of what items will be stored allows you to choose the appropriate size storage unit, ensuring you don’t pay for more space than you need while keeping your belongings safe and secure.

3. Packaging Goods Correctly

If you have valuable or fragile items, it’s essential to ensure they are packed properly to avoid any damage during the move. Many removal companies offer professional packing services where they use high-quality materials to safeguard your belongings. However, if you prefer to handle the packing yourself, you can always request packing supplies from your removal company to ensure your items are well-protected.

4. Insurance

Choosing a removal and storage company that provides various insurance options is essential for peace of mind. At Omni Removals, all of our partners offer Goods in Transit and Public Liability insurance, meaning your belongings are covered in the event of theft or damage during the move.

Properly packing your items before placing them in storage is crucial to ensure their safety. Depending on the storage facility's conditions, your belongings may be exposed to environmental factors such as temperature and humidity, which could cause damage. By securely packing your goods with quality materials, you can minimize these risks and protect your items from potential harm. Additionally, proper packing enhances security by making it harder for unauthorized individuals to access your belongings.

5. Type of Storage

As mentioned earlier, determining the type of storage you need is crucial before making any decisions. The type of storage you choose will directly affect the kind of items you can store and how they’ll be handled. That’s why it’s important to research and understand each type of storage option thoroughly. By doing so, you’ll make a more informed decision that best suits your needs.

Storage services are highly sought after for various reasons. Some individuals may be students heading off on long holidays and need a place to store their belongings temporarily. Others may be employees moving abroad for an extended period and don’t want to ship everything. Additionally, families who are in the process of selling their home and buying a new one often rely on storage to hold their possessions during the transition.

No matter your situation, having the right storage option in place can help make your move smoother and less stressful.