Using Storage When Moving House: Everything You Need to Know
This guide covers everything you need to know about using storage during a house move.
Why Should You Use Storage When Moving House?
There are several common situations where storage makes a real difference:
- There’s a gap between leaving your current property and getting into the new one. Even a few days can leave you needing somewhere for your belongings to go.
- You’re downsizing and can’t fit everything into the new property straight away. Storage gives you time to make decisions without pressure.
- You’re renovating before moving in. It’s much easier to have a property stripped back and decorated before your furniture arrives.
- You want to stage your home to sell. Decluttering and storing excess furniture can make a real difference to how your property presents.
- The chain is unpredictable. A storage unit gives you a buffer if things change at short notice.
How Does BoxSafe Storage Work During a Move?
At BoxSafe, the process is easy and straightforward. You choose the unit size you need, reserve it with no deposit required and no payment until your move-in date, and then move your belongings in whenever you’re ready.
You have your own padlock and 24/7 access to your unit. If your situation changes, you can adjust your start date as many times as you need without any charge. And when you’re ready to move out of storage and into your new home, you give us notice.
What Size Storage Unit Do You Need for a House Move?
This depends on how much you’re storing. As a rough guide:
- One to two rooms of furniture and boxes: an 8ft x 5ft or 8ft x 7ft container
- A one or two-bedroom property: an 8ft x 7ft or 10ft x 8ft container
- A three to four-bedroom house: a 20ft x 8ft container
If you’re unsure, contact us and we’ll help you choose the right size.
What Should You Store and What Shouldn’t You?
Most household items are perfectly suitable for container storage: furniture, white goods, boxes, clothing, books, appliances, garden equipment. Our containers are made from high-quality steel and are weatherproof, so your belongings are protected from the elements.
A few things to bear in mind:
- food or perishable goods unless securely packed so they are protected from and do not attract vermin;
- any living creatures;
- combustible or flammable substances such as gas, paint, petrol, oil, cleaning solvents or compressed gases;
- firearms, explosives, weapons or ammunition;
- chemicals, radioactive materials, biological agents; toxic waste, asbestos or other potentially hazardous substances;
- any item that emits fumes, or odours;
- any illegal item or substances or goods illegally obtained such as illicit (counterfeit/smuggled) tobacco or alcohol and unlicensed or unsafe goods (such as toys, electrical goods, medicines, aerosols, cosmetics, fireworks);
- goods which are environmentally harmful or that are a risk to the property of any person;
- items which are irreplaceable, which may include, currency, jewellery, furs, deeds, paintings, curios, works of art and items of personal sentimental value.
Our team is happy to answer any questions before you book.
Tips for Using Storage During a House Move
- Reserve your unit as soon as you know you’ll need it. Reservations are free and flexible, so there’s no risk in booking early.
- Label your boxes clearly and put things you’ll need first access to at the front of your unit.
- Dismantle large furniture where possible. Bed frames especially take up far less space when broken down.
- Use the height of the container. Stack boxes on top of furniture to make the most of the full space.
- Keep an inventory. Even a simple list of what’s in each box saves a lot of time when you’re unpacking.
- We sell a range of moving boxes and packing materials at our locations if you need supplies.
How Long Will You Need Storage For?
It varies. Some customers need a unit for two or three weeks to bridge a gap between properties. Others use storage throughout a renovation that stretches over several months. We offer flexible rental with a minimum period of four weeks, and you’re not locked into a long-term contract, so you can stay for exactly as long as your move requires. Read more about how our flexible rental terms work.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I move in on the same day I enquire?
Yes, in most cases. Provided we have availability and you’ve supplied the required documentation (a photo ID and proof of address) you can move in on the same day. On your move-in morning, you’ll receive an email with all your access information.
Can I change my move-in date after reserving?
Absolutely. We understand that moving dates change. You can update your start date as many times as you need, and no payment is taken until you actually move in. There’s no deposit either.
Can I access my unit during the move?
Yes. All our container units have 24/7 access via a key fob linked to your unit. Our Bournemouth indoor facility has access from 5am to midnight, 365 days a year.
What’s included in the price?
Your quoted price covers four weeks of container rental and includes a heavy-duty padlock, a key, and an electric gate fob. There are no hidden fees.
Can I add another unit if I need more space?
Yes. If you move in and realise you need more room, you can add additional units to your account at any time. There may be a small pro-rata adjustment to align the billing, but the process is straightforward.
If you’re planning a move and think storage might help, we’re happy to talk it through. Call us on 03300 566975, message us on WhatsApp, or browse our locations to check availability near you.