Removals and storage: for dates that don't line up
Sold before you've found the next place? Completion dates a fortnight apart? It happens all the time. One company collects your things, stores them, and redelivers when the keys finally turn up. Compare free quotes from vetted removal companies in about two minutes.
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The gap problem
Temporary storage when moving house
If your moving dates don't line up, book removals and storage together: the crew collects on completion day, holds everything in a sealed container, and redelivers when your new home is ready. One contract, one insurance policy, no double-handling — and you only pay for the weeks you use.
The classic cases: a chain break where you've sold but haven't bought, a new place that needs renovating before you move in, or downsizing overflow that needs somewhere to live while you decide. A completion gap of a week or three is the most common of all.
The combination beats arranging storage and removals separately — the same company that quotes yourhouse removals holds your things and brings them back, with insurance that covers the whole journey rather than an argument about whose van the scratch happened in.
Two different tools
Container storage vs self storage
Removal companies use container storage: your things go into a 250 cubic foot wooden container at their depot, sealed, and left untouched until redelivery. Cheaper per week, nothing for you to lug — but access means an appointment and sometimes a fee. Self storage is the opposite trade: a unit you can visit whenever, but you do the moving in and out, and it costs more.
Typical money: £15–£25 a week for a container against£25–£45 for an equivalent self-storage unit. If you won't need your things until moving-in day, container storage usually wins. If you'll be in and out every weekend, pay for self storage and don't fight it.
The numbers
What does storage cost with a removal?
The weekly storage cost follows volume — a 250 cubic foot container holds roughly a 1-bed flat's worth.
- 1 container (250 cu ft) ≈ 1-bed flat
- typically £15–£25 a week
- 2–3 containers ≈ 2–3 bed house
- typically £30–£65 a week
- 4+ containers ≈ 4-bed and up
- typically £60–£100 a week
Two honest extras to budget for: a redelivery charge when your things come back — usually similar to the original collection, so ask for it in writing up front — and insurance while stored, typically priced per £1,000 of declared value. Packing for storage matters more than for a straight move;packing services can do it to warehouse standard. Full price context lives in theremoval costs guide.
Days or years
How long can you store for?
As long as the gap lasts. Short-term storage between house moves is usually days to a few weeks — chain gaps and late completions. Long-term runs months or years: working abroad (pair it withinternational removals), extended renovations, or aflat move into somewhere smaller while you hunt for the right house.
Most companies bill weekly with around a one-week minimum — so a nine-day gap costs two weeks of storage, not a month.
Where we cover
Storage with your move, wherever you are
Companies that collect, store and redeliver quote through Removly — start with your city.
Good to know
Removals and storage FAQs
How much does storage cost for a 3-bed house?
Typically £30–£65 a week — a 3-bed home usually fills two to three 250 cubic foot containers. Add insurance while stored and, later, a redelivery fee. Quotes bundle these differently, so compare the whole cost of the gap, not just the weekly rate.
Can I get to my things while they’re stored?
Not easily, with container storage — containers are sealed and stacked in a warehouse, so access means an appointment and often a fee. If you'll need regular access, self storage is the better tool. Pack an essentials box that travels with you instead.
Is my stuff insured in storage?
Storage insurance is usually separate from transit cover — check both are in the quote. Declare an honest replacement value; underinsuring is the classic mistake. And ask your home insurer too: some contents policies cover stored goods for a period.
Will the removal company redeliver from storage later?
Yes — that's the point of the combination. Give a week or so of notice for redelivery, more in summer. The redelivery leg is usually priced like the original collection; get that figure in writing when you book.
What can't go into storage?
The same list as the removal van, plus anything perishable: no food, plants, fuel, gas bottles, paint or solvents. Fridges and freezers must go in dry and defrosted, or you'll be very unpopular at the depot.
Dates not lining up?
Two minutes — up to five quotes covering the move and the storage. Free, no obligation.