Should You Utilise Storage When Moving House?
Congratulations – you are moving to a new home! This comprehensive moving house guide explains storage usage, costs, and appropriateness for your needs. Whether upsizing, downsizing or moving in with a friend or partner, relocating to a new home can be a tumultuous journey filled with various tasks, such as packing, finalising contracts, and addressing utilities. Amidst these challenges, it’s not uncommon to feel overwhelmed. However, one practical solution to alleviate some of this stress is utilising a storage facility like Norbreck Self Storage.
The Benefits of Utilising Storage During a Move
Leveraging a storage facility when moving house can significantly reduce the stress associated with moving day. It allows you to stagger the relocation of your belongings. Items not immediately needed can be moved out of your current home in advance and transferred to your new residence at a more convenient time.
Imagine a scenario where your new garden shed is not yet ready. A storage unit can safely house these items instead of cluttering your new space with gardening tools. Storage facilities also solve unforeseen moving challenges, such as delayed moving dates or necessary renovations in your new home.
Moreover, moving your possessions to storage while staying in temporary accommodation can transform you into a chain-free buyer, potentially simplifying and adding flexibility to your moving process.
What Can You Store In A Storage Facility?
Self-storage centres provide various unit sizes, from small lockers to large rooms. These units are designed for safety, featuring external locks, CCTV, and alarm systems. The flexibility of lease durations and adjustable costs based on your specific needs makes self-storage convenient. You can store a wide array of items in your self-storage unit, making it the perfect solution to keep those valuable items safe when you are in the middle of moving house!
What you can store | What you can’t store |
Bulky furniture items (sofas, tables etc) | Food and perishable items |
Prized possessions (photos and memorabilia) | Flammable or explosive products |
Clothes and other fabric items | Hazardous materials |
Seasonal items (Christmas decs) | Living Organisms |
Garden items | Pets (this should go without saying!) |
Tools and equipment | Irreplaceable items |
Optimal Timing for Storage Usage
Ideal situations for using a storage facility include:
- Decluttering your home before moving day.
- Planning renovations in your new home.
- Managing complications on moving days, such as being part of a large housing chain.
Selecting the Right Storage Facility
Security Considerations
When choosing a storage facility, security is paramount. Be cautious of facilities with unsupervised 24/7 access. Invest in a high-quality padlock and consider facilities closer to your new home to ease checking on your belongings.
Facility Conditions
Avoid storage facilities with unmonitored internal conditions. Use tools like humidity operators and damp sticks to protect your items from moisture.
Accessibility
Ensure easy access to your unit, especially in a large facility. Consider the unit’s distance from the entrance to avoid increased moving costs.
Seamless Removals and Storage
Opt for a local company that handles removals near your chosen storage location. Find your local moving company here. This ensures a streamlined process and accountability throughout the moving and storage phases.
Choosing the Correct Unit Size
Unit size can be tricky to determine. Use the size of your removal van as a guide, and consider the height of the storage unit’s ceiling. Here’s a quick reference:
- Short wheelbase transit: 35 square feet
- Long wheelbase high top transit: 50 square feet
- Luton van: 75 square feet
- 7.5 tonne Luton van: 125 square feet
- 15-tonne Luton van: 200 square feet
- Articulated lorry: 300 square feet
Remember, these are just guides, and your needs may vary.
Understanding Storage Costs
Storage costs depend on unit size and lease duration. Consider weekly billing for flexibility and carefully choose your unit size to avoid unnecessary costs. Be wary of introductory deals that may be more expensive in the long run.
Insurance for Stored Items
Even in secure facilities, insurance is essential. Opt for an FSA-regulated policy and be cautious of expensive in-house insurance options.
Making Moving Day Easier
Effective Packing
Use durable packing materials and label boxes clearly, especially for fragile items. Organising your storage space and packing strategically can significantly ease the process.
Space Maximisation
Utilise storage tricks such as storing long items vertically to maximise space. Remember to keep an inventory of all items and create a map of your storage unit for easy item retrieval.
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Norbreck Self Storage for Your Moving House Needs
As you embark on your moving house journey, consider Norbreck Self Storage as your partner in easing the process. Our comprehensive services and customer-focused approach make us an ideal choice for your storage needs. Contact Norbreck Self Storage today to book a consultation and discover how we can facilitate a smoother transition to your new home.