Storage helps when there is a gap between two houses, when you are renovating, or when you are going abroad for a while. The risks are damp, pests, missing items and disputes at the time of release. A good inventory and a dry, secure warehouse solve most of them.
What's included
| Task | What it covers | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Survey | Volume of goods and special items | Determines space needed |
| Packing | Cartons, wrap, blankets, crates; furniture covered | Storage packing should be stronger than for a local move |
| Inventory | Numbered list of every item and box | Signed by both sides; photos for valuable items |
| Transport to warehouse | Covered vehicle and labour | |
| Storage | Space in a shared or dedicated area | Ask about pallets and racking |
| Periodic checks (optional) | Pest control, inspection | Ask how often |
| Release and delivery | Retrieval and delivery to the new address | Partial release may be charged separately |
When you need it
- Your new house is not ready when your lease ends
- Renovation of your current home
- Moving abroad or to another city temporarily
- Decluttering before selling or renting a house
Step-by-step process
- Post your requirement with your address, the expected storage period and a list of goods.
- Visit the warehouse if you can. Check roof, walls, floor and security.
- Written quote. Packing, transport in, monthly storage, transport out, and any access fee.
- Packing and inventory. Every item numbered; keep a signed copy and photos.
- Storage. Goods kept off the floor where possible, covered and separated.
- During storage. Ask how you can visit or take out an item.
- Release. Give notice as agreed, pay dues, and goods are delivered.
- Check on delivery against the inventory and note any damage.
Approvals and documents
No approval is needed. Your key documents are the signed inventory, the storage agreement (period, monthly charge, notice for release, liability) and payment receipts.
Do not store cash, jewellery, documents, medicines, gas cylinders, fuel or perishable food.
What affects the cost
- Volume of goods or space reserved
- Storage period, and whether a longer commitment is discounted
- Packing level and crating
- Transport in and out, and distance
- Dedicated locked space versus shared area
- Climate or pest control measures
- Partial retrieval or access visits
- Any insurance or damage cover
Compare at least three written quotes for the same volume and period.
Short-term or long-term storage?
| Need | What usually suits | What to agree |
|---|---|---|
| A few weeks between houses | Goods stay packed in a shared area | Easy release with short notice |
| Several months (renovation, abroad) | Locked or dedicated space, stronger packing | Pest control, inspection visits, extension terms |
| Business stock or files | Racked, organised storage with an index | Partial retrieval charges and access hours |
Questions to ask the provider
- Where is the warehouse and can I see it?
- Is my space shared or locked separately?
- How do you protect against damp, rain, termites and rats?
- Who has access, and is there security and CCTV?
- How much notice do you need for release?
- What happens if something is damaged or missing?
Red flags
- No warehouse visit allowed
- Goods stored directly on a damp floor
- No signed inventory
- Unclear monthly charge or hidden "handling" fees at release
- No written agreement on liability
FAQs
How should furniture be packed for storage? Wrapped in blankets or film, with legs and corners protected, and kept off the floor. Avoid sealing damp items in plastic.
Can I take out one item during storage? Usually yes, with notice and sometimes a handling fee. Confirm in the agreement.
Is it safe to store electronics? Pack them in original boxes or padded cartons and keep them dry. Remove batteries where possible.
How do I protect goods from termites? Ask the provider about pest control and whether wooden items are kept away from walls and floors.
What if I need storage longer than planned? Ask how extensions are charged before you sign.
Sources
This guide is based on general trade practice and does not quote rates or rules. Get written quotes for current prices.