Storage guide: choosing the right storage for your move
What is removals storage?
Removals storage — sometimes called containerised or managed storage — means your removal company collects your belongings, stores them securely and delivers them when you're ready. It's different from renting a self-storage unit, where you hire a van, load it yourself and drive to the facility. With Friends Logists UK, storage is combined with our removals service, so one team handles everything.
Removals storage vs self storage
| Removals storage (with us) | Self storage | |
|---|---|---|
| Collection & delivery | Included in your move | You hire a van and move items yourself |
| Loading | Done by our team | Done by you |
| Access | By arrangement with notice | Usually during facility opening hours |
| Best for | Moves, chain delays, renovations | Frequent access to items |
When do you need storage during a move?
Property chain delays
If you must leave your current home before you can get the keys to your new one, we collect your belongings on your moving-out day, store them, and deliver to your new home once it's ready — without you needing two separate removal companies.
Renovations and building work
Protect furniture from dust and damage while kitchens, bathrooms or extensions are being built. We collect what needs to go and bring it back when the work is finished.
Downsizing and decluttering
Moving to a smaller home? Store furniture and belongings you're not ready to part with while you decide what to keep.
Business storage
Store surplus office furniture, archive boxes, seasonal stock and equipment — ideal alongside an office relocation.
How to prepare belongings for storage
- Clean and fully dry appliances such as fridges and washing machines before storing them.
- Use strong, sealed boxes and fill them completely so they stack safely.
- Wrap upholstered furniture and mattresses in covers to keep them clean.
- Make a list of what's in storage, and keep items you'll need soon separate.
- Don't store perishable food, flammable liquids, gas bottles or anything hazardous.
Our packing service can prepare everything for storage for you.
How much does storage cost?
Storage is priced by how much space your belongings take up and how long you need it. Because collection and redelivery can be combined with your removal, removals storage often works out better value than hiring a van and a self-storage unit separately. Tell us roughly what you want to store and for how long and we'll give you a clear price.