What happens to your things in storage between two homes

Here we explain what happens to your belongings when they go into storage between moving out of one home and into the next, and what to sort out before they go. Our removals and storage service uses local storage suppliers we work with or an out-of-town warehouse that we manage for you.

Completion dates often fail to line up, which can leave a gap between homes. A clear storage plan lets you choose which belongings come back first and keeps them within reach.

How removals and storage work between two homes

We start with a survey at your current home, either in person or by video. Our removals survey shows us what needs moving and how much storage space your belongings will take. We also check access so our crew can plan the collection properly.

On moving day, our crew wraps and packs your belongings as we would for any home move. Our crew also writes an inventory of every item and box going into storage, so you have a clear record of what has gone in. We then load the van and take everything to the store on the day you move out.

For belongings you may need while they are in storage, we arrange easy access storage with a local supplier we work with. You can visit your unit during the supplier’s opening hours and take out what you need. For goods you will not need until your new home is ready, we manage limited access warehousing out of town. Our crew delivers the goods there and collects them when your move can go ahead.

How we protect your belongings while they wait

We protect furniture with padded blankets or breathable covers while it waits in storage. Tight plastic wrap can trap moisture against wooden furniture during a long stay, so we avoid using it for that job. Mattresses go into sealed mattress covers to keep dust and dirt off.

Our team stacks heavy boxes at the bottom and lighter boxes on top. Boxes never stand on sofas, armchairs or other soft furniture, where the weight could leave lasting marks. We label every box on the side as well as the top, so you can still see what is inside once the boxes are stacked. Our guide on how to pack your goods when moving home covers the packing itself.

In an easy access unit we leave a clear gap to walk down and put anything you may need near the door, so you can reach one box without moving half the stack. Storage suppliers do not accept food, plants, paint, gas bottles or anything flammable, so those items need another home before collection day.

What to sort out before your things go into store

Before your belongings go into store, ask the storage supplier exactly what its insurance covers, including the exclusions and the process for reporting damage. Your home contents policy may also cover goods in storage, so read the terms or speak to your insurer. Keep written confirmation of any cover that applies.

Keep a copy of the inventory somewhere you can reach without visiting the unit. Take clear photos of anything valuable or fragile before collection, showing its condition and any existing marks. Keep passports, important documents, jewellery, medicines and laptops with you. Storage is the wrong place for anything you may need at short notice or could not replace.

Tell us which belongings you want first at your new home. We plan the loading so those items go into store last and come out first. Once your completion date is fixed, agree with us how much notice we need to collect everything from storage and deliver it to the new address. Early notice lets us reserve the right crew and van for the day.

A checklist before your belongings go into storage

• Book the home survey early, so we can plan the storage properly.
• Choose easy access local storage if you need visits, or limited access warehousing for longer stays.
• Check what the storage insurance covers before collection.
• Keep valuables and important documents with you.
• Empty and defrost the fridge and freezer before storage.
• Label every box on the side so the contents stay clear when stacked.
• Keep a copy of the inventory somewhere safe.
• Give us plenty of notice of your delivery date.

Frequently asked questions

Can I get something out of storage before the move is finished?

Yes. With easy access storage you can visit the unit and collect what you need, while limited access warehousing needs us to arrange the collection in advance with the storage supplier.

Do I need to pack differently for storage?

Pack your belongings as you would for a move, but fill each box fully so it does not crush when stacked. Breathable covers protect furniture without trapping moisture.

Can you deliver from storage to my new home on the day I complete?

We can often deliver on completion day if you give us enough notice. The keys need to be released in time for our team to unload at the new home.

When you ask us for a quote, tell us your moving out date and your moving in date. We can then plan the move and the storage together, so your belongings have a place to wait and a clear date to come home.