Whether you’re between homes, renovating, downsizing, or simply in need of some extra space, moving your belongings into storage can be a smart and practical solution. But to ensure your items stay safe, and in good condition, it’s important to prepare properly especially if you’re storing your belongings long-term.
We’ll walk you through everything you need to know when moving into storage, from prepping your items to choosing the right facility and making the most of the space.
Prepping for Your Move into Storage
The first step is to prepare your items before they go into storage. Doing this will save you time, money, and stress later on:
- Declutter first – There’s no point paying to store things you no longer want. The larger space you need, the more it is going to cost! Sell, donate or recycle anything you won’t need again.
- Clean and dry – Always clean and fully dry furniture, appliances, and kitchenware to avoid mould or bad smells, this will also save you a job when the time comes to move your furniture to a new destination.
- Use quality packing materials – Invest in strong boxes, and good quality packing materials! The boxes you use will likely be stacked on top of one another to make efficient use of space in the unit. It is important that the boxes are built to last the long term pressure put on them to keep their contents safe.
- Label everything – You’ll thank yourself later when you’re trying to find that one specific item.
Choosing the Right Storage Facility
All facilities are different and it’s important to look into the details to find suitable safe storage that meets your requirements.
- Security – Opt for alarmed facilities with 24/7 CCTV. Robust security means peace of mind for your valuables.
- Dryness & Cleanliness – A clean, well ventilated facility prevents mould, rust and dust build up. Check that the facility is regularly inspected and suitable for your storage needs.
- Flexible Terms & Transparent Pricing – Look for clear, no surprise pricing. Be aware of any added hidden costs and potential changes to your contracts for using longer storage terms than initially expected. Added extras such as contents insurance and packing supplies can also save you money and hassle.
Flexi Removals offers secure, clean units on straightforward terms and at competitive rates. Get in touch and we’ll match you with the ideal short or long term storage solution.
Choosing the Right Unit Size
Picking the right size unit is key. Too small, and you’ll struggle to fit everything in safely. Too big, and you may end up paying for unused space unnecessarily. It’s all about finding the right balance based on what you’re storing and how long you’ll be storing it for.
While you can often stack boxes high and fill space quite tightly, it’s still important to pack the unit carefully to avoid damaging furniture or crushing fragile items. For long-term storage especially, you should allow space for airflow and avoid placing heavy items directly on top of soft furnishings or delicate surfaces.
Using a professional removals team like Flexi Removals can make all the difference. We know how to pack your unit efficiently without risking damage and we’ll ensure every inch of space is used properly. (We cover more on this in the removals section below.)
We’ll also recommend the most suitable unit size based on your needs whether you’re moving into our own storage facility or using another provider. With the right advice and support, you can make the most of your storage without stress or wasted space.
What You Can and Can’t Store
Most everyday items are perfectly safe to store, but there are some things that are strictly prohibited in storage facilities:
🚫 Do not store:
- Perishable food or drinks
- Ammunition or weapons
- Flammable materials (e.g. petrol, gas canisters, aerosols)
- Living things (plants or animals)
✅ Safe to store:
- Furniture, white goods, electronics
- Clothes, books, documents
- Tools, equipment, and boxed household goods
When in doubt, always check with the facility before moving in.
Hiring a Removal Company for Your Storage Move
Moving into storage doesn’t have to be a stressful experience — especially when you hire professionals to help.
At Flexi Removals, we regularly help customers move into local storage facilities across Lancashire and beyond. Our team knows how to pack your unit efficiently and safely, maximising the space and protecting your belongings from damage.
Whether you’re storing items for a couple of weeks or several months, we’ll make sure everything is handled with care. You can sit back and relax while we handle the loading, transport, and organisation for you.
