Storage during a move

The short answer

A gap between selling one property and entering another is common, and most households cover it with either self-storage units rented by the week or month, or storage held by the removal firm itself in their own warehouse. The right choice depends on how long the gap is, how much needs storing, and whether you need access to items during the interim period.

Self-storage versus removal firm storage

Self-storage units let you access your belongings whenever the site is open, which suits longer gaps or situations where you need certain items during the interim. Removal firm storage is usually cheaper for short gaps of a few days to a couple of weeks, since the same crew loads, holds and delivers the belongings without a separate move.

Sizing and cost

Storage is typically priced per square foot per week, with unit sizes ranging from a small locker for a few boxes to a unit large enough for a full house. Most providers ask for a minimum stay and a deposit, and insurance is usually required, either through the provider or your own contents policy.

Practical tips for storing during a move

Keep an inventory of what has gone into storage, store frequently needed items towards the front or in a clearly labelled box, and check whether the facility is heated and dry if you are storing furniture, electronics or documents for an extended period.

What it usually costs

Indicative ranges only, to help you judge a quote. They are not an estimate for your property — only the business doing the work can give you that.

• Self-storage unit for a one-bedroom flat's contents: roughly £30–£60 per week
• Larger units for a three-bedroom house: roughly £60–£120 per week
• Removal firm short-term storage as part of a move: often £50–£150 per week depending on volume
• Insurance for stored contents: sometimes included, otherwise typically £5–£15 per month extra

What to do, in order

1. 1Work out how many weeks of storage you realistically need
2. 2Compare self-storage sites and removal firm holding options
3. 3Check access hours if you will need items during the gap
4. 4Confirm insurance cover for the storage period
5. 5Label boxes clearly and keep a written inventory
6. 6Book storage to align with your confirmed dates of entry

Local detail for the Lothians

• Self-storage facilities are available in and around Edinburgh, including sites near the city bypass that are easier for van access than central locations
• For moves involving narrow New Town closes, removal firms often prefer to load directly into their own storage rather than a self-storage unit with awkward access
• Households moving to or from commuter towns such as Dalkeith or Musselburgh may find storage sites on the edge of Edinburgh more convenient than central options
• Rural East Lothian moves sometimes involve a longer round trip to a storage facility, which can affect removal firm pricing for the collection and redelivery legs

Common questions

How long can I store belongings for?

Most facilities have no fixed maximum, but pricing is usually per week or month, so it is worth reviewing costs if a gap runs longer than expected.

Can removal firms deliver straight from storage?

Yes, most firms offering storage will redeliver directly to the new property once you confirm the date of entry.

Related pages

• Removal companies

  What removal firms typically charge, what affects the price, and questions worth asking before booking.

• Date of entry and keys

  How the Scottish date of entry works, and what happens on the day keys are handed over.

• Moving home checklist

  A week-by-week plan covering everything from instructing a solicitor to collecting the keys.