Long Term Storage In London | Everything You Need To Know

Maybe you are moving abroad or taking a sabbatical? Perhaps you have downsized to a smaller home, or you’re simply tired of too much clutter?

Whatever the reason, long term storage is an excellent solution if you need to secure your items for a longer period of time. Below we explain everything you need to know about long term storage in London.

What kinds of storage options are there?

First things first. There are two main types of storage in London: container storage and self storage.

Container storage offers storage for your possessions in individual containers, that vary in size, which are housed together within a warehouse or secure compound. Both short and long term storage options are available. 

A self storage facility leases individual units in a storage facility. They come in a variety of sizes and can also be rented for short or long term. 

For an in depth comparison of these 2 types of storage solutions you can read our article on Self storage vs. Container storage. 

What is long term storage and how does it differ from short term storage?

Short term storage offers a space to store your belongings for a short time (days, weeks or even months). It is ideal for people who: 

• Need quick and easy access
• Need to access their belongings often 
• Are relocating to a new home or business and need a short term storage solution 

Long-term storage gives you a place to keep items you want safely stowed away for a long period of time (months or even years). It is ideal for: 

• Downsizing to a smaller home 
• Moving abroad
• Travelling for an extended period of time or taking a sabbatical 
• Office relocation
• Storing seasonal items (winter clothes, skis) 
• Cars, boats and RVs
• Furniture and appliances 

Since you will be storing your items for an extended period of time (months or even years) you need to make sure you pick the type of storage that is best for you. In the next section we discuss why container storage is your best long term storage solution. 

Why is container storage the best option for long term storage?  

Cost

In general, container storage is 50% cheaper than a self storage unit of the same size. This makes container storage an extremely cost effective solution for long term storing. 

Security

With containerised storage, you benefit from the peace of mind that top level security can bring. Containers are stored in the locked facilities of storage companies and can only be accessed by their staff. 

Professional packing

You’ll want to look for a long term storage company that offers full pack and delivery service. This allows you to benefit from the way a professional removals company stacks your containers, ensuring that the space is used as efficiently as possible. Unlike self storage, you only pay for the container space you use. 

Convenience 

Look for a removal company that offers full service (free packing, collection, and return of your items). Some companies even offer delivery of specific items given enough notice, so you never actually have to visit the facility. 

Whether it’s storing seasonal gardening tools, sporting equipment, toys or furniture, container storage offers easy-access and total peace of mind. 

How much does long term container storage cost?

Cost depends on the amount of storage you need and also on the amount of time you will be storing.

A unit of approximately 35 square feet costs between £40 to £60 per week. A larger unit of 75 square feet costs between £75 to £85 per week. At Storage in London, by booking a storage collection service, you receive free packing and moving and will pay just £30 per week for a 35 square foot unit, or £60 per week for a 75 square foot unit.

How much storage space do I need?

When choosing a storage unit facility, one of the toughest decisions is what storage unit size you need. While you don’t want to pay for space you won’t use, you also don’t want to run out of space. We have put together a few questions to ask yourself below, so you can get a better idea of how much space is right for you. 

How much stuff do you have that needs to be stored?

If possible, the best way to start is by putting all the items you’ll need to store into one room. After that, you’ll be able to measure how much space you need.

How long do you intend to have it, and will you be adding to it over time?

If there’s a chance you’ll be adding to your storage unit, then it’s always best to have some extra space. 

Do you have fragile or oddly shaped items?

Boxes are easy to stack and easy to measure. But what about storing a couch, a mirror, a fragile sculpture, or tools? These things likely aren’t stackable and will need some extra space in order to make sure they don’t get damaged while in storage. Factor in some extra room when you have these awkwardly shaped items.

If you’re looking for more tips on choosing the right unit size, check out our article on Things to Consider When Choosing Storage Size. 

How do I pack for long term storage?

Just as important as the materials you use to pack your belongings for storage is how you pack them. Below are our top long term storage packing tips: 

Invest in sturdy boxes

Plastic bins are ideal boxes for storage, as they’re easily stackable and better protect your belongings from moisture, heat, and anything else that might be trying to get inside. You also don’t have to worry about packing tape, since plastic bins are self-sealable. They’re more expensive than cardboard boxes, but because they’re durable you’ll get use out of them for much longer.

Pack fragile items well

Individually wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or newspaper and mark them as fragile. These should always go somewhere safe and away from the rest of the stored items to reduce the risk of damage.

Vacuum seal any clothes or fabrics 

Vacuum sealed bags are fantastic for storing clothes, curtains and general soft furnishings, as this protects against damage, mould, and insects.

Clean appliances well and ensure they are dry

If you’re storing appliances, make sure you’ve cleaned them thoroughly first. Wipe down the interior and exterior with something like baking soda or bleach to make sure you’ve killed all the bacteria – that way you don’t risk any mould growing while it’s stored and spreading to other items.

Label and list

When you’re packing up all of your belongings, be sure to label the boxes and create a master list of everything you’re storing. Be sure to keep one copy of the master list for yourself, and the other inside the storage unit.

Avoid plastic bags

It may be tempting to grab a garbage bag and shove miscellaneous items in there but it’s not a good idea.  Plastic can trap humidity and moisture and cause mildew and mould to grow.

If you don’t want to deal with the arduous task of packing, (and we don’t blame you), it’s worth it to enlist the help of professionals. You need to be careful about how you store your belongings. Using sturdy boxes to protect your things, and how you pack them and stack them in your unit are important details. Contact the team at Store In London today for a free quote. 

What you CAN’T keep in your long term storage unit

Rules and regulations vary from facility to facility, so it’s always best to check with the staff at your storage facility if you have questions about a specific item. While storage units can be used for things like furniture and appliances, clothing, books and electronics, household items and artwork, cars and RVs and even your wine collection, there are certain things you can’t store that include: 

1. Anything alive which includes people, animals and plants 
2. Flammable or combustible items
3. Hazardous materials
4. Perishable food 
5. Items that are susceptible to mould or mildew

It may seem obvious but it’s worth noting that it’s illegal to live or work in your storage unit. In other words, you can’t turn your storage unit into your home or office. If you get caught for either, you’ll likely forfeit your unit and get in trouble with the law.

Ready to store your belongings for the long term at the best price? Store In London offers the lowest rates on storage throughout Greater London.

Take advantage of our free pack and load service. We’ll come to you, pack your belongings, load them into our trucks and deliver them into our safe and secure storage facility.

Our team has years of experience and you can count us to deliver quality and friendly service. We pride ourselves on our high level of customer satisfaction!

Contact us today for more information or book your storage unit directly on our website.