Need Storage Between Homes? Here Is How to Keep It Painless

Whether your chain slipped or the builders need another fortnight, short-term storage keeps the move on track. The challenge is staying organised so you can put your hands on anything within minutes—even when it is tucked away in a storage container.

Choose the Right Storage Format

Containerised storage keeps items sealed, inventoried, and untouched until delivery—ideal if you are between addresses for a few weeks. Self-storage offers 24/7 access if you need to dip in for work files or seasonal kit. Always ask about humidity control for wooden furniture and the level of insurance included.

• Label boxes on two sides with the destination room and a quick-fire contents summary.
• Keep a digital index in a shared spreadsheet or notes app—note which container or unit houses each item.
• Verify insurance covers goods in transit and while stored; some policies need explicit declarations.

Pack for Storage, Not Just Transport

Wrap upholstered furniture in breathable pads to avoid condensation. Disassemble beds and tables, then tape hardware in labelled bags to the relevant piece. Store books upright in smaller cartons and cover mattresses with specialist bags or reusable covers.

Plan Retrieval Before You Need It

If you might need sports kit, archived documents, or the kids' uniforms, load them last so they sit near the container door. Leave a narrow aisle in self-storage units to reach items at the back without unpacking everything.

“Storage is only stressful when you cannot find what you are looking for—labelling and indexing are half the battle.”

— Warehouse Manager, New Dawn Movers UK

When it is time for delivery, share your digital inventory with the crew so they can stage items in the correct rooms straight from storage. You will be back to normal life faster than you think.