FORMAL FURNITURE STORAGE

This is sometimes referred to as warehouse storage, and is normally controlled exclusively by the removalist company. This is the traditional form of storage.

The mode of storage is a large enclosed area within which a number of separate customers have their goods stored. Due to lack of regulation, such stores range from superb to disgusting. For this reason, it is recommended that customers view storage before contracting.

When viewing the storage facilities, take note that:

• Stored goods are stacked with inserts to protect polished or soft surfaces
• Fridges and freezers are blocked open to prevent mould or damage to auto defrost mechanisms
• Each item is tagged with identity of its owner and number
• There is clear segregation between the loads
• Adequate dust sheeting is used
• Adequate pest control is employed and the frequency it is applied

These factors will enable you to obtain benefits and unwanted problems.
Bay Removals has a well equipped warehouse which is pest controlled and has 24 hour security.

COSTS vary but for a general guidance:
Formal storage is normally the cheapest way to go as it is determined by volume. A weekly fee is determined by the amount of space your furniture takes up. Good quality stores will normally charge an entry and exit fee to cover the costs of protective measures. Storage charges are always in advance.
At pick up, the removalist will normally require payment for:

• The removal
• Store entry
• Four weeks storage in advance

Subsequent storage payments then follow on with accounts sent monthly. When your goods are leaving storage, the amount owing to that date will be assessed. Before your goods leave storage, the removalist will require payment in advance, usually by cash or bank cheque.

POINTS TO WATCH

Not being charged entry or exit fees can sound very attractive, but protection costs money, so check what you are going to get. Customers should get full written statements of costs and fees, including re-delivery. This should be obtained before accepting a quotation.

ACCESS

If your goods have come some distance, you may need a few essentials that could not fit in your car. If you have clearly told the removalist to leave these at the front of the stack, you will be able to pick these up. This is usually done as a courtesy. If you expect the removalist to pull down the whole stack of furniture and reinstate it, then you will have to expect to pay.

WARNING: Dangerous goods or any form of food stuff in whatever type of container are not recommended or allowed to be stored at any storage facility.

SELF STORAGE

Mini stores are something like a garage that you are able to drive up to. Costing is usually determined by the size of the unit you require. A bond may also be required to cover any damage that may occur to either the unit or the driveway. This will be refunded after inspection at termination of occupancy.

Self-storage units are usually small beehive type cubicles set inside large warehouses. This means you will not be able to drive to your unit. You may have to load your furniture on the cargo lift to the third floor and then unload it and walk it to the other side of the building to where your unit is situated. Remember time is money.

Whether you can waste the time to move it yourself or you pay a removalist to do the job it will still cost YOU. Generally these units are charged by the accessibility.

Both these types of storage have their advantages. They enable the public, in business or private, to store a vast range of goods that were not practical in formal storage.

The accessibility is 7 days a week, long hours, in some cases, 24 hours a day; the customer also retains the keys and the responsibility for their goods. Above all, these outlets give the customer choice and control of their own activities.

Notice of termination of use is normally required to avoid additional rental payments.

If self-storage accounts go in arrears, it is standard practice to over-lock them. This denies access to stored goods until the account is made current.

Customers should check contracts carefully for prohibited items that may invalidate any insurance taken out. Customers should take adequate pest control precautions and exclude ALL FOODSTUFFS in any kind of container.

CONTAINER STORAGE

Although this form of storage has been around for a long time, it is not very widely used, because of the need for specialist vehicles, such as forklifts.

In addition to having the buying power to purchase enough furniture wrapping for maybe 100 vans but have it stagnant in store for months or years.

Customers should be aware of their own responsibilities. This is particularly important when your goods are picked up by a container and will remain in there until redelivery. A removalist can not be responsible for pest or eggs that have effectively been locked in with a food source. Take particular pest precautions yourself to your own satisfaction.

Fixed containers are also another substitute for self-storage. These are ideal for the average house load for long term storage. Once they are closed and locked, they are vermin proof. The costing is usually a weekly flat rate and the advantages are similar to that of mini or self-storage within reason (ie: accessible times, availability). Bay Removals have these fixed containers available.

SPECIALIST STORAGE

People want to store all types of goods and possessions. Bay Removals has the availability of undercover car, caravan and boat storage.