FAQs
General
Why The Box Co.?
We are the most convenient storage solution the UK has to offer. No need to leave the house or worry about logistics: all you have to do is book on our website, we will send you the boxes, pack your items and let our friendly drivers pick them up on the day.
We are also much cheaper than traditional self storage operators. You only pay for what you store, not for empty space in a self storage unit.
How do you work?
It's three simple steps:
- Pick the boxes or container you need and how long you want to store for.
- Decide whether you want us to send you packaging materials (much easier that way).
- Pick your collection date and checkout.
That's it.
Your flat packed packaging materials will arrive a few days before your pickup date to ensure you have plenty of time to get everything ready.
How are you different from Self Storage?
Similar to traditional Self Storage, your items will be securely stored for as long as you wish. However, there are two important differences:
- Convenience: We collect your items from your address and return them to you whenever you need them back, with express returns available in many areas.* This takes out all the hassle that comes with traditional Self Storage, such as organising a van, doing the heavy lifting, spending time moving your items from A to B or paying loads of extra £££ for third parties to help.
- Low Cost: Unlike traditional self storage, we only charge you for what you actually store and not for a large storage space that sits half empty. This makes The Box Co. a much more cost-efficient alternative to traditional self storage providers.
*Standard returns need two working days' notice. Express returns are subject to availability and an additional charge.
Who is behind The Box Co.?
We are an experienced team of property professionals who are passionate about storage and have been fed up with the poor customer experience that most established providers offer. We started The Box Co. based on our fundamental belief of putting the customer experience at the very heart of what we do.
We are particularly proud of the positive feedback we have received from many of our customers. Check us out on Trustpilot to see what some of them are saying.
I am lost, can you help?
Absolutely. Our team is here 7 days a week to assist with any questions or process your booking. Please head to the chat widget on our website or send us an email to hello@theboxco.co.uk.
Storage
Where are the closest storage locations near me?
At The Box Co., we take the hassle out of finding storage locations near you. We have warehouses all over the country. Once you have booked and checked out, we will allocate your order to the nearest warehouse to you. For security and safety reasons, our warehouses are not open to customers, except in special circumstances agreed with us in advance. Our team will optimise the location for you, ensuring convenience and accessibility. Simply provide us with your address or location, and we'll handle the rest. You can trust us to find the closest storage facility that meets your needs, making the entire process easy and stress-free.
What storage unit sizes do you have?
We offer a range of box and storage unit sizes to accommodate various needs. Our available sizes include:
- Small Box: 45 x 30 x 30 cm
- Medium Box: 50 x 40 x 40 cm
- Large Box: 50 x 50 x 50 cm
- XL Box: 70 x 45 x 45 cm
- Suitcase: Hard-shelled suitcase
- 1/2 Container: 25 sqft
- Container: 50 sqft
Please note our weight limit of 20kg for boxes and suitcases. If you use your own boxes, they are classified by their combined length, width and height, as set out in our Size Guide.
Whether you need storage for personal belongings, business inventory, or furniture, we have the right-sized unit to fit your requirements. Our team can assist you in choosing the number of boxes or ideal storage container size to best suit your needs, ensuring a seamless and efficient storage experience.
Do you offer business storage?
Yes, we do. We cater to both residential and business storage needs. We understand that businesses often require additional space to store inventory, equipment, documents, and other valuable items. Our flexible storage solutions are designed to meet the unique requirements of businesses, providing a secure and convenient storage option.
Whether you're a small startup or a large corporation, we have the capacity and expertise to handle your business storage needs efficiently. With a variety of storage unit sizes available, you can store anything from office supplies to excess inventory.
Additionally, our pick-up and return services ensure that you have more time to focus on running your business, while we take care of the storage logistics.
Beyond storage, we support businesses across the UK with full-scale fit-outs, commercial removals, and minor electrical and plumbing works. Where a project involves building works, we do not carry out the building works ourselves, but we can manage the logistics and storage around them.
Every business project is quoted individually, and your quotation sets out the terms for your services.
Do you offer student storage?
Of course. Students often face storage challenges during holidays or when transitioning between accommodations. We offer specialised storage solutions tailored to meet the needs of students.
Whether you're moving out of your dorm or need to store belongings during summer break, our student storage services are here to help. With our convenient pick-up and return options, you won't have to worry about transporting your items to and from storage.
We provide affordable storage options, and our flexible pricing allows you to save more when storing for longer durations. Our secure storage facilities ensure that your items are kept safe until you're ready to have them returned.
If you are not sure how many boxes you need, we recommend ordering a few extra. If we collect more or fewer boxes than you booked, we will adjust your monthly price and confirm the change by email.
I am moving home/renovating and need temporary storage?
Whether you're moving to a new home, renovating your current space, or going through any temporary transition, The Box Co. is here to provide the perfect storage solution for your needs.
Our storage services accommodate short-term storage, ensuring that your belongings are safe and secure during your move or renovation. You can store your items with us for as long as you need, and our flexible pricing options allow you to customise the storage duration to fit your specific timeline.
With our pick-up and return services, we make the storage process as convenient as possible for you. Our team will handle the logistics, so you can focus on the other aspects of your move or renovation. Not to mention we can return to a different address, anywhere in the UK (or internationally, through our separate international shipping service).
Can I access my stuff at any point in time?
While your items are in storage with us, you have the flexibility to get them returned whenever you need. Our warehouses are not open to customers, so you cannot visit or access your items in storage, except in special circumstances agreed with us in advance.
If you would like specific items back, simply let us know, and we'll process your return request. Our team will ensure that your items are ready, and we will return them on your preferred date. Return delivery is charged separately, and the charge is shown before you confirm.
What items are not allowed in your storage?
While we offer a versatile storage service, there are certain items that we are unable to accept for storage due to safety and legal reasons. The following items are not permitted in our storage units:
- Perishable Items: Any perishable goods, including food items that can rot or spoil, are not allowed in storage. These items may attract pests and cause issues in the storage facility.
- Hazardous Materials: Items classified as hazardous, flammable, explosive, or toxic materials are prohibited.
- Illegal Items: Possession, storage, or transportation of illegal items, substances, or materials is strictly prohibited.
- Valuables and Liquids: Jewellery, watches, cash, expensive tech equipment such as phones or high-end cameras, and liquids such as alcohol or perfume.
- Oversized Items: Oversized or excessively heavy items that pose handling challenges may not be accepted. Please note our weight limit of 20kg. Alternatively, we can provide custom quotes for any oversized items.
There are also some items we can store but cannot cover for damage, including glass and crockery (unless packed in our crockery box), electronics and small kitchen appliances, jewellery and antiques. Our Terms set out the full list.
If you have any specific questions about the suitability of certain items for storage, please feel free to reach out to our team. We are here to assist and ensure that your stored items meet our guidelines for a secure and smooth storage experience.
Can I reserve a storage unit with you in advance?
Sure. We encourage our clients to plan ahead and reserve a storage unit in advance to ensure availability and secure the storage space that best suits their needs. Reserving in advance allows you to have peace of mind, especially during busy seasons or when you're preparing for a move or renovation.
To reserve a storage unit, simply manoeuvre the calendar on our booking system, and select the perfect date for you. Whether you need short-term or long-term storage, we'll help you find the perfect unit size and address any questions you may have.
How long can I rent a storage unit with you?
Our storage options are flexible, allowing you to rent a storage unit for as short or as long as you need. Whether you require storage for just a few weeks, several months, or even longer, we've got you covered.
Our storage rental periods are designed to accommodate your specific needs, whether it's for temporary storage during a move or renovation, or for long-term storage.
How do I calculate the right storage container size for my belongings?
Our box measurements provide the accurate dimensions of our permitted box-sizes. Please refer to these as you measure your boxes if you are using your own packaging materials. A ½-container consists of 2 small, medium and large boxes, whilst a full container consists of 5 small, medium and large boxes.
To be on the safe side, we always recommend purchasing a generous amount of packaging. This ensures you have extra boxes or space in case you need it during the packing process. Don't worry if you do not use all of these; your storage pricing will be adjusted down once we store your items.
If you're still uncertain about the right unit size, don't hesitate to contact us. Our storage experts are more than happy to assist you in choosing the perfect unit that suits your specific storage requirements.
Or, why not try our storage calculator?
Can I store valuable or delicate items with you?
Certainly. We understand that some of your belongings may be valuable or delicate, and we take extra care to ensure their safety and protection. Marking a box as 'fragile' always helps. Delicate items can be protected by using proper packaging materials, such as bubble wrap or furniture covers, to prevent any damage during storage.
Every box includes our standard cover, and you can choose enhanced cover at checkout. This is liability cover rather than insurance, and some items, such as glass, electronics, jewellery and antiques, are not covered. For valuable items, we recommend arranging your own insurance as well.
If you have specific valuable or delicate items that require special attention, feel free to discuss your concerns with our team. We're here to offer guidance and assistance in safeguarding your treasured possessions while in storage.
What if I use my own boxes?
No problem. Just make sure your double-walled (this means thick) boxes are the correct sizes. Then print and attach our labels before the pickup. Please note our drivers will not be able to collect oversized or unlabelled boxes. Boxes are charged by size, so a box larger than the size you booked will be charged at the larger size, and we will confirm this by email.
Will you collect and store my furniture?
We will collect (almost) anything. If you have furniture or other bulky items, please select either a container or half a container, depending on how many items you have. Unsure about the size? Please contact us and we are more than happy to help.
Cover
Is my stuff secure?
The security of your belongings is our top priority. We understand the importance of keeping your items safe and protected. Our storage facilities are equipped with security measures, including 24/7 surveillance and strict access controls. Standard cover is included for the contents of each box, and enhanced cover can be added at checkout.
Do you offer cover for my stored items?
Yes. Standard cover is included with every box, and you can choose enhanced cover at checkout. This is liability cover rather than insurance, so for high-value items we recommend arranging your own insurance as well.
Collection/Returns
How do I get my stuff back?
It's simple. Just fill out our return form and we will deliver your stuff back to you. You can even choose to only get certain boxes back.
Please give us at least two working days' notice for any requests. Return delivery is charged separately, and the charge, together with any distance or peak-date charge, is shown before you confirm. Booking early is the best way to avoid peak-date charges. Upgrades, such as doorstep return, can be booked by phone or email.
Please note that all requests are subject to availability especially during busy periods.
How do I pack my items efficiently?
Packing is made easy with The Box Co. We offer packaging materials that we can send directly to you, ensuring you have everything you need to pack your items securely. Our uniform-sized boxes and packing supplies make stacking and organising a breeze.
If you prefer a hands-off approach, we're here to help. Simply reach out to us for a quote, and our team can come and pack your belongings professionally and efficiently. We're always open to enquiries and ready to assist in any way to ensure your storage experience is smooth and stress-free.
Do I need to bring my stuff to the storage location?
No need to worry about transporting your items to the storage location. We offer a convenient pick-up service, making storage effortless for you. Our team will come directly to your location, whether it's your home, office, or dorm, to collect the items you want to store.
Once your items are packed, our team will load them and transport them to our storage facility. If you would like us to pack for you, ask us for a quote.
Do you offer international returns?
Yes. International shipping is a separate service, which can be added to your storage with us. If you need your belongings returned to an address outside of the UK, simply contact our team, and we will guide you through the procedure.
Our international shipping partner carries your shipment abroad and delivers it at the destination. Each international shipment is quoted individually, depending on the destination, and the size and nature of your items.
Payment
Are there any discounts or promotions for your storage?
We offer various discounts and promotions at The Box Co. to ensure our clients get the best value for their storage needs. Our discounts are based on the length of your storage period, meaning the longer you store with us, the more you save. Collection is also free* on qualifying orders.
Additionally, keep an eye on our website and promotional emails for any special offers or limited-time deals. We regularly run promotions that can provide you with additional savings on your storage costs.
Whether you're a student, a business, or an individual in need of storage solutions, our goal is to make storage affordable and accessible for everyone. Feel free to reach out to our team to enquire about current promotions and discounts tailored to you.
*Qualifying orders are shown on the booking page. Return delivery is charged separately.
Do I have to pay a deposit?
No, we do not require any upfront deposit. The only payment due upfront is for your first month of storage, your collection and any packaging materials. We believe in providing a transparent and straightforward storage experience for our clients. You'll only be charged for the storage service you use, and there is no deposit. Return delivery is charged separately and is shown in your booking summary.
With our flexible pricing and payment options, you can enjoy the convenience of paying for your storage on a monthly basis without the burden of a deposit.
Are there any hidden fees with your service?
No. Your booking summary shows your monthly storage charge, any one-off charges for collection and packaging materials, and our current return delivery charge for your service, all before you pay.
Return delivery is charged at our rate at the time you book your return, and is confirmed to you then. Any charge that depends on your return, such as a distance charge for longer-distance returns or a peak-date charge, is shown before you confirm your return.
Removals
Do you offer removals?
Yes, we do offer removal services at The Box Co. Simply email us at hello@theboxco.co.uk with as much information as possible, and we will assist you from there.
In many cases, we can arrange removal services within a few days of your enquiry, subject to availability. If you have a confirmed moving date or know when you'll need our removal services, it's best to reach out to us as soon as possible. This will allow us to discuss your specific requirements and provide you with a tailored quote based on the services you require.
Even if you find yourself needing removal services on short notice, don't hesitate to contact us. We'll do our utmost to assist you and find a suitable solution to ensure your move goes smoothly and stress-free.
Can you help with packing and unpacking?
Our professional team can assist you with packing and unpacking as part of the removal/return process, ensuring your belongings are handled with care throughout.
If you require our packing and unpacking services, please reach out to our team. We'll provide you with a personalised quote based on the scope of work and make your move a smooth and hassle-free experience.
How do I prepare for a removal or home move?
There are only a few steps we need you to follow for the collection of your boxes. With packaging, we recommend using high-quality packing materials; The Box Co. can provide boxes for you.
It always helps if you include bubblewrap or another form of protective cover too. Please make sure your boxes are securely packed, and are ready by the designated pick-up spot for collection.
