We collect from your door and return your belongings when you ask, so the choices you make while taping up boxes at home are the ones that count later. This guide covers box sizes, weights, fragile items, furniture, paperwork and a labelling habit that takes seconds per box.

Why How You Pack Affects What You Can Get Back Later

Packing for storage with a collection and delivery service means packing at home, into boxes that get collected, stored and returned whole. You never go anywhere yourself. Whatever we collect as one thing, a box, a chair, a bed, is what comes back when you ask for it.

We don’t open boxes to take one thing out. That would mean our team going through other people’s belongings to find yours. So when you need something, you request that box back and it arrives exactly as you sealed it. Anything that isn’t in a box, furniture and beds included, is individual by nature and comes back on its own.

So what goes in with what matters. Put a winter coat in with the Christmas decorations and the spare curtains, and getting that coat in October means having the whole box back. Put it in with the rest of your winter clothes and you get exactly what you wanted.

Domestic customers now account for 76% of UK self storage use, according to the Self Storage Association UK’s 2026 annual industry report, and a lack of room at home is the most common reason people store. If you want the wider picture on how collection and delivery works first, our storage services page covers it.

Pack in Smaller, Themed Boxes, Not a Few Big Ones

The best way to pack for storage is in several smaller boxes grouped by theme, rather than a few large mixed ones. Keep books with books, winter clothes with winter clothes, kitchen things with kitchen things. Then you can request one themed box back without everything unrelated coming with it.

Here’s what that looks like in practice:

• Seasonal things. Skis in one box, Christmas decorations in another. The Christmas box comes back in early December and goes away again in January, and nothing else has to move.
  
• A house move, by room. Kitchen, bathroom, spare room. If you land in temporary accommodation and need your kitchen things sooner than the rest, that’s one box back rather than a full delivery.
  
• A house clearance or sorting an estate. Photographs and paperwork in one box, china and glassware in another, ornaments in a third. Families often work through this over months, and category boxes let them go at their own pace.

Books and record collections show the idea nicely. Split across small, clearly labelled boxes, a collection stays usable, because you can have one box back whenever you want it. There’s more on our book and collection storage page, and our items we store page lists the other categories.

Similar sized boxes also stack more neatly and carry weight better than a jumble of odd shapes, and they’re easier to work around while you pack. Space is tight in most London homes, and the average privately rented home in England has 76 square metres of usable floor space, with 17% under 50 square metres, according to the English Housing Survey 2024 to 2025.

Choosing the Right Size and Type of Box

Match the box to what’s going in it. Heavy, dense things like books, records, crockery and tools belong in a medium box, because a large one filled with them gets too heavy to lift safely. Bulky but light things like bedding, cushions and coats are what large boxes are for. Starting from scratch? The mover kit bundles boxes, tape and protection together, and the full range sits in our box shop.

Cardboard or plastic? For most household belongings, sturdy cardboard is the sensible default. It’s lighter to carry, easier to write on directly and stacks well once taped. Sealed plastic boxes earn their place for damp sensitive things like photographs, documents and textiles going away for a long time. Both work, so don’t agonise. What counts more is that everything goes in completely dry.

How heavy is too heavy? Aim for roughly 15 to 18kg per packed box. The HSE’s manual handling guidance gives guideline figures of 25kg for men and 16kg for women for a load held close to the body in good conditions. Those aren’t legal limits, and they drop sharply once you’re bending, twisting or carrying awkwardly. Handling, lifting or carrying caused 17% of all non-fatal workplace injuries in Great Britain in 2024/25. Our team does the lifting on the day, but you’re the one filling the boxes first.

Packing Fragile and Electrical Items Safely

Fragile items need three things: individual wrapping, a cushioned base and no empty space. Wrap each one on its own in bubble wrap or packing paper so nothing touches anything else, line the bottom of the box, then fill every gap with packing peanuts or scrunched paper. If you can hear things move when you tilt the box, it isn’t full enough. Pack plates and glasses on their edge rather than flat, since a plate lying flat carries the weight of everything above it.

For electronics, use the original box if you still have it. It was built to that exact shape, and nothing you improvise will fit better. Take removable batteries out of remotes and cameras, since a battery left in place for months can leak. Large screens deserve a box of their own, and a 55 inch TV box is a lot safer than a duvet and good intentions.

Then mark the outside. Fragile warning tape tells whoever’s carrying the box what’s inside without anyone opening it, which matters when it’s our team lifting it rather than you.

Packing Furniture, Clothes and Bulky Items

Take apart anything that comes apart easily. Table legs, bed frames, headboards and flat pack shelving all travel better in pieces and take up far less space. Bag the screws and fittings, label the bag, then tape it to the underside of the item or keep all your hardware bags in one small labelled box. A bolt that goes missing in August is a real problem in November.

Clothes do best hanging where they can. Suits, coats and dresses go straight from the wardrobe into a wardrobe box with a hanging rail, which keeps them on their hangers and off the floor. Avoid sealing clothes into bin bags. Plastic traps moisture against fabric, and moisture over a few months means mildew and yellowing.

Mattresses should be clean and completely dry before covering, then protected with a proper mattress cover rather than a plastic sheet that can’t breathe. Guidance is split on whether a mattress is better stored flat or on its side, though flat is the more common recommendation, on the grounds that it protects the internal structure.

Drawers are useful space. Anything inside a chest of drawers comes back with it, so fill them with soft, light things you won’t need in the meantime.

Packing Documents and Paperwork

Paperwork is easy to underestimate and miserable to untangle later. Keep it together in a dedicated lidded box such as an archive box with a lid, rather than spread through general boxes.

Stand documents upright in folders rather than lying flat and loose. Upright files stay in order, are quicker to look through and don’t get crushed under their own weight. Keep categories together: warranties and manuals in one place, financial paperwork in another, property documents in a third.

If the box isn’t full, put a spacer on top so nothing slides and bends in transit. Bubble wrap works well. Avoid newspaper against paperwork, as the print can transfer.

Labelling and Keeping Track of What’s in Each Box

This is the bit most people skip and later regret, and it doesn’t need a spreadsheet or an app. 

Here’s a system that takes seconds:

1. Give every box a number and a short, specific name. “12: Winter clothes” beats “Bedroom” every time. Vague room labels stop being useful within a week.
   
2. Photograph the contents before you seal it. One phone photo of the open box, with the number visible on a label or written on the flap. Keep them in one album on your phone.
   
3. Write the number on at least two sides and the top, then seal properly with strong parcel tape so the box holds its shape.

Nobody is going to open box 12 so you can have a look inside, so the label and the photo are what tell you which box to request back. We complete an inventory when your belongings come in to us as well, so nothing gets lost track of.

Working Out How Many Boxes You’ll Need

Most people underestimate this. Walk each room, count what’s actually leaving it, and think in themes rather than in volume.

Once you’ve got a rough idea, our storage space calculator turns a list of items into an estimate of the space you’ll need, and our instant quote takes it from there.

Pack in themes, keep boxes to a weight you can lift, label them clearly. Do that, take the photos, and your belongings never really feel like they’ve disappeared. They’re just somewhere else for a while, ready whenever you want them back.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Size Boxes Should I Use for Storage?

Use similar sized boxes where you can, matched to what’s going in them. Small and medium boxes suit heavy, dense items like books, records and crockery. Large boxes suit bulky but light ones like bedding, cushions and coats. A matching set stacks more safely.

Cardboard or Plastic Boxes for Storage?

Cardboard is the better default for most household belongings. It’s lighter, easier to label directly and stacks well once taped. Sealed plastic boxes are worth it for damp sensitive contents like photographs, documents and textiles. Either works, as long as everything is completely dry and the packed box stays within a sensible weight.

How Heavy Should a Packed Storage Box Be?

Keep a packed box to around 15 to 18kg, a weight one person can comfortably lift alone. The HSE’s manual handling guidance gives guideline figures of 25kg for men and 16kg for women for a load held close to the body in good conditions. Those aren’t legal limits, and they fall considerably once you’re bending, twisting or carrying up stairs.

What Shouldn’t Go in a Storage Box?

Nothing perishable, nothing damp and nothing flammable or hazardous. Food spoils and attracts pests. Damp items sealed in a box with no airflow will grow mould. Flammable liquids, aerosols, paint and gas canisters are a fire risk. If you’re unsure, give us a call on 0208 166 1665.

How Should I Label Boxes for Storage, and Does It Actually Matter?

It matters, and it’s far simpler than people expect. You don’t need a spreadsheet or an app. Number each box, give it a short specific name, and take one phone photo of the contents before you seal it. Since your belongings come back box by box, a clear label plus a photo is what tells you exactly which box to request back.

The post How to Pack for Storage: A Practical Packing Guide appeared first on Jam Storage.

What most people haven’t sorted before it happens is storage. Not because they forgot. Because they assumed the move would be straightforward.

The gap nobody plans for

There’s almost always a gap. A few days between handing over the keys to your old place and getting the keys to your new one. Sometimes longer.

Chains involve multiple buyers and sellers, solicitors on both sides, and completion day timing that depends on everyone moving in the right order on the right day. Even when everything is agreed, it can still unravel. Mid-chain moves don’t complete until the funds have passed through every link, which can mean waiting until mid-afternoon for your keys while the removal van has been outside since nine.

Having somewhere for your belongings to go takes the pressure off. You’re not stuck sleeping on an air mattress waiting for contracts to exchange. You don’t have to ask a vendor who’s already moved on to give you another two weeks. Storage won’t fix a broken chain, but it makes the gap a lot easier to sit in.

Why London makes it harder

Moving in London isn’t the same as moving somewhere with a bit more space. Properties are smaller, people often downsize, and there’s no garage or garden shed to use as a temporary overflow.

There’s also the cost reality. The price difference between a two-bedroom and a three-bedroom in London is steep. Putting seasonal gear, spare furniture, or a few boxes you’re keeping but can’t fit right now into storage often works out cheaper than paying for the extra room permanently.

Sometimes the need comes from something you didn’t see coming. A bereavement can leave a family needing time to go through a home. A relationship breakdown can mean needing somewhere safe for your belongings while things are sorted out. A flood or fire can force the issue before you’ve had time to think. These situations don’t leave much room to plan. If you’re in one, getting something in place is what matters.

What most people get wrong about storage

Most people picture the same thing: hire a van, load it yourself, drive to a warehouse, find the right unit, unload it all. Then repeat in reverse when you want anything back. It’s a lot of work at exactly the point in your life when you have the least energy for it.

JamStorage doesn’t work like that.

We collect your belongings from your door. Our team comes to you, takes care of the heavy lifting, and keeps your things secure. When you want them back, we bring them to you. No van to hire, no loading ramp, no parking bay to sort.

If you’ve only used traditional self-storage before, it will feel different. That’s the point.

You don’t have to move everything at once

Storage doesn’t have to be all or nothing.

If you’re mid-renovation and need the dining table out of the way while the floor goes down, you can store just that. If you’ve moved into your new place but the spare room isn’t sorted yet, a single box or piece of furniture can come back to you without a full retrieval.

You can ask for specific items back, one box, one chair, without collecting everything else. That’s useful for phased moves, room-by-room renovations, or just waiting for the right moment. It also means you can build storage into your move bit by bit rather than having everything planned from day one.

When to think about storage during a move

Most people think about it too late. By the time it’s obvious they need storage, they’re already under pressure.

If there’s any chance of a gap between your old place and your new one, getting a quote before exchange is worth doing. You might not end up using it. A booking you cancel is a lot less stressful than scrambling on completion day.

Our instant quote calculator takes a few minutes and there’s no obligation. If you’re unsure how much space you need, the storage space calculator can help you work that out first.

A practical checklist before your move

A few things worth doing before move day:

• Go through your belongings before you start packing. Knowing what’s going into storage versus what’s coming with you makes for a more accurate quote.
• Get a quote early, even if you’re not certain you’ll need storage. Having a number means you’re not deciding under pressure.
• Mention anything fragile or unusually large when you book. It helps the team prepare.
• Have a rough idea of your timeline. Even if it shifts, knowing when you might want things back is useful.
• Don’t leave it to completion day. You’ll have enough on your plate.

When you’re ready, the easiest next step is a quote. Get started at JamStorage and get an instant quote.

The post Moving house in London? Here’s what nobody tells you about storage appeared first on Jam Storage.

At JamStorage, we’re always looking for ways to improve the service, security, and professionalism we provide to our customers across London and the Home Counties. That is why we are proud to announce that JamStorage has joined the Self-Storage Association UK.

Joining the SSA represents another crucial step in our commitment to delivering trusted, modern, and customer-focused storage solutions.

What Is the Self-Storage Association UK?

The Self Storage Association UK (SSA) is the leading trade organisation representing the self-storage industry across the United Kingdom and has supporting associations across Europe. The SSA has worked to promote professionalism, ethical business practices, industry education, legal compliance, and innovation within the storage sector. The SSA helps set the standard for what customers should expect from a professional storage provider.

Why Joining the Self-Storage Association UK Matters

For us, becoming a member is more than simply adding another logo to our website. It reflects our long-term commitment to continuous improvement and industry best practices.

The key benefits of SSA membership – both for JamStorage and for our customers.

Staying Ahead of Industry Standards

The storage industry continues to evolve rapidly, especially with changing customer expectations around convenience, flexibility, and security.

As an SSA member, JamStorage gains access to the latest industry research, operational guidance, and educational resources.

This helps us continue refining our service model, from secure inventory management to efficient collection and return logistics.

Improved Customer Confidence

Choosing a storage company often comes down to trust. Customers want reassurance that their belongings are being handled professionally, securely, and responsibly. Membership with the SSA demonstrates that JamStorage aligns itself with recognised industry standards and ethical business practices. For customers, that means added peace of mind when storing with us.

Access to Industry Education & Training

The SSA provides extensive education and training opportunities for storage professionals, including operational guidance, legal updates, and best-practice resources.

This allows our team to stay informed and continuously improve the customer experience we deliver every day across London and the Home Counties

Stronger Focus on Compliance & Security

Security and compliance are critical in the storage industry. SSA members receive access to legal resources, operational guidance, and industry updates designed to help operators maintain exacting standards. At JamStorage, this supports our ongoing investment in secure storage facilities, professional handling procedures, and transparent customer policies.

Networking With Industry Leaders

Being part of the SSA gives JamStorage the opportunity to connect with some of the most respected operators and innovators in the storage industry. By sharing knowledge and learning from industry leaders, we can continue improving the way storage works for modern customers.

Continuing to Modernise Storage and Valet storage

At JamStorage, we have always believed storage should be simple, flexible, and stress-free.

Unlike traditional self-storage, we collect, store, and return your belongings, removing the need for van hire, heavy lifting, or repeated trips to a storage unit. Joining the SSA reinforces our mission to combine convenience with professionalism and trusted industry standards whilst also allowing our customer to access Self Storage units.

Looking Ahead

As JamStorage continues to grow, our focus remains the same, delivering exceptional customer service, providing secure and flexible storage solutions and continuing to improve through innovation and industry collaboration.

Becoming part of the Self-Storage Association UK is another exciting milestone on that journey.

The post JamStorage Joins the Self-Storage Association UK (SSA) appeared first on Jam Storage.

This isn’t a rebrand for the sake of it. It reflects how the business has evolved, what our customers now use us for most, and what we do best.

JamStorage was born out of pure necessity

When Covid hit in 2020, London changed overnight. Thousands of people packed up their lives, leaving rental homes, returning to family houses across the UK and Europe, and preparing to work remotely for far longer than expected.

Our phones didn’t stop ringing.

At the time, most removal companies already had large storage facilities and recurring storage income. We didn’t. And it quickly became clear that storage wasn’t an add-on anymore, it was survival. Whilst London stopped, we kept moving.

So we pivoted. Fast.

While much of the removals industry slowed or shut down, we launched something new: self-storage, delivered to your door. No units. No lift access. No queues. Just collection, storage, and return, all handled for you.

As the rest of the business paused, JamVans didn’t.

Justin and Matt were on the road seven days a week, day and night, collecting and securing people’s belongings while the city stood still.

That moment changed everything.

What began as a response to crisis became a new way of thinking about storage; concierge, smart, and completely hands-off. We took the self out of self-storage, so customers never had to visit a unit again.

So, what’s changing?

Over time, JamVans evolved from a removals-led business into something more specialised. While we still help people move, the majority of customers now come to us for storage collection and delivery.

Put simply, we’ve become a storage company first.

The name JamStorage reflects the service we’re known for today: collecting your items, storing them securely, and delivering them back when you need them.

Why JamStorage?

We wanted a name that clearly explains what we do.

JamStorage represents our door-to-door service, flexible collection and return, and focus on convenience, simplicity, and care. Storage is no longer something we also offer it’s what we specialise in.

The service hasn’t changed. The name now fits the experience.

What’s staying the same?

A lot, actually.

It’s the same team, the same high standards, and the same careful handling of your belongings. We’re still committed to providing a friendly, reliable service and making storage as stress-free as possible.

If you’ve used JamVans storage before, you’ve already experienced JamStorage, just under a name that finally matches what we do.

Looking ahead

This change allows us to focus even more on improving our storage service and continuing to build a business designed entirely around convenience.

We’re excited about what’s next and grateful to everyone who’s been part of the journey so far.

Welcome to JamStorage.

Same people. Same care.
Just a name that finally says what we do.

The post Big news: JamVans is changing its name to JamStorage. appeared first on Jam Storage.

What is JamStorage Storage with Collection Service?

JamStorage’ storage service is designed to take the hassle out of the storage process. Unlike conventional self-storage companies, which require you to transport your items to a physical storage unit yourself, JamStorage offers a collection service. This means that they come to your home, pick up your items, and transport them to a secure storage facility—saving you time, energy, and stress.

Why Choose JamStorage Over Traditional Self Storage in London?

1. Convenience at Your Doorstep

One of the biggest drawbacks of traditional self-storage is the need to transport your items to the storage facility. Whether you’re juggling work, family, or other commitments, this can be time-consuming and challenging. With JamStorage, this step is taken care of. You don’t need to worry about renting a van, loading your belongings, or driving across town to drop them off. Their professional team comes directly to your location, picks up everything you need stored, and safely transports it to their secure storage facility. It’s self-storage in London made effortless.

2. Flexible Storage Solutions for Every Need

JamStorage understands that everyone’s storage needs are different. That’s why they offer flexible storage options to fit your requirements. Whether you’re storing a few boxes, furniture, or entire household contents, you can choose the right-sized storage for you. From small storage containers to larger units, you have control over how much space you need, making it easier to manage your costs.

3. A Smarter, More Affordable Solution

If you’re looking for storage in London, you’ll likely know that many traditional self-storage companies charge you by the square foot of space used. Over time, this can add up quickly. JamStorage eliminates this issue by offering transparent pricing for their collection and storage services. Instead of paying for unused space, you’re charged based on the actual volume of your belongings, ensuring you get a fair and cost-effective deal.

4. Secure, Climate-Controlled Storage Facilities

When it comes to storing your valuable items, security is essential. JamStorage provides high-quality storage facilities that are both secure and climate-controlled, ensuring that your items are kept safe and in optimal conditions. From CCTV surveillance to state-of-the-art security measures, you can rest assured that your belongings are in good hands.

5. Easy Access to Your Stored Items

With JamStorage’ service, accessing your stored items is a breeze. Instead of driving to a self-storage facility and worrying about when you’ll be able to get to it, you can request a delivery of your items back to your location whenever you need them. This level of flexibility makes it easier to store and retrieve belongings without having to plan ahead for a lengthy trip.

6. No Hidden Fees

Traditional self-storage facilities often have hidden fees, such as security deposits, insurance costs, and transportation fees. With JamStorage, there are no hidden costs. Their pricing is simple and transparent, so you know exactly what you’re paying for and can budget accordingly.

JamStorage vs Traditional Self-Storage: A Comparison

Is JamStorage the Best Self Storage Option for You?

If you’re looking for a self-storage solution in London that is affordable, convenient, and secure, JamStorage’ collection service is an excellent alternative to traditional self-storage units. It eliminates the hassle of driving to a facility and offers a more flexible, tailored experience that works with your schedule and storage needs. With a focus on customer satisfaction, security, and transparency, JamStorage is quickly becoming a preferred choice for those who want to avoid the usual drawbacks of traditional self-storage services.

Why JamStorage is the Future of Storage in London

JamStorage is changing the way people think about storage in London. Their cutting-edge service offers a more convenient, accessible, and budget-friendly alternative to traditional self-storage options. Whether you’re moving, decluttering, or need temporary storage for your business, JamStorage’ collection service is the future of self-storage—making it easier and more affordable than ever before.

Are you ready to simplify your storage experience? Contact JamStorage today to learn more about how their collection and storage service can help you save time and money while keeping your belongings safe and secure.

The post The smarter way to store appeared first on Jam Storage.

Watch the TV Advert

What is the advert about?

WE COLLECT. WE STORE. WE DELIVER. The advert is designed to promote our Self Store To Your door service.

Our hassle free storage where we collect and deliver your items, saving our clients a lot of time, effort and money. Arrange the collection of items on the date of your choice, our professional movers will arrive, catalogue your items and deliver everything to one of our secure storage facilities. Saving you time, money and providing a better service than self-storage companies.

How it works

A low cost and easy alternative to traditional self storage

Just some of the benefits:

Don’t lift a finger 

Our team of professional movers will load your items and properly protect them (unlike conventional self storage companies). We can even pack your items too. Saving you time and money on van hires.

Low monthly price

Much cheaper than self-storage and we have a straightforward pricing structure too without the hidden costs.

Inventory of your items

You will know what you have in storage at any time. If you want all or some of your items back, we can deliver them to you.

Storage on-demand

Using our Self Store To Your Door service really is that simple. JamStorage offer flexible storage, allowing you to add and remove items at your leisure. Another great benefit is that you only pay for the space you need if you decrease or increase the number of stored items, the space increases and decrease too. We will provide you with a full inventory of the items that you have in storage at any given time.

As seen on TV

Coming to a screen near you, keep your eyes peeled and look out for us!

The post Self Store To Your Door – TV Advert appeared first on Jam Storage.

Home removals from London to the Home Counties

JamStorage are regularly moving people out of London. We are the ideal London removals company for your move with depots in both London and Hertfordshire. In many ways London behaves very differently to the rest of the country and this is no different when it comes to moving home. We have the experience of moving being in and around the city as well as local commuter towns and the different obstacles that can be thrown up. Whether it be obtaining parking suspensions in London or the tight lanes in the countryside, we have been there, done that and got the t-shirt.

We have many offerings at JamStorage to ensure that we provide a quality, well managed removals service that is cost effective. We will determine how many items you require moving and suggest a removals service to suit your needs.

Our Man & Van service is ideal for smaller moves in a London as well as to commuter towns. This enables our clients to manage their budget. We have options from a one man and van London removals service to a 3 man, man and van service. Tell us about your move and our move coordinators will suggest which option may be best suited to your move.

For larger moves we would offer our removals service. We will provide a fixed rate quote by determining the exact size and requirements of your move.  We will complete a virtual survey of your property to ensure that we have everything covered. This is ideal for those who are buying and selling a property and need to move everything in one go. Our range of removal vehicles enables JamStorage to offer bespoke move plans at competitive prices.  Wherever in the country you are moving to, JamStorage will move you.

Moving to a commuter town, what you need to know

There are literally hundreds of commuter towns surrounding London that JamStorage are often seen moving our clients to. There is a lot to think about when choosing your new location including schools, house prices and transport links to London to name a few.

Research, research, research. You can never do enough research when relocating to a commuter town.  There is nothing wrong with trying before you buy, you may even find that a particular area does not work for you and your family. We have compiled a list of some of the things to thing about when relocating to a London commuter town:

• Take a trip to different towns and get a genuine feel for the area. Go at different times of the week/day.
• Check out the local school Ofsted reports.
• Speak to local estate agents, this can prove quite fruitful if you find the right agent willing to help with survey reports.
• Try the commute into London, make sure it is realistic and not too time consuming.
• Take the family with you to get everybody on board with making the discion of where to move to.

Many of the removals from London involve moving people to rental properties. This allows our clients can get a feel for the area without making a huge financial commitment of purchasing a new home. Speak with the local estate agents in the commuter towns, they will be able to assist you in finding the right property. Estate agents may also be able to help with arranging inspections and telling you a little bit about the town.

JamStorage – London’s favourite removals company

JamStorage has built a reputation for being clear and transparent about the removal services we offer and ensuring we keep up to our client’s high expectations. A true success story we are a fast growing company that has won multiple awards in recent years.

With depots in London and Berkhamsted JamStorage is prepared for any move across London and surrounding areas. This makes us an ideal London removals company for moving to a commuter town. Our business is built on our amazing reputation with client recommendation being our biggest source of new enquiries.

If you are looking to move out of the city to a quiet pace of life, contact us today.

The post Looking for a London removals company to move you out of London? appeared first on Jam Storage.

Here are some of our favourite packing challenges – once you know the tips you’ll be packing like a pro! But remember if in doubt, call in a professional removals company (like us!) – it’s what removal companies do day in, day out. However some removals companies are more respectful and careful with your belongings than others, so make sure you check out the reviews and use a member of BAR (British Association of Removers) to ensure they do the job properly.

First, have ready your essential packing items:

• Packing tape
• Bubble wrap
• Boxes
• Labels
• Basic tools (screwdriver, pliers, scissors etc)
• Towels
• Blankets
• Packing peanuts
• Zip up bags
• Felt-tip pen

Take photos of any items you need to dismantle or take apart before you start packing. This will give you a point of reference when it’s time to put them back together. We’d also recommend taking a photo of each room before packing so that when you reach your new home you have a visual list of your items.

1. Packing your home gym equipment

Your home gym equipment can be really difficult to move as it’s heavy, awkwardly shaped and also will have delicate controls and mechanisms. Here’s some tips to make the job more manageable.

Clean all your equipment with a sanitiser or anti-bacterial solution – they can accumulate a lot of germs that you don’t need to take to your new home.

Stationary Bike:

Unplug and store all the cords together in a labelled bag (it’s a good idea to attach this to the bike so you don’t lose them). If you can, remove the handlebars and pedals to make it a lighter load. Wrap the bike in a thick blanket. With assistance load the bike into the removal van and strap it securely. A professional removal company will often use skates to move heavy bulky items.

Treadmill:

Set the incline to zero, fold up the walking deck and either strap into place, or use the inbuilt locking mechanism. Completely wrap the treadmill in blankets and get assistance to move it.

Multi-gym:

It’s important when moving a multi-gym to take lots of photos, notes and diagrams as you take it apart, so you remember how to put it all back together again – unless you’ve been prudent enough to keep the instruction manual of course!

To make moving the multi-gym possible you need to remove as much of the detachable items as possible including the weights, accessories and the seat. Then unbolt the arms and stands into individual pieces. Wrap the weights in bubble wrap or layers of paper, then put into very strong boxes. Use smaller boxes (less weight!) and fill extra space with blankets. Don’t overload anything or it will be impossible to move it.

2. Moving floor lamps

Floor lamps are often delicate, tall and unstable. Remove the light bulbs, wrap and box separately. If they are special bulbs label the box so you know where they belong.

If your lamp seems pretty robust, remove any lamp shades, wrap the stand in blankets and secure carefully in the removal truck. Lampshades can be put in boxes and filled with packing peanuts to stop them moving. Take extra care to keep them away from dirt as lamp shades can be very hard to clean.

If your lampstand is fragile, then you will need a box tall enough to house it (you can customise two or three boxes). Wrap with blankets, insert into the packing box and fill the box with packing peanuts to hold the lampstand in place.

3. Packing a chandelier

You don’t have to leave behind your cherished chandeliers if you pack them up properly. This job requires two people, a thick towel or blanket, packing paper or tissue paper, foam padding and packing peanuts, a step ladder, screwdriver and strong boxes.

Make sure you turn off the electricity before you get going. Get your assistant to take the weight of the chandelier, then disconnect the light and remove the ceiling wires.

Placing the chandelier gently onto the towel or blanket you can unscrew the light bulbs, wrap them in paper and store them in a separate box. Using your screwdriver disassemble any removable pieces – crystals, arms, candle cups putting small items in zip lock bags and either taking photos or notes so you can remember how to reattach them. If you don’t remove the crystals, wrap each piece individually in paper to avoid them scratching or chipping each other.

Add padding to the bottom of your boxes or thick towels and blankets and lay the chandelier carefully inside the box. Fill the space with packing peanuts and make sure the chandelier won’t move in the box. Top the box with another blanket or packing foam before sealing and labelling with EXTREMELY FRAGILE – CHANDELIER so everyone knows to take care with it.

Professional removal companies can provide a chandelier moving crate if you advise them in advance. Ensure you inform your removal company personally about the chandelier, and ask them to inform the storage company (if you’re using one) so that everyone knows to take extra care.

4. Packing sharp knives

How can you pack sharp knives and ensure no one or no things get injured or damaged in the packing and unpacking process?

Carefully wrap each knife individually in bubble wrap, or several layers of paper. Tuck the bubble wrap or paper at the ends of the knife in and secure with packing tape. Place the knives in a shoebox or similar small box before placing into larger boxes. Label the box on at least 2 sides – WARNING – SHARP KNIVES and add the destination room to the label.

5. Packing and moving a lawnmower

You may not have packed up your lawnmower since you first brought it home from the shop, but if you take the necessary steps it can be done safely and successfully.

Empty the grass and wipe down the mower and blades (carefully!). Remove the blades, wrap and pack them separately (labelling the box to make it easy to reunite them).

If you have a fuel powered lawnmower empty the fuel and oil into suitable containers. Usually your removal company will not be able to move these for you due to insurance cover, so you need to transport them separately.

Disconnect the spark plug – this may seem unnecessary, but a mower can start accidentally from build up fumes. Then you can roll your mower to the removal truck, strap securely in place ready for transportation.

If you have a ride-on lawnmower, the best way to transport it to the new property is to use a trailer with a ramp.

6. Packing and moving a patio heater

To move a patio heater you first need to remove the gas bottle. Most removal companies won’t be able to transport them for you due to insurance and health and safety.

Then remove the heat reflecting hood. Keep all your nuts and bolts together in a zip lock bag, clearly labelled and tape it onto another part of the heater. Take photos or notes if necessary so you can remember how it all goes back together.

Take apart as much of the heater as possible to reduce size and weight. Then wrap in packing blankets to protect from scratches and put all the parts in a box if possible.

7. Packing and moving an oven

Often the oven is left behind for the new owners as part of the fixtures and fittings, but if you love your oven, you’re going to want to take it with you. If you have a gas oven you will need a Gas Safe registered plumber to disconnect it for you. Once all disconnected or unplugged, remove all the detachable parts like burner pans and grates so they don’t get dropped or damaged, or scratch the surface. Wrap and box these, then label so they don’t get misplaced.

Slide a dolly (removal trolley) under the oven and tip the oven. Get someone to assist by holding the oven and preventing it from scratching the floor. If you don’t have a dolly and have hard floors you can use a piece of upside down carpet under the oven to drag it on and avoid scratching the floors.

At JamStorage we specialise in home removals whether it’s domestically in the UK or internationally. We move people every single day whether they have a few items or a truck-load of belongings! If you’re moving then get in touch with us today to see how we can help.

The post How to pack 7 of the most awkward-shaped items for your house move appeared first on Jam Storage.

Have you explored the different areas of Norway?

Before jumping straight in to moving to Norway, take some time to explore the country and its cities, towns and rural areas. Some of the cities, such as Oslo, are cosmopolitan environments, with a high percentage of English speakers, and everything you would expect from a modern city. However, the countryside can be a very beautiful wilderness, isolated and often difficult to travel around due to the inclement weather.

Are you ready for the climate?

Norway is a land of extremes, from the hours of sunlight, to the variation in temperature; the weather conditions vary between inland and coastal areas, as well as north and south. Inland the winter temperature can drop to -30° C, but in the summer might reach 28°C. Along the coast the weather is less extreme, but frequently windy and rainy. In the summer darkness hardly falls (blackout blinds are essential!), and in the winter the shortest day is only about 5 hours of daylight (or no daylight in the extreme north), which can lead to depression.

Are you ready for the high cost of living?

Once you are earning a Norwegian salary in a decent job then the cost of living isn’t so much of a problem, but until then costs compared to the UK are considerably higher. If you are renting property you may be expected to pay 3 month’s rent in advance.

Can you speak Norwegian?

Most of the population of Norway understand English to a good level, however you can not rely on that and if you want to settle into the country it is very advisable to learn the language before you move.

How long are you planning to stay?

Depending on your length of stay there are different requirements. Up to 3 months no visa is required if you are a UK or EU citizen. If you are staying longer than 3 months then you need to complete a registration through the UDI application portal.

To work in Norway you will need a valid passport and an employment certificate completed by your employer, called an ansettelsesbevis.

To study in Norway you need your valid passport, the admission confirmation from an approved educational institution, a personal declaration stating that you can financially support yourself, and either your EHIC (European Health Insurance Card) or proof of private health insurance that covers you in Norway.

Can you bring your personal possessions into Norway?

Norway is not a member of the European Union, so different regulations apply when moving to Norway from the UK. All importing has to go through the Norwegian Customs Regulations. You can import your household possession into Norway is you have owned them for at least 12 months before your move date. You will be required to create a detailed inventory in both English and Norwegian and to have completed a copy of the Norwegian customs declaration form (RG-124). These two items need to be accompanied by a copy of your passport.

Are you taking pets?

Pet passports are valid in Norway, but there are additional permits and guidance is available here. Dogs, cats and ferrets must be ID marked and have a valid anti-rabies vaccination.

It is illegal to import most exotic animals to Norway, but there are some exceptions that are listed on the website above. You will need an import permit if you wish to take caged birds, rabbits or small rodents.

Can you bring your car to Norway?

Importing of motor vehicles can be an expensive process as an import duty and tax of approximately 105% of the vehicle’s value is levied. You must have owned the car for 12 months previously and not sell it for a further 24 months.

At JamStorage we specialise in home removals whether it’s domestically in the UK or internationally. We move people every single day whether they have a few items or a truck-load of belongings! If you’re moving from the UK to Norway then get in touch with us today to see how we can help manage your European removal.

The post Checklist For Moving From the UK to Norway appeared first on Jam Storage.

There are wonderful cities around the world, all brimming with possibilities and potential. And it’s not just the internationally famous cities like London, Paris and New York that are prime destinations, each city in each country will have its own character and benefits (and disadvantages).

Just as there are hundreds of cities, there are countless reasons why you might consider moving to a new city, sometimes it’s a pipe-dream, or will come down to how adventurous or nomadic you are.

So how do you know that you’re ready to make the big move? Here are some questions you might want to ask yourself to see if moving to a new city is right for you. Of course, each question leads to many more questions, but the more you examine your motives and the possibilities, the more prepared you’ll be and the more likely your move to a new city will be a success.

1. Why do you want to move to this particular city?

This is a pretty big question. Be honest with yourself, what is really drawing you to try something else? Have you had a weekend in New York and loved every moment? Imagine realistically what living in your new city might be like – real life generally means that you can’t party all the time! And the city the tourist experiences can be very different to what someone living there will see.

But if you can penetrate the tourist gloss and still love what you see, then this could be a really great possibility.

Moving to a new city can be much easier if there is a special person waiting for you. But make the move for you, not for them. Relationships don’t always last and you don’t want to be stranded in a city you didn’t want to live in in the first place.

2. What are you losing if you leave?

Along with the excitement of everything a new city can offer, you’re also going to be leaving a lot behind. This could be friends and family, colleagues, your favourite bar, your local sports team and the easy familiarity of living somewhere you know. Sometimes it’s a little more abstract – It could be the smell, the community spirit or the local dish. Don’t let these things stop you, just take some time to reflect and imagine how you might cope without them being on your doorstep. There’s Facetime and Skype, new shops, a new work challenge and new friends to make in a new city. People’s situations can change very quickly so while you’re making up your mind your local friends could have already moved themselves.

Of course, you may just want to leave some of those things behind – bad relationships, a job you hate, a place you’ve outgrown – all good reasons to consider leaving, but make sure you’re not just running away. Sometimes moving cities only moves your troubles, no solve them.

3. Are you looking for a new work challenge that could be available in another city?

Unless you’ve got a large pot of savings, you’re going to need to find new work before you move. Does the new city have plenty of work potential? It may actually provide your perfect job opportunity, especially if the work you seek is in a niche industry that isn’t provided for in many places.

If you’ve already been offered a job in another city, take time to check out the city and its potential as somewhere to live – Get a feel for it on StreetView in Google Maps, check out TripAdvisor for things to do and look up YouTube review videos.

4. Have you ever lived anywhere other than your current city?

If the answer is no, that could be all you need to know that it’s time to move to a new city. Lots of people spend their entire lives living in the same town and may not even travel further than 100 miles away. But the world is a huge, exciting place and if you don’t get out and explore it, you’ll never know what you’re missing. Moving to a new city could be the start of discovering what the world has to offer.

But if the answer is yes, then ask yourself what you liked about those cities – the food? The people? The weather?

5. Have you stopped having fun where you live?

Don’t underestimate the importance of having some fun where you live. Not everything in life has to be serious, sensible and considered. If you are still having a great time, there is nothing wrong with continuing to have fun. But if malaise and boredom has set it then that’s a sign that you’ve outgrown where you live and it could be time to move on and try somewhere new.

6. Are you adventurous enough to try a new city?

To be honest, it takes quite a bit of courage to move to a new city, find your way around and make new friends. You need to be brave enough to cope with the potential of finding yourself a bit lost and lonely for a little while and have the nerve to make mistakes, explore and get to know people. It can take about a year of feeling like you don’t belong (in the old city or the new city) before you settle down and really start feeling at home. If you’re prepared to accept that, then your move will be much easier.

7. Does your family want to move?

If you have a family this is a big one to consider. Who wants to move and who doesn’t? If you and your partner are united in the desire to move then it’s easier to sell the concept to the rest of the family. If only one of you wants to move then it can be a hard task to convince everyone else to come with you. Teenagers especially are fixed on their friends and school, but if you can demonstrate how great your new city is, show them the opportunities, explain how they can keep in touch with their friends, you might be able to win them over.

8. Will you like the weather?

You have no control over the weather in a city, and some cities really experience climate extremes, so put in the research before you move. If you’re a sun worshipper, then moving to Edinburgh, Scotland might not be the best idea. If you hate the heat, then Austin, Texas isn’t for you. It’s not just the weather, but the whole climate and culture that goes with it. If you live to be in the sea, don’t deliberately put yourself hundreds of miles away from it. Love skiing – find a city near the mountains and combine real life with your favourite sport.

9. Can you afford it?

Probably one of the most practical questions to ask yourself. Cities like London, New York and Paris are renowned for being very expensive to live, but if you’re working there, you should make sure your salary reflects the cost of living. Other cities may be cheaper to live in, but do your research first and make sure you’ll be earning enough to have some spending money to explore your new city.

10. Do you have a back up plan?

We can all make wrong decisions, or things don’t work out as expected, so it’s important to have a Plan B. Always remember that just because one place wasn’t the right move, there’s plenty of other places to try, embrace the opportunity that failure can sometimes give rise to.

Don’t burn bridges in the city you’re leaving and try to leave on a good note, you may want to come back at some point. And you never know who you might meet again or need again in your life.

But remember, it’s OK if it doesn’t work

With any move it’s important to remember that you can’t control and predict everything. There comes a point when you can only prepare for a move so much and sometimes you just have to try it and see. If your attitude is “this has to work!” then you’re applying too much pressure to yourself and you’re more likely to be disappointed. If you accept that your move may not go according to plan because of circumstances outside of your control, then you’ll be much happier.

If you’re moving house from or to London then speak to us about your move to see how we can help or get a quote for your move here.

The post Are You Ready To Move To a New City? 10 Questions To Ask Yourself appeared first on Jam Storage.