Buy/make 'pirate chests' for storage

KingL

I want to buy/make some unglamorous 'pirate chest' storage boxes to put my posessions in (my freeholder's roofspace) while I'm travelling for a couple of years.

I have checked out the price of commercial storage and it is just RIDICULOUS.

I figure I can do a DIY version - I can clear permission for access with my freeholder and I pretty-much trust my neighbours not to nick my stuff (especially if I slap a padlock on it).

So, now I just need some lockable boxes (total about 8 cu metres).

I have checked out ebay and a couple of local joineries for boxes, but the prices for a trunk are pretty ridiculous.

Anyone know of a place to get wooden/PVC boxes about 1metre x 1 metre x 1 metre, dirt cheap? It doesn't need to be pretty. Do they still make tea chests? Where do you get them from? I can slap a lid and lock on it, no problem.

west london

tia

cornishchick

Have you looked at blanket boxes .

or the plastic type garden storage trunks?

Drachenfach

Searching for lockable plastic trunk may help you find what you're after.

I bought one like this to transport my stuff to the UK from France. Getting it down five flights of studies was a pain, but the site has smaller models too.

http://www.solentplastics.co.uk/big-boxes-plastic-storage-trunks/other-big-storage-boxes-trunks/

missbiggles1

Will you have any insurance cover for your stuff?

Owain_Moneysaver

You can get tea crates new

http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Tea-Chest-Wooden-Old-StyleTea-Chest-Packing-Case-Removals-Storage-Shipping-/111770737854?hash=item1a060e1cbe

http://www.kitepackaging.co.uk/scp/heavy-duty-cardboard-boxes/timber-cases-and-wooden-crates/

or do an ebay search for 'nearest first' as used ones seem to be about a tenner.

An alternative might be some cheap wardrobes (which are about £30 from the furniture recyling place round here) and put padlocks on them. Lie them flat on their backs like coffins if needed.

jackyann

Depending on how many boxes you want, big dug are often very good.

Islandmaid

Can't advise on boxes, but get some silica pouches or similar to keep your stuff dry - no fun coming home from your travels to find boxes of mouldy stuff...

skintpaul

Can you trust your landlord?

I would rather leave with relative / friend, or put into commercial storage.