Moving from one home to another can be an exciting adventure, but it can come with its fair share of challenges. One such challenge may be the need for temporary storage between moves. Not that the process of finding temporary storage between moves is in and of itself challenging/ It’s just that with all the other things to think about … well, here’s one more thing.
But don’t stress it. Are you downsizing? Renovating your new place? Facing a gap between move-out and move-in dates? Temporary storage can be easy to find — and a lifesaver.
In this blog post, we’ll explore the benefits of temporary storage between moves and how a professional moving company can make the process smooth and stress-free.
Something to keep in mind right at the outset: Moving companies with their own on-site storage options tend to be very expensive and may have limited access hours. Renting from a dedicated storage company, on the other hand, may be less costly, while also allowing increased access to your storage unit.
Why Might You Need Temporary Storage Between Moves?
There are several reasons why you might find yourself in need of temporary storage between moves:
- Renovations: If your new home is undergoing renovations or updates, storing your belongings elsewhere can protect them from dust and damage during the construction process.
- Downsizing: Moving to a smaller space often means you need to downsize your belongings. Temporary storage provides a secure place for items you can’t part with but can’t fit in your new home.
- Gap Between Moves: Sometimes, there’s a gap between your move-out and move-in dates. Temporary storage ensures your belongings are safe and easily accessible during this transition.
- Staging Your Home: If you’re selling your current home, you might need to store some of your furniture and personal items to make your space more appealing to potential buyers.
- Emergencies: Unexpected circumstances, such as a delay in closing on your new home, might require temporary storage as a last-minute solution.
Benefits of Temporary Storage Between Moves
Now that we’ve established the scenarios where temporary storage can be incredibly useful, let’s delve into its advantages:
- Safety and Security: Reputable moving companies may offer secure storage facilities with advanced security measures, ensuring your belongings are protected against theft and damage.
- Peace of Mind: Knowing that your valuable possessions are safely stored away can alleviate the stress associated with moving and transitional periods.
- Flexibility: Temporary storage provides flexibility for the duration of storage. Whether you need it for a few days or several months, you can tailor the storage period to your specific needs.
- Preservation: Delicate items, antiques, and sensitive electronics can be especially vulnerable during a move. Temporary storage helps preserve these items until they can be safely transported to your new home.
- Space Optimization: You can make better use of your new living space by storing items that won’t be immediately needed. This can help you get settled in more comfortably.
Choosing the Right Moving Company
To make the most of temporary storage between moves, it’s essential to choose a reliable and professional moving company. Here are some factors to consider:
- Reputation: Research reviews and testimonials from past clients to gauge the company’s reputation for reliability and customer satisfaction.
- Services Offered: Ensure the moving company provides temporary storage services tailored to your specific needs, including the size of storage units and the duration of storage.
- Insurance: Verify that your belongings will be insured while in storage. This added protection can provide peace of mind during the storage period.
- Accessibility: Learn the accessibility hours for the storage facility to ensure you can access your items when necessary.
- Pricing: Request a clear and detailed quote that includes storage fees, so you know what to expect.
The Seamless Transition
Securing temporary storage between moves can actually be an enjoyable experience since it’s part of the general excitement of relocating. With the right moving company by your side, you can enjoy the benefits of secure storage, peace of mind, and the flexibility to adapt to your unique circumstances.
By taking the time to plan and choose a trusted moving partner, you can ensure a seamless transition from your old home to your new one.
At Smooth Move People, we understand the challenges and nuances of moving and the importance of temporary storage solutions. Our team is dedicated to providing top-notch moving and services tailored to your needs. And we’re happy to make expert recommendations related to finding temporary storage for your belongings.
Renting a storage unit can help solve your space dilemmas. Finding the right storage unit size can help save you time, money, and stress.
(As a side note, if you move into a temporary home or apartment, see if you can find one that’s already furnished. You don’t want to plan two moves in the span of a month.)
Storage facilities offer a variety of sizes and rental times. Short-term storage, long-term, and even month-to-month options are often available. It’s important to know how long you’ll need the unit, although most storage companies will work with you to find a timeframe that works best.
What Size Storage Unit Do You Need?
The first thing you’ll need to do is make a list of what items need to be stored in the unit. Your list will help you stay organized as you juggle the various parts of your move, but it will also give you an idea of what things need to be packed away and what needs to be taken directly to your new place.
The next step is to measure. Measure your boxes, if any, plus other items to determine how much space you’ll need. Then, work with a storage company professional to choose the size that works for you.
Secure storage options come in many sizes. Some of the more common include:
- 5×5: This is often the smallest unit available — about the size of a large closet.
- 5×10: This usually holds smaller furniture or larger appliances in addition to allowing space for boxes or other gear. Remember, storage space is three-dimensional, so try to stack things efficiently.
- 10×10: This size usually accommodates larger furniture and more of your belongings — maybe enough to store a full living room and a couple of small bedrooms.
- 10×30: Large enough to hold the contents of a small house five rooms or so, depending on the specific items.
Finally, many storage companies offer what are basically storage lockers. These can be ideal for storing things like seasonal clothing and holiday decorations. Another possibility that may be ideal for short-term storage is a portable storage unit.
Whether it’s a local or long-distance move, storing your stuff between moves means deciding how much storage costs you’re able to bear. You’ll need to determine some things. How important are things like climate-controlled facilities? You’ll also want a storage company that is reputable and has high ratings for safety, accessibility, and customer satisfaction.
Choosing a Storage Company
Choose a storage company with a history of good reviews. If you determine that a storage unit is necessary, find a place that is convenient for your new home or apartment. If you anticipate getting things out of it regularly, you don’t want to be driving across town all the time.
Of course, if it turns out that you don’t want to pay for a storage unit, your best bet is to purge as much as you can before your move. Donate or sell as much as you can so you don’t have to pack and move as many items.
Smooth Move People
Let our team at Smooth Move People handle the moving details. We will help get everything moved safely and efficiently to your new space. We’ll pack your belongings, load the moving truck, and unload at the storage space or your new home.
In addition to packing everything up, we provide packing supplies, too! We have wardrobe boxes for your clothes, boxes specifically designed for glasses and dishes, and durable boxes for heavy items. We sell packing paper, bubble wrap, packing tape, and other items you may need for moving day.
Don’t let the logistics of moving overwhelm you; let Smooth Move People help you!
It’s what we do.
This post was updated on 9/18/23.
