The Complete Guide to Moving & Self-Storage
Whether you're between homes, staging a house for sale, or just need temporary space during a move, self-storage can be a lifesaver. Here's everything you need to know.
Quick Answer
For a typical move, a 10x10 storage unit ($100-200/month) fits a 1-2 bedroom home. Book 2-4 weeks before your move, choose climate control for furniture and electronics, and get insurance. Most people need storage for 2-3 months during a move.
In This Guide
1. When Do You Need Storage During a Move?
Not every move requires storage, but these situations often do:
- Gap between homes: Your old lease ends before the new one starts
- Staging a home for sale: Declutter to make rooms look larger
- Downsizing: Moving to a smaller space but not ready to part with everything
- Renovation: Protecting furniture during construction
- Long-distance move: Shipping takes time, need temporary storage
- Divorce or separation: Dividing belongings takes time
- Military deployment: Storing household goods while away
2. What Size Storage Unit Do You Need?
Use this guide to estimate your needs:
| Unit Size | Fits | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 5x5 | Small closet, boxes, seasonal items | $50-75/mo |
| 5x10 | Studio apartment, mattress + furniture | $75-125/mo |
| 10x10 | 1-2 bedroom home | $100-200/mo |
| 10x15 | 2-3 bedroom home | $150-275/mo |
| 10x20 | 3-4 bedroom home, vehicles | $200-350/mo |
| 10x30 | Large home, multiple vehicles | $300-450/mo |
Pro tip: When in doubt, go one size up. The cost difference is usually $20-40/month, but cramming everything in makes access difficult and increases damage risk.
3. How to Choose a Storage Facility
Not all storage facilities are equal. Look for:
Security Features
- 24/7 video surveillance
- Individual unit alarms
- Gated access with unique codes
- On-site manager or security
- Well-lit facility
Climate Control
Essential for protecting:
- Wood furniture (prevents warping/cracking)
- Electronics (prevents moisture damage)
- Photos, documents, books
- Leather goods
- Musical instruments
- Artwork
Access Hours
- 24/7 access: Best for frequent visits
- Extended hours (6am-10pm): Good for most people
- Business hours only: Cheapest but least convenient
4. Storage Costs & How to Save
Average storage costs vary widely by location:
- Major cities: $150-300/month for 10x10
- Suburbs: $100-175/month for 10x10
- Rural areas: $75-125/month for 10x10
Money-Saving Tips
- First month free: Many facilities offer move-in specials
- Prepay discounts: Pay 6-12 months upfront for 10-15% off
- Choose ground floor: Often cheaper than climate-controlled
- Go slightly outside city: 10-15 minutes away can save 30%
- Avoid peak season: May-September is most expensive
- Negotiate: Ask for price matching if you find a better deal
5. Packing for Storage
Proper packing prevents damage during long-term storage:
- Use sturdy boxes: Uniform sizes stack better
- Wrap furniture: Moving blankets or plastic wrap
- Disassemble when possible: Beds, tables, shelving
- Clean everything: Dirt attracts pests
- Don't store food: Attracts rodents and insects
- Use pallets: Keep boxes off concrete floors
- Label everything: On multiple sides of each box
6. Organizing Your Storage Unit
A well-organized unit saves time and prevents damage:
- Create an aisle: Leave a path down the middle for access
- Heavy items on bottom: Furniture and appliances first
- Frequently needed items near door: Seasonal items, documents
- Stack strategically: Heaviest boxes on bottom, fragile on top
- Keep an inventory: List what's in each box
- Take photos: Document condition for insurance
7. Storage Insurance
Your belongings need protection. Options include:
- Facility insurance: $10-25/month for $2,000-5,000 coverage
- Homeowners/renters insurance: May cover off-site storage (check policy)
- Separate storage insurance: For high-value items
Warning: Storage facilities are NOT liable for damage or theft unless they were negligent. Always have insurance coverage.
8. Alternatives to Self-Storage
Self-storage isn't always the best option:
- Portable containers (PODS, etc.): Delivered to your home, you pack, they store
- Full-service storage: They pack, pick up, store, and deliver (Clutter, MakeSpace)
- Friends/family: Free but may strain relationships
- Sell and rebuy: Sometimes cheaper than storing for years
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