Moving to a new home is rarely convenient, and people often need short-term housing in between permanent addresses. Instead of cramming all your belongings into a small apartment, you can opt for temporary storage between moves.
What options are available, how much do they cost, and what’s the best solution for your unique situation?
Join us as we discuss some of the top short-term storage solutions!
What is temporary storage?
Temporary storage solutions offer a safe place to keep your belongings when you need them out of your house. Here’s a closer look at this type of storage:
When would someone use short-term storage?
Misaligned moving dates are some of the most common reasons people seek out temporary storage. Maybe you need to declutter your existing house for showings after placing it on the market. Or, you might be downsizing but need time to decide which items to keep and which to sell or donate.
What’s the average cost of short-term storage?
The average cost of temporary storage can run anywhere from $100 to $300 per month. Of course, this figure will vary based on your location, the size of the unit you require, and the length of your agreement.
A facility near the city center will typically be more expensive than one in a rural area. If you opt for a long-term contract, certain places may offer one month free with a yearly commitment.
Where can you find temporary storage solutions?
You’ll find short-term storage at designated storage facilities, or you can have them delivered to your home. Portable storage solutions are practical and convenient, allowing you to pack them at your leisure and either keep them on your property or send them to a storage facility until you’re ready to move.
What options are there for temporary storage between moves?
You’ll find different options for short-term storage that each come with their own benefits and disadvantages. Here are a few choices to consider:
Self-storage facility
Self-storage facilities house numerous units, often different sizes, where renters can store their belongings. You can typically rent these spaces on a monthly basis with no commitment. Many locations offer climate-controlled units for items like clothes, furniture, and electronics that need protection from extreme temperatures and humidity.
Depending on the facility, you may have 24-hour access to your belongings if you have a key or security code.
Portable storage containers
Portable storage containers are an excellent option for people who don’t want to haul heavy stuff to and from a storage unit. A company like Red Rover delivers a sturdy metal container to your home. You fill it with items and either leave it on your property or send it to a secure, offsite storage location.
Storage with full-service movers
When you don’t have the time, ability, or desire to do all the packing, lifting, and loading yourself, full-service movers can be a lifesaver. When you opt for the total package, you can expect these professionals to show up with packing materials, prepare your items for transit, load everything up, ensure your cargo arrives safely, and unload at your chosen storage facility. Naturally, a cross-country move will cost more than a local one, so plan accordingly.
If you don’t need access to your belongings, you can have them store your stuff in a warehouse. This storage option may not offer the convenience of a self-service facility, but it’s typically less expensive.
How to choose the best option for temporary storage between moves
There are several factors to consider when selecting the best storage solution. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
How much space you need
Many people only need to store a relatively small amount of furniture and other items for a limited time. Red Rover’s portable storage containers are available in 8’ by 8’ and 8’ by 16’ sizes. The smaller option can hold one to two rooms worth of belongings, while the larger container can accommodate up to three to four rooms of stuff.
If you’re looking for short-term storage for everything you own, you might need to opt for a larger storage unit.
Storage location and access
When utilizing temporary storage between moves, consider whether you’ll need frequent access to your items. Try to pack intentionally, sending seasonal decor and rarely used items to storage while holding onto the things you regularly use.
Of course, you can always keep your storage container on your property to ensure easy access.
Cost efficiency and budget
You’ll want to do the math before choosing a temporary storage solution. Consider monthly fees and the costs of packing and transporting your items. Then, calculate the potential expenses for your worst-case scenario.
Flexible terms
When preparing for a move, remember to expect the unexpected. There’s always a chance you may need to extend your short-term storage beyond the initial time period. Working with a high-quality company with flexible rental agreements can save you from a major headache if a closing falls through or a pipe bursts and you need to delay your move.
Security features
Most storage options require you to supply your own lock and key for your individual unit. However, storage facilities may have gated access, personal entry codes, and cameras throughout the property to ensure the safety of your items.
Red Rover has you covered with temporary storage solutions for your next move!
Let Red Rover do the heavy lifting for your next move! Whether you want help packing or you’re looking for the best temporary storage solution available, we’re here to help.
Contact us today for a quote!