Choosing the Best Short Term Storage Option

There are plenty of reasons why you may be on the lookout for a short-term storage solution. Perhaps you’ve got some time between moving dates and nowhere to keep all of your belongings, or maybe you’re doing a home renovation project and need to clear out a couple of rooms during construction. Regardless of why you’re looking for short-term storage, you’ll want to keep a few considerations in mind when choosing how and where to store your items.

What is short-term storage?

Short-term storage is generally defined as storage for three months or less, but it’s really just storage where you know you want to be able to access your belongings sooner rather than later. Let’s explore your options.

What are your short-term storage options?

The storage option you choose should be predicated on both the type of transition that you’re making and the things that you intend to store. Your two main options are a self-storage facility and curbside storage in a storage container or containers (pods). There are some other, cost-effective alternatives that we’ll explore below.

The self-storage facilities will typically charge you on a month-to-month basis, which is ideal for short-term storage and will let you move out of your self-storage unit easily. If you need to store something that requires a climate-controlled environment (furniture, electronics, musical instruments, etc.), then you’ll need a self-storage facility with climate-controlled options.

A portable storage container is like having your very own storage facility located right in your driveway. It’s a popular option for short-term storage because you can have easy access to your belongings. You can use the portable storage container for as long as you need to. You’ll also pay monthly. And check with your homeowners’ association to see if you need permission to keep the unit on your property.

Both options have their benefits. Self-storage offers on-site amenities, security, a variety of sizes, easy access, and extra peace of mind. The pods are budget-friendly, easy to load and unload, and are within an arm’s reach since they can be placed on your property.

What is the best short-term storage option for you?

When researching the best fit for your needs, keep the following variables in mind.

How much space you’ll require

This is one of the most important factors in choosing any storage solution, short or long term. Storage facilities offer a range of unit sizes, and when you’re booking, you’ll want to have a general idea of how much space you’ll need so that you don’t rent a unit that’s either too small or too large.

You’ll want to consider the size and shape of any boxes and/or other items you’ll be keeping in the storage unit, as well as how you plan to be storing them (i.e. all shoved into one place or organized so that you can access things as you need them). Discuss your needs with the storage facility you’re interested in so they can help you choose the right size unit.

Storage containers also come in a few sizes, but the options aren’t as varied as they are with the self-storage facilities. PODS, for example, offers storage containers in 8-, 12- and 16-ft. sizes.

Storage location and access

Depending on the reason you need temporary storage in the first place, you may want to rent a unit that affords you better access than you’d need with a long-term unit. For example, if you’re storing items during a home renovation or restoration, consider getting a storage container that you can keep right in your driveway so that you can easily pull items as you need them.

If you don’t need access to your belongings regularly, you’re probably still going to want a short-term storage unit that you can get to quickly and access on your schedule. For the best access capabilities when you’re not housing the storage unit on your property, look for short-term storage facilities that allow for drive-up storage access so that you can easily load and unload your container. Some facilities are more flexible with access than others, so wherever you choose, be sure you know what their rules.

Cost efficiency

Just like with most things you rent, the less amount of time you’re looking to lease a storage space for, the more amount of money you should expect to spend per month. To keep your costs down, it might be best to rent through a storage company that specializes in temporary storage, since their pricing will already be formulated with short-term agreements in mind. Do your research, comparing prices among a couple of options and seeking out any possible discounts or deals that are out there.

Term flexibility

It’s not always the case that you know the exact date you’ll need your short-term storage unit through, or even a range of dates. This is particularly true if you’re storing your items because you sold your home but still haven’t figured out where you’re moving to next. If this is the case, skip the guesswork and look for temporary storage with a month-to-month lease, an option you’ll usually find with a type of storage called mini storage. With mini storage, you get charged on a monthly basis, so when you’re ready to take your things out of storage you just have to end the contract.

You’ll pay the rental fee every month and you can load and unload at your leisure. The monthly fee includes the time the container may spend on your property, in storage, or en route to your new home (if you’re moving). Some storage container companies, like PODS, offer offsite storage at their facilities and will pick up the loaded container, store it, and will deliver it to either your old or new home (again, if you’re moving).

Unit amenities

If you’re planning to store art, electronics or other items that may be susceptible to damage in a storage unit, be sure to look for a short-term option that offers both temperature control and, if it’s necessary, humidity control. This is especially critical if you’re planning to store items during periods of extreme heat or cold. Even just a short period of time in extreme temperatures, dampness or humidity can damage certain items, so you’ll want to know ahead of time that your things will be protected. In this case, we recommend a self-storage facility with the aforementioned amenities.

Storage security

Short or long term, if you’re storing your items, you want to be sure the facility is doing everything it can to keep them safe. Look for a short-term storage facility that has things like gates, security cameras and on-site managers for the best assurance that your belongings will be protected. The more bare-bones the facility, the less you’ll likely be spending, but it may not be worth it in terms of site security. Be sure to factor the safety of your unit into your research, especially if you plan to be storing items of high value.

If security is not that much of a concern, you’re confident you can keep an eye on your rented storage container, or you have a good security system in place on your property, renting a storage container might be a more cost-effective option. Most portable storage units have a locking mechanism you can use with your own lock.

The cost of short-term self-storage

According to the SpareFoot self-storage marketplace, the average monthly cost to rent a self-storage unit in the U.S. is $108.18 per month. The price rose more than 21% from 2020 to 2021 due to the pandemic and the increase in the price of steel.

To break it down by unit size, the average self-storage price in 2021 was as follows:

5×10 – $78.95
10×10 – $119.84
10×15 – $154.45
10×20 – $171.21
10×30 – $246.85

The cost of self-storage storage is determined by:

Demand might be higher in large urban areas.
The larger the storage unit needed, the higher the monthly cost.
Amenities and add-on services. Facilities with better amenities like top-notch security are going to cost more. Add-on services, like purchasing packing supplies, will also cost extra.
Most storage facilities require customers to have insurance. For many customers, storage items can be covered by their homeowners or renters insurance. Those without insurance will need to secure a policy before renting a storage unit.

Where can I find a short-term self-storage storage unit?

To find storage in your area, use Moving.com’s Storage Center. Just type in your zip code or city and state of residence, and click the “Find Storage” button. Moving.com will pull quotes from the closest storage unit facilities near your new or old home to compare.

There are countless self-storage options, from a simple storage locker to units big enough to pack a five-bedroom house. Your best option is to find a highly rated company that has enough locations near you, the most amenities and features, and an up-to-date security system.

What are the alternatives to self-storage and renting a storage container?

If convenience and budget are strong considerations, you have a few other options.

Store in-transit with the moving company

If you’re going to be hiring a moving company anyway to help you load your items, ask if they offer storage in transit (SIT). This option is great for people storing items temporarily in between moves, as the movers will take your items out of your old home, store them for a set amount of time, and then offload them at your new home when you’re ready to move in.

It’s not the cheapest option, and will likely set you back more than renting a short-term storage unit through a dedicated facility, but it does include the cost of having professional movers handle your things. If you know you’ll need movers either way, it may be easier and more cost-effective to go with SIT instead of hiring movers for the move into and out of storage and paying for a unit in between.

Store on your property

If you have a basement, attic, a shed, a garage or an extra room you can use to store your belongings, it will definitely save you money. You can use all available spaces in your house like closets, space under the beds or on top of the cabinets. Plastic containers or plastic moving boxes work well for storing bedding, clothes, shoes, and more.

Store with friends and family

Don’t have any extra space? Ask your friends and family to temporarily store some of your belongings in their homes or on their property. It won’t cost you a dime so it’s worth asking – just honor their timeline.

Three best companies for short-term storage

Extra Space Storage

Public Storage

PODS

Short-term storage FAQs

How long can I rent a storage unit or container?

In most cases, pretty much indefinitely, for as long as you need it. Some self-storage companies offer month-to-month contracts, so you can always get out whenever you want; others may have a three-month minimum. When you’re ready to clear out, check the company rules regarding when you must give notice to avoid being charged for the next month. You can also rent a storage container for as long as you need, and pay every month.

What is the difference between full-service storage and self-storage?

Full-service storage means that in addition to storing your stuff, the company will pack and move it too. Self-storage implies that you move your things to the unit on your own.

When do I need climate-controlled storage?

Climate-controlled units are heated in the winter and have AC on in warmer months. They are also regulated for humidity levels. Any belongings that can be damaged by the heat, freezing temps or moisture should be stored in a climate-controlled unit. This applies to any valuables like art, antiques and fine wine.

How far in advance do I need to book a self-storage unit?

It depends on the company you’re booking from. Some require between a week’s and a 30 days’ notice; others offer contactless online booking with an immediate move-in available. Check out our Self-Storage Checklist to follow the suggested timeline or to create your own.

Where can I find discounts on self-storage?

Look for the referral and sign-on deals on the company website, or call customer service. You can find such offers as a discount on your one month’s rent if you refer someone, or $1 rent on the first month.

What self-storage storage company has the most locations?

Public Storage is the largest owner and operator of self-storage facilities in the world.

What’s the best way to store furniture?

Climate-controlled storage units are your best choice for storing furniture. Otherwise, your furniture can be exposed to heat, humidity and freezing temps, which can damage or ruin it completely.

What is storage in transit?

Merriam-Webster defines it as “the storing at an intermediate point of goods that are to be reshipped to their final destination within a prescribed period.” SIT is a good option for storing items temporarily in between moves. If you are hiring a moving company, the movers can store them for a set amount of time and then offload them at your new home when you’re ready to move in.

Are storage containers waterproof?

Typically, yes. They are steel-frame containers, designed to be weather-resistant. Portable storage units are usually made from a combination of steel, wood and high-impact-resistant polymers for durability and protection from the elements.

How fast can I get a storage container delivered?

Delivery dates are subject to availability, so we recommend scheduling as soon as you know your timeline. This kind of storage is in high demand in the summer and on Saturdays.

The bottom line

Choosing the best short-term storage solution ultimately comes down to what you need and the options available in your area. Don’t just go with the first option that you find. Compare a few companies and types of storage units, and factor in cost, size, and other important variables.

Are you moving?

If you’re moving to a new home, you may also need reliable movers to help out. To find the best moving company to move your belongings, check Moving.com’s extensive network of reputable and reliable movers.