A Guide to Choosing Best Type of Temporary Storage Between Moves

Moving can definitely be a daunting task and not one many of us often look forward to, especially when it comes to finding the absolute best temporary storage between moves for our belongings. So, what do you do as you bridge the gap between leaving your old space and settling into your new one?

Whether you are embarking on a local move or a more complicated cross-country move, you want to find the right storage solutions. To help make your transition smoother, we are going to explore the best temporary storage choices that are tailored to different moving scenarios.

Storage for Local Moves

If it’s a local move and the distance between your new and old place is relatively short, you should consider a self-storage option like EZ Storage. With three convenient Boston metro locations in Framingham, Natick, and Newton, EZ Storage offers a flexible and accessible solution for all of your short-term storage needs. It is a top choice because it provides the convenience and flexibility you need for a local move.

two story self storage facility with gated entrance

The Advantages of Self-Storage Facilities

Self-storage facilities are versatile and widely available. There are various unit sizes and climate-controlled options. You also don’t have to deal with long-term contracts, which, of course, is important when you are looking for temporary storage between moves.

Here are some of the advantages you will have when choosing self-storage for your move:

  • Temporary Storage: Self-storage provides a temporary solution for storing your belongings during a transition period.
  • Flexibility: It offers a fair amount of flexibility in terms of rental duration, allowing you to rent space for a short or long period based on your needs.
  • Space Optimization: You can optimize the space in your new residence by storing items you don’t immediately need but may be required in the future. So, the self-storage option is not only good during a move but also helpful after.
  • Security: Many self-storage facilities have advanced security measures like surveillance cameras and gated access, which ensures the safety and security of your items.
  • Accessibility: Most self-storage facilities offer convenient access hours, allowing you to retrieve or store items at your convenience.
  • Climate Control: This is important when you have to store more sensitive items like electronics, furniture, and documents.
  • Variety of Unit Sizes: You can choose from a range of different size options, so you can choose the space that best fits your needs.

Storage for Cross Country Moves

Moving across country definitely requires a fair share of planning, and having a reliable temporary storage solution in place is going to prove to be super important. Moving companies with warehouse storage facilities can be a good option.

Many moving companies offer warehouse storage services, especially for long-distance moves.

However, research to ensure you are working with a reputable moving company that offers secure storage facilities. Narrow down your choices to one that can provide both moving services and temporary storage if you want to streamline the process.

The biggest disadvantage to this, however, is that the items stored are in a warehouse shared by other households. This means you will not have access to your items until the company delivers them to your new home.

Storage for Company Relocations or Temporary Assignments

If you are facing a company relocation or even a temporary work assignment, then convenience and flexibility will top your list. Portable storage containers, or PODs, are a practical solution.

large metal storage container

There are companies nationwide that provide containers you can load at your convenience. Once loaded, the company will move the container to a storage facility. This is a great option for those who may need to access their belongings during temporary housing situations or in the event of a sudden relocation.

PODs allow you to load and unload your items at your own pace. They are conveniently delivered to your doorstep and come in various sizes. They offer secure storage that is cost-effective and offers you the convenience and flexibility you need when looking for short-term storage options. However, the costs can begin adding up when you start adding in delivery fees, storage fees, and potential charges for exceeding time limits.

When choosing this portable storage option, make sure you confirm delivery and storage costs and make sure the container is weatherproof and secure. Depending on your location, there also may be restrictions in place on where you can place your PODs container. This can make things more complicated, especially for urban or densely populated areas.

Moving From Your Home to Temporary Housing

Sometimes, you may need to move from your home to temporary housing for a short period of time. If this is the case, and you only need storage for a month or less, it might make the most sense to use the garage of a friend or family member who is close by.

It’s going to be one of the more cost-effective options out there, but you also need some clear communication and a fair amount of coordination to get this done. A garage is a practical solution for storing furniture and other belongings for a few months or so until a more permanent residence or solution comes along.

This is not only a personal space and familiar to you, but it can make a lot of sense when you’re looking for temporary storage between moves. You just need to be sure to clearly communicate with your friend or family member when it comes to how long you need to store your items, how you will have access to them, and what kind of restrictions there may be on what you can store. Try not to overstay your welcome!

It is also important to keep in mind that this is probably going to be a limited space which restricts the number of items you can store. Additionally, it can pose an inconvenience for your friend, your belongings may not be as secure as they would be in a self-storage facility, and there is no insurance coverage for your stored items.

Are There Other Temporary Storage Options?

If you’re still asking, “How do you store your belongings when moving?” then you might be looking for more information. Out of all the options we outlined above, consider self-storage facilities as the primary choice for temporary storage. Many facilities offer month-to-month leases without any real long-term commitment, so you can have the flexibility you need during your move.

So, where should you store your stuff before moving in? A self-storage facility provides a flexible, secure, and convenient solution for short-term storage during a move. It offers you peace of mind as you navigate the transitional period between locations, and you don’t have to deal with messy long-term contracts.

up close perspective of a hand using a pen to write on a paper on a clipboard

How to Cut Down on Moving Stress

Now that you have your storage options narrowed down, let’s cut some more stress out of your life. Yes, moving can be a stressful experience, but with some careful planning and a little organization, you can make it a much smoother experience for everyone. Here is a list of ideas to help spur you forward with some positive momentum.

  • Create a Moving Binder: Your moving binder contains all your important documents, checklists, and contracts, so everything is in one place and easily accessible. This includes moving estimates, receipts, and other relevant paperwork.
  • Declutter Before Packing: Before moving anything into short-term storage, go through everything and declutter. Donate or sell items you no longer need. This reduces the number of items you have to pack and helps you create a fresh start in your new home.
  • Label Boxes: Use detailed labels on your moving boxes. This makes it easier to identify contents and makes for an easier unpacking process. Need to grab something from storage? Those labels are going to cut down on your search time.
  • Create a Moving Timeline: Come up with a detailed timeline for moving day. Break down tasks by week or day to avoid having any last-minute rushes.

Above all, make sure you remain flexible and adapt as needed as you look for the best temporary storage between moves. A well-organized move not only reduces stress but also sets the tone for a smoother transition into your new home.

Ready to reserve a short-term storage unit for your move? Contact EZ Storage today for more details.

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About the Author: EZ Storage

EZ Storage has been in the self storage business for over 45 years. We operate self storage facilities in Framingham, Natick and Newton, Massachusetts.