Need a Storage Unit While Moving? Here’s What to Look For!
So, you’re selling your home—exciting! But between decluttering, staging, and making your place look like a Pinterest dream, you might be wondering: Where the heck do I put all my stuff?!
Enter the storage unit—your temporary best friend during the home-selling process. Whether you need a spot for extra furniture, seasonal décor, or just those questionable impulse buys you’re not ready to part with, choosing the right storage unit is key.
Here’s what you need to know before renting one!
1. Size Matters—But Bigger Isn’t Always Better
You don’t want to pay for extra space you don’t need, but you also don’t want to cram everything in like a bad game of Tetris.
📏 Consider:
A 5x10 unit fits small furniture and boxes—perfect for light decluttering.
A 10x10 unit holds a 1-bedroom apartment’s worth of stuff.
A 10x20 unit can store most of a house if you’re in full-on moving mode.
💡 Pro Tip: Stack smart! Use sturdy bins, disassemble furniture, and go vertical to maximize space.
2. Location, Location, Location (Even for Storage!)
If you’re going to be in and out of your unit while prepping your home for sale, pick one close to home. No one wants to drive across town every time they need their winter boots or an extra lamp.
🚗 Bonus Tip: Look for drive-up access if you’re storing heavier furniture—it’ll save you a ton of hassle.
3. Climate Control—Is It Worth It?
If you’re storing items that hate extreme heat, cold, or humidity (think electronics, wood furniture, or grandma’s antique quilt collection), climate-controlled storage is worth the extra cost.
🌡️ Good candidates for climate control:
Artwork and photos
Musical instruments
Leather or wooden furniture
Anything sentimental you don’t want to risk getting warped, moldy, or ruined
4. Security—Keep Your Stuff Safe!
The last thing you need while moving is to worry about your things disappearing. Look for a storage facility with:
✅ 24/7 surveillance
✅ Gated access and individual unit locks
✅ On-site management
🔑 Bonus Tip: Bring your own heavy-duty lock for extra security—cheap locks are easier to cut.
5. Rental Terms—Flexibility is Key!
Since you’re moving, you might not know exactly how long you’ll need storage. Avoid long-term contracts if possible and go for month-to-month options.
📆 Ask about:
Move-in specials (many places offer the first month free!)
Penalties for early move-out
24-hour access vs. limited hours
Final Thoughts: Storage = Your Moving Secret Weapon
Decluttering before listing your home? Need a spot for furniture while staging? Moving but have a gap between houses? A storage unit can be a total lifesaver.
Need tips on prepping your home for sale? Let’s chat! I’ll help you get your place looking amazing so you can sell faster—and for top dollar.