Why and How to Use Storage Between Moves: A Guide for Stress-Free Transitions

Moving homes should feel like a fresh start, not a frantic juggling act. But more often than not, timelines misalign, leases overlap, and belongings end up without a place to go. The question then becomes less about how to move and more about where everything goes in between.

In this guide, discover why more people are turning to temporary storage during their moves, how to make it work for your situation, and what to consider if you’re planning a move soon.

Why Storage Between Moves Makes Relocating Easier

Using temporary storage can reduce stress, add flexibility, and help you stay in control throughout your move. Here’s how:

1. Bridges the gap between move-in and move-out dates
   Move-in and move-out dates can sometimes misalign. For instance, the new place might not be ready yet, or there might still be some ongoing renovation work.

   This can leave your furniture, appliances, and personal items unexpectedly out on the streets, but you can find them a temporary home in self-storage units like the ones Stuf Storage offers.

   This strategy can be especially valuable in unplanned relocations or while navigating a volatile housing market where it’s common to lock in a lease even before securing the next place to avoid missing an opportunity.

2. Helps you manage delays and legal setbacks
   Property settlements, landlord agreements, or last-minute contract snags can derail timelines, leaving you caught between properties with no clear move-in date. This is especially common for buyers in chain transactions or tenants moving into newly constructed properties still awaiting occupancy clearance.

   Having your items safely stored removes the panic and gives you flexibility until the paperwork is finalized.

   

3. Reduces moving day pressure
   According to a recent survey by The Journal Record, 82% of respondents agreed that moving was stressful, with 19% even going so far as to say it’s more stressful than divorce

   Spreading the move into phases using temporary storage gives you breathing room, especially if you're packing yourself or managing other responsibilities like kids, pets, or work. It also lets you mentally transition more gradually, which is a benefit that’s rarely discussed but widely appreciated by people who’ve done chaotic moves before.

4. Provides a secure place for items that need care
   Fragile antiques, electronics, art pieces, and sensitive documents may require special handling. And instead of letting those valuables sit in crowded garages or risk getting damaged in transit, you can place them in a climate-controlled, secured storage unit until you're ready to move them in with care.

   Pro tip: Storing furniture in your storage unit while you get settled in your new apartment? Learn how to do it the right way with our guide on the best furniture storage practices.

   Stuf Storage facilities offer:

   • 24/7 surveillance
   • Safe, accessible locations
   • Digital access control
   • Heavy-duty padlocks for every unit

   If your homeowner’s insurance doesn’t cover your storage unit, Stuf also offers an additional insurance package starting at $9/month to protect your items from unforeseeable events.

5. Protects privacy in temporary living arrangements
   If you're couch-surfing, moving in temporarily with family, or staying in an Airbnb while between homes, bringing all your possessions with you isn’t always practical or safe. Short-term storage ensures your belongings stay private, undisturbed, and accessible only to you.

6. Supports better space planning in the new home
   It’s tempting to move everything in at once, but that can make it harder to thoughtfully plan the layout and function of your new home. Placing non-essentials in storage between house moves allows you to first move in the basics, assess the space, and gradually integrate additional furniture and decor.

   This approach prevents overcrowding and helps you design a more intentional, functional living area. This way, you’re curating your new space to suit your new lifestyle.

7. Enhances moving day logistics
   Placing seasonal items, surplus furniture, or packed boxes in storage ahead of time allows you to streamline the number of things that need to be moved on the day itself.

   This can:

   • Reduce the number of trips (or trucks) required
   • Save on moving costs
   • Lessen stress for both you and your movers

   It also gives you the flexibility to move in stages if needed, especially helpful when kids, pets, or long travel distances are involved.

   

8. Simplifies long-distance relocations
   Storage and moving become even more tightly linked when you’re relocating across states or overseas.

   Storing your items locally for the short term can reduce the pressure of long-distance coordination. It allows you to settle into your new environment first, then gradually retrieve and integrate your belongings once you're ready.

9. Makes proper styling and selling easier
   If you're selling your home, presentation matters. Potential buyers might be put off by cluttered rooms, overstuffed closets, or too much furniture that makes spaces feel smaller or distracts from key features.

   Self storage allows you to remove these items and stage your home for maximum appeal. It also makes your home look better in listing photographs and makes it seem more inviting and memorable.

10. Lets you declutter before fully settling in
    A moving and temporary storage unit gives you a “holding zone” for items you’re unsure about, without crowding your living areas.

    This makes it easier to:

    • Test new layouts before committing to keeping bulky pieces
    • Identify duplicates or outdated items once the essentials are unpacked
    • Avoid starting your new chapter with unnecessary clutter

    Not sure where to start decluttering? Get some expert tips in our guide on how to declutter like a pro.

No matter the size or complexity of your relocation, using storage between moves can offer the flexibility, security, and convenience your move deserves. Aside from moving house, using self-storage can also provide similar benefits during other periods of your life.

Discover smart reasons to use self-storage facilities to make your life easier with our guide.

Cost Considerations for Storage Between Moves

Several variables impact storage prices:

• Location: City-center or high-demand areas cost more. Urban facilities charge a premium compared to suburban or rural locations.
• Size: Larger units cost more overall but offer lower per-square-foot rates.
• Unit Type & Amenities: Indoor, drive-up, or climate-controlled units are more expensive but may be worth it for fragile or sensitive items.
• Duration: Month-to-month gives flexibility, but long-term or prepaid contracts often come with discounts.

For a full breakdown of what you can expect to pay for self-storage, check out our guide on self-storage costs 2025.

Smart strategies to save

1. Use local storage near your new address
   If you’re moving across cities or states, storing your items near your new home can save you from paying high transport fees twice

   Stuf Storage locations are strategically placed in central, accessible neighborhoods, making this a practical option for new arrivals.

2. Choose flexible, no-lock-in storage options
   Avoid overpaying by choosing providers that offer month-to-month rental options with no long-term contracts or exit penalties

3. Pack smart to avoid renting a larger unit
   Efficient packing, like using stackable boxes and disassembling furniture, allows you to fit everything into a smaller, more affordable unit.

4. Reserve online in advance when possible
   Reserving a storage unit online (especially mid-week or mid-month) can lock in lower rates. At Stuf, you can view availability and secure a unit instantly, avoiding the stress of calling around during an already chaotic time.

5. Leverage promotions for new movers
   Some storage companies offer discounts for first-time customers or referral bonuses, especially during slower seasons

When Should I Book a Storage Unit for My Move?

It’s best to book your storage between moves as early as possible. This gives you better availability, more size options, and often, lower rates. Even a week or two of lead time can make a difference in securing affordable and convenient storage and moving arrangements.

That said, we also understand that not every move goes according to plan. So look for facilities that offer prorated pricing or allow for easy extensions without penalties.

Packing Tips for Temporary Storage Between Moves

Packing for temporary storage between house moves requires a different mindset than preparing for long-term storage. You’re likely to need access to your belongings sooner and may need to unpack quickly once your new home is ready.

Here are practical, mover-specific tips to streamline the process and protect your items in short-term storage:

• Label by room and priority
  Label boxes by room and how soon you’ll need them (e.g. “Kitchen – Daily Use” vs. “Kitchen – Backup”). This helps during both storage access and unpacking after the move.

• Pack items in stackable, moisture-resistant bins
  Compared to cardboard, plastic storage bins are better for stacking, less likely to collapse, and protect against moisture.

• Keep essentials easy to grab
  Pack a box with everyday items, like chargers, toiletries, or tools, and place it near the front of your unit. Think “first in, last out.” It’ll save you from digging around when you’re between places.

• Avoid over-sealing and vacuum bags
  Use just enough tape to secure boxes and skip vacuum sealing unless necessary. They’re better for long-term storage and can make quick access difficult.

• Don’t fill to the brim
  Leave a little space in each box for adjustments. Overstuffed containers are harder to repack, more prone to tearing, and tougher to stack inside a small storage space

How to Choose the Right Size for Storage Between Moves

Choosing the correct storage unit size during a move can save you both time and money. Here’s a straightforward guide to help you estimate what size you actually need:

1. Take inventory first
   Before looking at unit dimensions, list what you plan to store. Include large items like beds, couches, appliances, and boxes. This helps you avoid under- or overestimating your space requirements.

2. Match your load to unit categories
   Most storage and moving companies classify units into standard sizes. At Stuf Storage, you can choose from several sizing options:

   • Small units (3x5 to 5x10): Ideal for boxes, clothing, suitcases, small shelving units, and a few small furniture items.
   • Medium units (6x10 to 10x10): Ideal for bed frame, mattress, sofa, small dining set, appliances, and multiple boxes.
   • Large units (10x15 to 10x20): Ideal for multiple beds, couches, cabinets, large boxes, and garage contents.

3. Use an online size estimator
   Many storage providers offer digital tools or visuals that help you visualize what fits in each unit.

4. Plan for accessibility
   If you’ll need access to your items during the storage period, go one size up. It gives you room to create walking space or store items in a way that keeps essentials reachable.

5. Factor in your moving timeline
   If your move involves multiple trips or staggered packing, a slightly larger unit makes loading and unloading much easier.

For more tips on how to choose the right self-storage unit for your moving needs, check out our guide on the best features to look for in storage units.

FAQs

• How long should I rent a storage unit if I’m between homes?
  Most movers need storage for 2 to 6 weeks, which covers gaps caused by lease mismatches, settlements, or travel delays.

• Can my moving company deliver directly to the storage unit?
  Yes, many professional movers can deliver your belongings straight to your storage unit. Be sure to choose a unit with easy truck access and confirm with your movers in advance

• Is temporary storage secure?
  Stuf Storage offers 24/7 surveillance, gated access, and individual unit locks. Check for features like digital entry systems and climate control for added protection.

• Do I need insurance for my stored items?
  Yes. Some storage facilities require insurance, and your renters or homeowners policy may already offer coverage. If not, you can usually purchase storage insurance directly.

• What if I’m moving from out of town?
  Look for facilities that offer remote booking, digital check-in, and contactless entry. Some even allow you to assign access to your movers without being there in person.

Reserve Your Storage Space Before the Move

Moving is stressful but finding storage between moves doesn’t have to be. With the right unit, you can streamline your transition and protect your belongings without added hassle.

Stuf Storage offers secure, modern, and flexible storage solutions in convenient urban locations. With 24/7 access, climate-controlled units, and seamless online booking, they make moving and temporary storage easy, whether you're relocating across town or from another city.

Find the right unit for you now!