Should You Get a Storage Unit During Your Move? Pros, Cons & Costs

Moving can be a logistical juggling act — timelines rarely line up perfectly, unexpected delays occur, and sometimes you find yourself with nowhere to put your stuff. That’s where a storage unit comes in. But is renting one really worth it during your move? In this article, we’ll break down the pros, cons, and real costs of using a storage unit while relocating. Whether you’re staging your home for sale, waiting for your new place to be ready, or just trying to stay organized, storage can play a key role in your move.

Why You Might Need Storage During a Move

There are several common scenarios that make a storage unit a smart solution during the moving process:

• Closing dates don’t align: You’ve sold your home but can’t move into the new one yet.
• Downsizing: You need time to sort, donate, or sell extra belongings.
• Long-distance relocation: You’re moving out of state and want to travel light at first.
• Temporary housing: You’re staying in an Airbnb, hotel, or with relatives until your new home is ready.
• Home staging: You want to declutter your home before putting it on the market.

Companies like Pack it Up Moving & Storage often provide combined moving and storage solutions, helping you simplify logistics by keeping everything under one roof — literally.

Pros of Using a Storage Unit When Moving

Let’s look at some major advantages of using a storage unit during your move:

✅ Flexibility

You can move at your own pace. Store non-essentials first, keep items secure during delays, and retrieve everything when you’re settled.

✅ Decluttering

By storing rarely used items, your home becomes easier to clean, stage, and show — potentially increasing its selling price.

✅ Protection from Damage

Storing fragile or valuable items separately prevents them from getting damaged in the moving rush.

✅ Secure Environment

Most modern storage units have security features such as surveillance cameras, coded gate access, and climate control, protecting your belongings from theft and environmental damage.

✅ Less Stress

With items safely out of the way, moving day becomes more efficient and less chaotic.

When working with a full-service provider like Pack it Up Moving & Storage, the process is even easier. Their teams can pick up, store, and deliver your items when you’re ready.

Cons of Using a Storage Unit When Moving

Of course, there are a few downsides to consider:

❌ Additional Cost

Storage isn’t free. Even short-term rentals add to your overall moving expenses.

❌ Limited Access

Depending on the facility, you may only be able to access your items during business hours.

❌ Risk of Forgetting Items

If you store boxes without clearly labeling them, you might lose track of important items.

❌ Potential for Damage

Not all storage units are climate-controlled. Extreme heat, humidity, or freezing temperatures can damage furniture, electronics, or clothing. That’s why it’s essential to ask the right questions when choosing a storage provider — like whether the unit is indoor vs. outdoor, climate-controlled, and how secure the facility is.

How Much Does Storage Cost in 2025?

Storage costs vary based on location, unit size, amenities, and duration, but you can expect average prices to range between $75 and $350 per month. Smaller units (5’x5′) may run as low as $75/month for storing boxes and small furniture. A medium-sized unit (10’x10′) suitable for 2–3 rooms can cost around $150–$225/month, while larger units (10’x20′) needed for full homes can reach $300 or more monthly. Climate-controlled units typically cost 25%–50% more than standard storage, but they’re worth it if you’re storing electronics, artwork, wooden furniture, or delicate clothing.

Tip: Storage that’s bundled with your moving service may come at a discounted rate. Companies like Pack it Up Moving & Storage often provide secure, short-term storage as part of their full-service offerings — a smart and convenient choice for many movers.

Tips for Packing Items for Storage

Using a storage unit properly means packing your belongings the right way. Poor packing leads to damage, disorganization, and frustration.

Here are expert tips:

• Label every box clearly with contents and room destination.
• Use plastic bins for long-term storage to prevent moisture damage.
• Store items you’ll need soonest near the front.
• Disassemble furniture to save space and prevent breakage.
• Use moving blankets and bubble wrap for fragile items.

If you’re short on time or unsure how to protect certain items, consider hiring professional Packing Services in Atlanta GA. Experienced packers can save hours of labor and reduce the chance of damage — especially for delicate or valuable items.

When a Storage Unit Makes the Most Sense

Still unsure if storage is worth it? Here are the situations where a storage unit is clearly the right call:

• You’re downsizing and need time to sort or sell extra furniture.
• You’re in a temporary living situation without space for all your belongings.
• Your move-in date is delayed or uncertain.
• You’re relocating for work and don’t have a permanent residence lined up yet.
• You’re renovating your new home and want to keep items safe.

In these cases, a storage unit becomes more of a necessary tool than a luxury. The cost is justified by the convenience and peace of mind it provides.

Alternatives to Traditional Storage Units

If a traditional self-storage unit doesn’t seem ideal, consider these alternatives:

Portable Storage Containers

Companies drop off a container at your home, you fill it, and they store it or deliver it later. Ideal for flexible schedules.

Full-Service Storage

A moving company picks up your items, stores them in their secure warehouse, and redelivers them when needed — no lifting required.

Friends & Family

Temporarily storing items at someone’s home can save money but comes with space and liability limitations.

For most movers, the best solution is a combination of moving, packing, and storage services from a single provider like Pack it Up Moving & Storage — eliminating the need to coordinate across multiple vendors.

Conclusion: 

Using a storage unit during your move can reduce stress, protect your belongings, and give you time to transition smoothly — especially if you’re dealing with delays, downsizing, or staging a home for sale. While there are some added costs and logistical considerations, the flexibility and peace of mind are often well worth it. Just be sure to choose a secure facility, pack strategically, and use professional help when needed. If you’re planning a move in or around Georgia, Pack it Up Moving & Storage offers convenient, affordable storage solutions along with reliable Packing Services in Atlanta GA — making your move easier from start to finish.