Moving is always a hassle but necessary if you need to relocate for work, want a fresh start somewhere else or want a different home. We go through this rite of passage, which comes with packing.
What if you need a temporary storage place for your stuff? Timing doesn’t always work out, and you must find a place to house your items before you move into your next residence, which can make you panicky.
Are you looking for solutions? Here are some great storage ideas when moving homes.
Keep Your Stuff with a Friend
Your friends would do anything for you, right? While they will lend you money or drive you to an appointment, storing household items is another thing. This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t ask, though.
You can plead your case if they have a large shed, an empty garage or an unused basement. You can also have a viable storage area to keep your items safe.
Portable Storage Containers
Many people use portable storage containers when moving because it makes sense. All you have to do is arrange for a container to be dropped off at your place a week before moving day. Then, load it up at your leisure. Then call the company to pick it up and deliver it to your new residence.
Most of these companies also offer short—and long-term storage of your filled container at their facilities. This is a real game changer because you are the only ones who have access to your container, even while it is stored on their premises. Then, when you are ready to receive the container at your new place, it can be delivered right away.
While under their care, your container is kept in a secure, temperature-controlled building. This is the best solution for the need of:
- Storage between moves
- Downsizing items you don’t have room
- Extended stays like travelling
Hit Up Family
Like your friends, family members are usually there for you. If you need a temporary storage solution, ask them to help.
Any usable space that accommodates household belongings can be stored in the short term. However, respect their generosity and leave as soon as you can.
Rent a Storage Unit
There are lots of storage units in your city that you can rent as long as you need them. These come in a variety of sizes and are typically month-to-month rentals. You will need a truck to haul big, bulky items to the facility.
Depending on the location of your storage unit, haul it in on carts and use elevators to gain access to your particular unit(s). Some places are outside units where you can drive right up, and these typically have secure fencing and passcode access to get inside.
Lease an Unused Warehouse Unit
If you have warehouses in your local area and some are not rented, this could be the solution you need. Most warehouse owners are looking for long-term tenants to lease their units out. If they have a few empty units, they may be willing to rent one to you for a short stay.
These business owners want to make money, so call them and ask if they are willing to give you a fair price to store your personal belongings for whatever your requirements are. They may see an opportunity for income and take you on.
Buy a Used Container
There is a growing market for shipping containers, which people use for storage on their property. If you need a temporary solution to keeping your stuff high and dry, consider buying a new or used container.
While this will be an expense, storage containers can be an asset long after you move into your house. You can even rent them out to someone else in need. If you play your cards right, this investment can become passive income.
Farmer’s Barn
Do you live in a rural area? This could be the answer to your prayers for a temporary storage solution.
Check out your local area or the community you plan to move to. If there are any secure barns, approach the owner and see if they will allow you an area inside to store your items. They may have the space and want to make some side income, making it a win/win for everyone.
Now you have options, so decide which works best for your situation. In the end, you will be able to keep your household safe and in a safe place until you move to a new residence. After that, you’ll get your belongings inside to live out your next chapter in life