Long-Term Storage Tips

• Shop by location: Units in suburban or rural areas are often cheaper than in-city facilities. If you’re flexible, compare a few ZIP codes to find a sweet spot on price vs. drive time.
• Get the right size: Don’t overpay for empty space. Ask the facility for guidance on unit sizes or consider a portable container sized to your needs.
• Ask about discounts: Many facilities offer deals for prepaying, military and student discounts, or first-month promotions. Clarify when promo pricing ends.
• Confirm pricing policies: Month-to-month plans often see regular rent hikes. Ask how often rates change, typical increase amounts, and whether you can lock a rate for 6–12 months.

Not sure where to start? See our picks for the best self-storage companies and our guide to the best moving container companies if you want door-to-door service.

• Run the math: If 12 months of storage will cost more than replacing what’s inside, selling or donating could be the better move.
• Consider access needs: If you’ll need frequent access, choose a nearby facility with extended hours. If not, you can save by choosing a less central location.
• Account for life changes: Military deployments, remote assignments, or extended travel often justify longer-term storage and portable container options.
• Plan your exit: Long-term storage is easiest when you set a reminder to reassess every 3–6 months so you don’t pay for space you no longer need.

• Security standards: Look for gated access, camera coverage, strong lighting, and on-site staff. Ask about pest-control schedules and recent incidents.
• Climate control: Essential for electronics, wood furniture, photos, instruments, and important documents. It reduces risks from heat, cold, and humidity swings.
• Access and policies: Confirm hours, holiday closures, late fees, autopay requirements, and the process (and cost) to change unit sizes mid-term.
• Insurance and coverage: Facility policies cover the building, not your belongings. Check your renters/homeowners policy or buy a dedicated storage policy.
• Transparent pricing: Ask about admin fees, required locks, required insurance, and how often rates increase after the promo period. Get it in writing.

• Pack to last: Use sturdy boxes, quality tape, and breathable furniture covers. Avoid plastic wrap on wood or leather long-term; it traps moisture.
• Label and map: Label all sides and create a quick inventory. Leave an aisle so you can reach the back without unloading everything.
• Elevate and protect: Use pallets or shelving to keep items off the floor. Add desiccant packs or a dehumidifier rod for humidity-prone climates.
• Mind the climate: Choose climate control for electronics, instruments, photos, and antique woods to avoid warping or mildew.
• Know what’s banned: Most facilities prohibit food, fuel, fireworks, paint, and live plants. Violations can void your lease.
• Insure your items: Confirm coverage through your policy or buy facility-offered coverage. Learn more about moving and storage insurance.

• Prep the vehicle: Top off fluids, add fuel stabilizer, inflate tires, and clean thoroughly. If you’re storing cars, consider a battery tender and breathable cover.
• Choose the right space: Enclosed units protect finishes; outdoor lots are cheaper but expose the vehicles to weather.
• Check the rules: Many sites require current registration and insurance for stored vehicles.

• Book & lock the rate: Ask for a 6–12 month rate guarantee in writing if possible.
• Document inventory & value: Photograph all your items and keep receipts for high-value goods.
• Choose autopay + alerts: Enable autopay and set calendar reminders for rate reviews and policy renewals.
• Schedule check-ins: Inspect the unit every 60–90 days for leaks, pests, or shifting stacks.
• Plan the exit: Note notice periods and proration rules so you don’t pay for time you don’t use.

• Military families: Look for month-to-month leases, easy transfers, and military discounts. Portable containers can simplify PCS transitions.
• Students: Small or shared units near campus are budget-friendly. Summer-only promos are common, so ask about blackout dates.
• Retirees/snowbirds: Climate control protects furniture during seasonal travel. Autopay prevents lapses while you’re away.
• Traveling nurses/remote workers: Portable containers make sense if you’ll move again soon. See the best moving container companies.
• Small businesses: Ask about business access hours, delivery acceptance, loading docks, and shelving for inventory or files.

• Check your lease: Even sealed or canned goods are often prohibited in self-storage units. Violations can trigger fines or eviction.
• Store safely at home: Follow guidance from the USDA on safe food storage temperatures, rotation, and shelf life. See USDA’s emergency food safety guide at fsis.usda.gov.