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Short Term Storage

Adele MacGregor

Written by Reviewed by Dave Sayce

14th Jan 2022 (Last updated on 23rd Feb 2024) 5 minute read

Short-term storage is ideal to use when moving house, renovating or even travelling.

Most commonly used for a few weeks or months, short-term storage could also be used for as little as a week.

Find reputable storage companies that offer short-term storage with Compare My Move.

  1. 15 Reasons to Use Short Term Storage
  2. Why Use Compare My Move to Find Short Term Storage?

15 Reasons to Use Short Term Storage

Here are some of the common reasons people use short-term storage.

1. Death of a Relative

A death in the family is the most common life event that people use storage for, according to Self Storage Association data.

Following the death of someone close, it can often feel too soon to sort through their belongings. In the immediate aftermath, a storage unit will make sure the items are kept safe until you are ready.

2. Moving House

17.0% of self-storage customers use the facilities when moving house, according to the SSA.

Short-term storage will allow you to keep your items out of the way if you’re in between homes temporarily.

To learn more, read moving house storage.

3. Travelling

If you’re travelling for a few months, you may want to consider using short-term storage for items you’re not taking with you. This is also useful for students or anyone who rents, as items can be stored during the time you are not renting.

4. Left Luggage

Useful for short city breaks, companies can offer short-term storage for your luggage. This allows you to enjoy your break without the hassle of transporting your suitcase everywhere. You'll know your personal belongings will be protected in the secure units.

5. Business Storage

Whether you are upscaling your business, starting out or between offices, short-term storage can be an asset. It can be used to store everything from office supplies and equipment to stock for an Etsy or eBay business.

To learn more, read business storage.

6. Student Storage

Whether you're between accommodation, going home during a break or studying abroad, short-term storage is ideal for students. As student rooms typically have a single bed, you'll roughly need a 50 sq. ft size unit.

To learn more, read student self-storage.

7. During a Divorce

Divorced or separated people are twice as likely to use self-storage. Storing your items during divorce proceedings can at least take the pressure off organising them. This allows you to take your time during this difficult period.

8. During Renovations

The SSA found that 20.3% of people used storage in 2022 because of home renovations. When renovating your house, it often isn’t practical to keep furniture and other possessions in other rooms whilst the work is being done. Short-term storage is ideal for keeping your items off-site and protected.

9. Downsizing Your Home

17.7% use storage because they're moving and don't have enough space in their new place. When downsizing your home and belongings, organising years of possessions can be emotional. It is also a time-consuming process. Keeping items in short-term storage allows you to take your time sorting through your possessions. It also means you can keep your items safe during the process of buying and selling.

10. Decluttering Your Home

30.3% of people use storage to create more space in their homes. Short-term storage allows you to keep belongings safe and out of your home until you have the time to decide what you are keeping. This can make you realise what you use regularly and what you miss having in your home. Once you return to the unit, the items you haven’t thought about or needed can then be sold or donated

11. Seasonal Items

Seasonal items like Christmas decorations or garden furniture are only used for short periods of the year. Storing seasonal items in short-term or even long-term storage is an ideal way to free up some space in your home. It also keeps them safe and free from damage.

12. Camping Gear

If you’re an avid camper, it’s likely you will have a large amount of camping equipment. If your home is too small to store your equipment, you may want to keep these items in storage between trips.

13. Collectable Items

Items like toys, figurines, music paraphernalia and sports memorabilia can take up a lot of room in a home. Short-term storage can be ideal for these items until you find a home for them long-term. You’ll also have peace of mind that your collectables are safe and secure with 24/7 CCTV too.

14. Hobby Equipment

Hobby gear can take up a lot of room and if it’s currently not being used, it can become a hindrance in the home. From painting supplies to large pieces of equipment, short-term storage facilities offer flexible size units to host these.

15. Furniture Storage

Large items like furniture are difficult to store in an attic and many people will donate or sell these items if they don’t have room. Hiring a unit for short-term furniture storage allows you to keep these items safe until you have found a place for them.

To learn more, read furniture storage.

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Why Use Compare My Move to Find Short Term Storage?

We work with storage companies across the UK to help with your short-term storage. Here’s why you should use us for your short-term storage needs.

Flexibility

Our storage partners offer flexibility, with both short and long-term storage options. Companies offer various sizes and many have the flexibility of accessing or collecting your items at any time.

Storage insurance

Our storage companies have Public Liability insurance, with many offering extra insurance for peace of mind. You’ll also have the opportunity to get your own insurance for your items if required.

Security

Our storage companies offer secure short-term storage solutions for your personal belongings. Their units will be monitored with a 24/7 CCTV security system.

Collection service

When you receive a quote for storage, this will be the price of the storage unit and won’t include the removals of the items. Many of our storage partners are also removal companies, so can offer a safe collection and drop-off service for your items.

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Adele MacGregor

Having worked at Compare My Move for over five years, Adele specialises in covering a range of surveying topics.

Dave Sayce

Reviewed by Dave Sayce

Owner & Managing Director, Compare My Move

Dave Sayce is the owner and managing director of Compare My Move and has over 10 years of experience in the house removals industry.

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