Short-Term vs. Long-Term Storage: What’s Right for You?

Short-term storage is the perfect option for those in-between moments in life when you need to store your things but not for too long. Think of it as a temporary home for your belongings, ideal for anything from a few weeks to several months.

Common Reasons for Using Short-Term Storage

• Moving or relocating: Short-term storage is ideal if you’re in between homes or waiting for your new place to be ready to move in.
• Home renovations: If you’re renovating or remodeling your home, storing furniture and other valuables can keep them safe from dust, debris and accidental damage.
• Life changes: Short-term storage can be helpful when adjusting to major life events like marriage, retirement, inheritance and other scenarios.
• Student storage: If you’re a student, you may just need storage space for the summer or a study abroad term so you don’t have to haul your belongings back to your parent’s home.
• Seasonal storage: For things you occasionally use — like holiday decorations, patio furniture and camping gear — short-term storage can free up valuable space in your home storage areas.

Long-term storage is great when you’re looking to stow items securely for the long haul. From preserving furniture and family heirlooms to keeping business inventory safe, long-term storage is designed to provide a stable environment for belongings you won’t need access to anytime soon.

Common Reasons for Using Long-Term Storage

• Extended travel: If you’re traveling for a work trip, fellowship, military deployment, studying abroad or even pleasure, long-term storage can keep your valuables secure until you’re back.
• Downsizing: Moving into a smaller space? Store the items that won’t fit in your new home in a long-term storage unit.
• Retirement: Whether you’re downsizing or traveling after you retire, a long-term storage unit can hold the items you don’t need 24/7. 
• Hobby Storage: Enthusiasts and collectors of items like vintage cars and antiques can use storage units — which are climate-controlled — to protect valuables.
• Business inventory: Many small businesses use long-term storage to keep inventory, equipment, and documents that don’t fit in their main office or space.
• Making space at home: If your home is getting cluttered, moving some items into long-term storage can free up space without forcing you to part with what’s important to you.
• Seasonal rotations: For those with seasonal wardrobes, outdoor gear or holiday decor, long-term storage lets you keep items out of sight and out of the way.

If you’re struggling to decide between short-term and long-term storage, the good news is that most self-storage facilities — including SmartStop — offer flexible, month-to-month rentals, so you’re not locked into a long-term commitment. That means you can start with a short-term plan and easily transition to long-term storage if your needs change.

In fact, we encourage you to avoid self-storage companies that lock you into a long-term agreement, even if they promise a discount. A month-to-month agreement gives you the flexibility to move out of your storage unit or change the size of your unit throughout the year. This is especially convenient if you’re not sure how long you’ll need the extra storage space or whether you’ll need a smaller/bigger unit over time.

If you think you may gradually add more items over time, consider opting for a slightly larger unit up front. Similarly, if your storage needs are likely to decrease, you can always downsize to a smaller unit — or even a storage locker — without any hassle. You can use our Size Guide or head to a local facility to get a tour of different unit types if you’re not sure what size you need.

Storage facilities typically offer a range of unit amenities, including climate control, ground-floor/drive-up units and more. We’ll explain how to pick the right one based on whether you’re storing things for short- or long-term periods. 

Climate-Controlled Units

If you’re only storing things for a short time, a standard unit — as opposed to an air-cooled or climate-controlled unit — may be just fine, especially if you’re storing items that don’t need strict temperature control.

For sensitive items like electronics, artwork or wooden furniture, a climate-controlled unit is well worth it for maintaining the right temperature and humidity levels year-round. We also recommend using extra protection when you’re packing items for long-term storage, like airtight plastic bins to keep out dust and pests.

Ground-Floor and Drive-Up Units

Storage facilities offer a mix of ground-floor units (some with drive-up access) and units that require elevator access. Deciding between the two basically boils down to how frequently you’ll need to access your items. 

For short-term storage, ground-floor or drive-up units are ideal — they offer quick, easy access, making them perfect for frequent trips in and out, such as when you’re in the middle of a move or renovation. 

For long-term storage, units with elevator access can often be a more economical choice, especially if you’re storing items you only plan on accessing occasionally. While they may require a bit more effort to load, these units typically offer the same security and protection at a lower rate.

Outdoor Parking vs. Indoor Units

If you’re storing an RV, boat or car for a short period of time (i.e., in the off-season), an outdoor parking spot — either covered or uncovered — can be a convenient and affordable choice. Since the vehicle won’t be sitting idle for long, a basic outdoor space should provide adequate protection from the elements, as long as you keep it covered and follow basic winterization practices.

For longer storage periods or for vintage/classic cars, climate-controlled indoor units provide the best protection from the wind, rain, snow and sun. Indoor units safeguard against temperature fluctuations, moisture and damage from weather or pests.

How you organize your storage unit can make a huge difference, especially depending on whether you’ll need frequent access to your belongings or just want them safe and out of the way.

Short-Term Storage

For short-term storage, prioritize accessibility. Place any items you’ll need to access frequently near the front of your unit. Keep things like your bike, seasonal clothing, important documents or smaller furnishings within reach to save you from having to rearrange your items constantly.

Don’t forget to label your boxes clearly with the contents and make sure they’re easily visible (clear plastic bins can help you identify items more easily as well).

Long-Term Storage

Since long-term storage usually involves fewer trips to the unit, place items you won’t need often toward the back. Arrange boxes from heaviest to lightest, with heavier items on the bottom to prevent damage. Using shelving units to keep items organized and off the floor can also help protect your belongings from dust, moisture and pests. If shelving isn’t an option, even placing items on pallets can be a good idea.

For items that may be sensitive to temperature, moisture or pests, consider additional protective measures such as sealed containers, plastic covers and bubble packs.

Ready to find a short-term or long-term storage unit? Head to our Storage Locator to find a facility near you.