How Much Does It Cost to Store Household Furniture?

When moving, downsizing, or renovating, storing your furniture can be a practical solution. But how much does it cost to put house furniture in storage? The answer depends on several factors, including the size of your unit, the duration of storage, and the type of furniture you're storing. Let's delve into the costs and other aspects of furniture storage.

Before we explore the costs, it's essential to understand the different types of storage units available. The two primary options are self-storage units and portable storage containers. Self-storage units are traditional storage spaces you rent from a facility, while portable storage containers bring the storage to your doorstep.

Self-Storage Units

Self-storage units are a popular choice for furniture storage due to their accessibility and flexibility. They come in various sizes, from small 5x5 units to large 10x20 units, accommodating everything from a few items to an entire house's worth of furniture.

The cost of a self-storage unit is typically quoted on a monthly basis and varies by location, unit size, and features. On average, you can expect to pay between $50 to $200 per month for a unit. Here's a breakdown of average monthly costs for different unit sizes:

• 5x5 unit (25 sq. ft.): $50 - $100
• 5x10 unit (50 sq. ft.): $70 - $150
• 10x10 unit (100 sq. ft.): $100 - $200
• 10x15 unit (150 sq. ft.): $120 - $250
• 10x20 unit (200 sq. ft.): $150 - $300

Additional Costs and Fees

Besides the monthly rental fee, there may be additional costs and fees to consider:

Security Deposit: Many storage facilities require a security deposit, usually equal to one month's rent.

Insurance: While not always required, it's highly recommended to insure your stored belongings. The facility's insurance typically doesn't cover your items, and your homeowners or renters insurance may not either. Insurance can cost between $10 to $50 per month, depending on the coverage and value of your items.

Moving and Loading Fees: Some facilities may charge a fee for using their dollies or carts, while others may offer them for free. If you need help moving your furniture into the unit, consider hiring professional movers, which can add to the overall cost.

Long-Term Storage Discounts

Many storage facilities offer discounts for long-term rentals. If you anticipate needing storage for an extended period, ask about discounts for six months or a year of storage. Some facilities may also offer discounts for paying multiple months upfront.

Additionally, some facilities may have promotions or special offers for new customers, such as the first month free or a discounted rate for the initial months of storage.

Portable Storage Containers

Portable storage containers, also known as moving and storage containers, bring the storage to your doorstep. A container is delivered to your location, you load your furniture into it, and then it's taken to a secure storage facility. This option can be convenient, especially if you have a lot of furniture or prefer not to drive to a storage facility.

The cost of portable storage containers typically includes delivery, pick-up, and storage at a facility. Prices vary by container size, duration of storage, and location. On average, you can expect to pay between $150 to $300 for the initial delivery and loading, plus $100 to $200 per month for storage.

Container Sizes

Portable storage containers usually come in two sizes:

16 ft. container (approximately 1,200 cubic feet): This size is suitable for storing the contents of a 2-3 bedroom home or an apartment.

20 ft. container (approximately 1,500 cubic feet): This larger size can accommodate the furniture and belongings of a 3-4 bedroom home.

Additional Costs and Fees

Like self-storage units, portable storage containers may have additional costs and fees:

Security Deposit: Some portable storage companies may require a security deposit, usually equal to one month's rent.

Insurance: Similar to self-storage units, it's recommended to insure your stored belongings in a portable storage container. Insurance can cost between $10 to $50 per month, depending on the coverage and value of your items.

Loading and Unloading Fees: Some portable storage companies may charge additional fees for loading and unloading your furniture into the container. Others may include this service in their price.

When considering the cost of furniture storage, remember to factor in additional expenses such as insurance, moving help, and any promotional discounts. Obtain quotes from multiple storage facilities and portable storage companies to compare prices and find the best option for your needs and budget.

In the end, the cost of storing your furniture is an investment in the convenience and flexibility of having your belongings safe and accessible when you need them. Whether you're moving, renovating, or simply need extra space, understanding the costs and options for furniture storage can help you make an informed decision and plan accordingly.