Table of Contents
- Who needs short-term storage?
- What unit sizes are best for short-term storage needs?
- What are the typical prices of short-term storage rentals?
- Storage Facility Features & Amenities You’ll Want
- Is short-term vehicle storage available?
- Other Considerations to Make
- Ready to Rent Temporary Storage? Let’s Get Started.
There are many times when we need a temporary storage solution. But, in many of these cases, we often don’t have a lot of lead time to search for storage options.
So, let Storage Star help you with your short-term storage needs. Our guide will walk you through when you may need short-term storage, what features to look for, what unit size may be best, and typical pricing of these recommended sizes.
Who needs short-term storage?
Short-term storage is beneficial for many people, particularly those navigating temporary transitions, limited space, or life changes. When should you consider a short-term storage unit?
Moving or Relocating: There are so many instances when you need extra space during a move. Your house closing has taken a bit longer than expected, or the sellers need to do some last-minute repairs. Instead of stressing and rescheduling a mover, you can quickly stash your belongings in a storage unit.
During a Renovation: A self-storage unit can temporarily house your belongings when remodeling.
Between Semesters: Small storage units are great for summer storage.
Studying Abroad: If you’re spending the semester abroad or are moving for an internship, you can store items in a small unit.
Post Break-Up or Divorce: Don’t make your move post-break-up as messy as your last relationship was. Temporary storage solutions are ideal for housing your items until you have time to attend to them. Focus on yourself, finding a new place, and settling in before dealing with furniture and boxes.
Military deployment
Transition Between Offices: If you’re moving offices - or renovating yours - a storage unit is great for business storage purposes.
Seasonal Storage: Use a short-term solution for seasonal outdoor gear (such as skis, jet skis, or motorcycles) or holiday decorations.
Post-Emergency or Disaster: If you’re temporarily displaced by fire, flood, repairs, or other disasters, a month-to-month storage unit is a beneficial and affordable option.
What unit sizes are best for short-term storage needs?
The best unit sizes for temporary storage will depend on what you’re storing and if you’ll keep the unit for long-term storage. These are the most commonly recommended sizes:
5x5 Storage Units: These 25-square-foot units are equivalent to a small closet. They’re ideal for boxes, seasonal items, small furniture, and luggage. They’re great for student storage, while painting or renovating a room, or for seasonal gear.
5x10 Storage Units: These 50 square foot “walk-in closet” sized units can hold the contents of a studio apartment, a mattress set, and small appliances. Rent a 5x10 when you’re between apartments, renovating, or in temporary housing.
10x10 Storage Units: Equivalent to half a garage, these 100-square-foot units hold the contents of a one-bedroom apartment. We recommend a 10x10 unit when moving, storing your personal belongings, or staging a home.
10x15 Storage Units: These 150-square-foot units can accommodate the contents of a 2-3 bedroom home, including bulky furniture and outdoor equipment. 10x15s are great when moving between offices, undergoing a complete home renovation, or relocating to a new home after a breakup or divorce.
For most temporary storage needs between 1-3 months, a 5x10 or a 10x10 is the most practical choice. If you’re unsure of what storage unit size is best for you, use our handy size guide. If time allows, we also recommend touring a facility before signing for your storage rental. You’ll be able to see the unit IRL before deciding if it’s the right size for your stuff.
What are the typical prices of short-term storage rentals?
The price of a storage unit depends on the location of the storage facility, the type of unit, facility features and amenities, and the time of year. Here’s a quick snapshot of storage space pricing at Storage Star in June 2025:
| Location | Unit Size | Features | Price |
| Sacramento, CA | 5x10 | Elevator Access, Climate-Controlled | $179/month |
| Sacramento, CA | 10x10 | Ground Floor, Climate-Controlled | $208/month |
| Denver, CO | 5x10 | Elevator Access, Climate-Controlled | $38/month |
| Denver, CO | 10x10 | Elevator Access, Climate-Controlled | $75/month |
| Twin Falls, ID | 5x10 | Drive-Up, Non-Climate Controlled | $50/month |
| Twin Falls, ID | 10x10 | Drive-Up, Non-Climate Controlled | $79/month |
| Austin, TX | 5x10 | Drive-Up, Non-Climate Controlled | $27/month |
| Austin, TX | 10x10 | Drive-Up, Non-Climate Controlled | $80/month |
To make your storage rental even more affordable, be on the lookout for first-month promotions, such as $1 first month's rent. Inquire about other specials, such as military discounts.
We recommend finding temporary storage solutions that have month-to-month leases. These contracts are commitment-free, allowing you to store on your schedule. Ensure that you discuss lease terms with the storage facility's management team.
At Storage Star, all of our leases are month-to-month, so you will not be locked into paying for a unit longer than you need. You can obtain a free quote when you reserve a unit online, which will include your monthly charge, administrative fee, and any applicable promotions.
Storage Facility Features & Amenities You’ll Want
When searching for temporary storage units, you want to find a facility that has specific features. A few things you should be on the lookout for?
- State-of-the-art security, including video monitoring, gated access, and well-lit grounds
- Acceptance of all major credit cards
- Convenient and quick online bill pay and autopay options
- Moving supplies and boxes available to purchase directly at the facility
- Extended access hours, so you can move in and out on your schedule
- Easy online rentals for quick move-in
- On-site manager available during office hours to assist with your questions and storage needs
Also, check out the storage facility’s online reviews (Google is a great place to start!). Are people happy with the storage company? Are there any call-outs as to how the facility made the moving process easier and less stressful? Almost all storage facilities will have a Google Business Profile or reviews on Sparefoot, Yelp, or Facebook.
Is short-term vehicle storage available?
Yes! You may need temporary storage options for your extra vehicle, motorcycle, RV, or boat. Like regular storage units, temporary vehicle storage and vehicle parking options are available at more storage facilities.
Just remember to ask if the facility offers month-to-month leases on vehicle storage and parking spaces.
When weighing between temporary storage solutions, you’ll want to consider:
If you need covered or uncovered vehicle parking
If you prefer indoor RV storage or boat storage
If you have a premium or luxury vehicle that should be in climate control
Other Considerations to Make
When you’re making a quick decision to rent temporary storage, there are a few other items to take into consideration.
Proximity to a Storage Facility: While there are storage facilities all over the country, there are instances where one isn’t close by (or it’s hard to get to). In these instances, you may want to rent on-site storage options, such as pods. Portable storage containers can be delivered right to you.
There are some downsides to portable storage containers, though. Once your items are packed and hauled away, you won’t have access to them. Also, these containers may not be fully weather-resistant, and you do risk leaks, rust, or condensation. Plus, climate control is not available if your items need it.
Make sure to check with your neighborhood HOA or apartment complex if containers are allowed to sit in your driveway or on the street.
Hiring a Moving Company: Are you able to make the move to your storage unit yourself? Do you think you'll need to hire movers? Consider whether or not you need extra help to pick up your items.
Check out our 8 tips for successful same-day moving. Our guide will help make a quick move hassle-free and includes insight on finding and scheduling last-minute movers and helpers.
Ready to Rent Temporary Storage? Let’s Get Started.
No matter your situation, Storage Star has your back with flexible, short-term storage solutions. Our month-to-month leases, wide range of unit sizes, and top-notch facility features make it easy to store your belongings safely and stress-free, without locking you into a long-term commitment.
Use our online size guide to find the best fit, browse real-time availability, and take advantage of exclusive online promotions. Prefer to speak with someone? Our on-site managers are happy to help answer questions and guide you through the rental process.
Don’t let clutter or chaos slow you down. Find your perfect short-term storage unit at Storage Star today.
