When and How to Use a Storage Unit During Your Move
When You Actually Need Storage
The most common scenarios: your move-out and move-in dates don't align, you're downsizing and need time to decide what to keep, you're renovating before moving in, or you're staging a home for sale and need to remove excess furniture. Before committing to storage, honestly evaluate whether you actually need those items - sometimes the monthly storage fee exceeds the replacement cost of the stored items.
Choosing the Right Unit Size
Boxes, seasonal items, small furniture pieces.
1-bedroom apartment contents.
2-bedroom apartment or small house.
3-bedroom house contents.
4+ bedroom house or including vehicles.
Packing for Long-Term Storage
Use uniform-sized boxes that stack efficiently. Place heavier boxes on the bottom, lighter on top. Leave a center aisle so you can access items without unpacking everything. Wrap upholstered furniture in breathable cotton covers (never plastic, which traps moisture and promotes mold). Place pallets or 2×4 boards under items to keep them off the concrete floor, which can transfer moisture upward.
Climate Control: Do You Need It?
If you're storing wood furniture, electronics, artwork, musical instruments, leather goods, or important documents for more than 30 days, climate-controlled storage is worth the extra 20–30% cost. Ontario's extreme temperature swings (−25°C winters to +35°C summers) can crack wood, warp records, damage electronics, and cause mold growth in standard units.
