What people ask us most when we talk about storage units is how much they really cost, what you sign and whether they're worth it for a few months. In Madrid, a storage unit costs between €25/month (1-2 m²) and €450/month (10-15 m²), plus a deposit and, often, separate insurance. Here are the questions that help most with deciding, grouped by topic.
In short
- Price: €25-65/month for 1-2 m² and €70-160 for 3-5 m². Compare the final price with VAT.
- Deposit: normally one month; the law allows up to two.
- “First month free” promotions usually come with a minimum term of 2 to 6 months.
- For 2-3 months without going in for your things, a home service usually works out better.
How much does a storage unit cost in Madrid?
It depends on size and area: between €25/month for 1-2 m² and €450/month for 10-15 m². The average price in Madrid city is around €20-25 per m² a month, and 14-18 on the outskirts (Móstoles, Alcorcón, Getafe). Climate-controlled storage units add another €15-25/month. These are ranges from companies in the sector in 2025-2026.
| Size | Range in Madrid | What fits |
|---|---|---|
| 1-2 m² | €25-65/month | Suitcases, boxes, a bike |
| 3-5 m² | €70-160/month | The contents of a room or a studio |
| 6-10 m² | €150-300/month | A whole small flat |
| 10-15 m² | €260-450/month | A 2-3 bedroom flat |
Ranges from MejorTrastero, Trasteros Cerca de Mí and Tu Trastero.
Why is the “from” price never the final one?
Because the ad shows the rent for the smallest unit on a welcome offer. On top of the real price come the deposit, insurance if it isn't included, sometimes extended access and, almost always, 21 % VAT. Ask for the total amount for the first month in writing before signing.
What should you check before signing the contract?
That everything is in writing: the final price with VAT, the minimum term, what the insurance covers, the real access and how to terminate. What causes the most grief is what isn't asked. If they won't put it in writing, that's a bad sign. Take photos of the initial condition and have both parties sign them: it saves arguments when you ask for your deposit back.
- Minimum term and penalty: ask how many months the promotion ties you in for and what happens if you cancel early.
- Insurance: the storage centre covers the building, not your contents. Confirm whether it's included and what the excess is.
- Access: normal hours are usually wide (8:00-22:00); 24/7 is a paid option.
- Termination: the usual notice is 15 to 30 days, in writing; some require a burofax.
How much deposit can they ask me for?
The Urban Leases Act (LAU) allows up to two months' rent when the use isn't housing, as with a storage unit. In practice, according to Box2Box, most operators in Madrid ask for one and some don't ask for a deposit on the basic plan.
What's the catch with promotions?
Offers like “first month free” usually come with a minimum term of 2 to 6 months. If you leave earlier, they can charge you the full rate for the promotional months, according to Almazen.
What can and can't you store in a storage unit?
Almost anything dry and non-hazardous: furniture, appliances, clothes, books, bikes, sports equipment and moving boxes. You can't store flammable materials, explosives or toxic chemicals; fresh food, live plants or pet food; waste; or mouldy items or wet clothes. Contracts usually spell this out in a specific clause.
What security and insurance does a storage unit have?
Security varies a lot: from an individual lock and cameras only in common areas to 24/7 surveillance, alarm and code access. Visit the premises or ask for photos. Insurance is usually separate: according to Trasteros Cerca de Mí, covering up to €3,000 of contents costs €8-12/month and up to €6,000, €15-20/month.
For furniture, the usual recommendation is a relative humidity of no more than 50-55 % and a stable temperature of around 18-20 °C.
Is a storage unit worth it for just 2-3 months?
If you'll go in from time to time and have a way to move a van, yes. If your things will sit stored without you touching them, almost certainly not: the storage unit was designed as an ongoing monthly rental, not a service for a few months. A 3 m² at about €70/month is €280 over four months, plus deposit, insurance and the van trips back and forth.
The home alternative: 3 m² for 16 weeks, with a lift, is €356 (free pick-up, 4 × €89 and free final delivery), with basic insurance included and no minimum term. If you're a student storing a room for the summer, there's the per-box rate from €45 to €33 with a one-off payment.
Frequently asked questions
How much does a 1-2 m² storage unit cost in Madrid?
Between €25 and €65/month depending on area and operator. Check that the price includes 21 % VAT.
What hidden costs does a storage unit have?
The most common: the deposit (normally one month), out-of-hours access, insurance if it isn't included and the penalty if you leave early.
How much notice do I have to give if I leave?
The usual notice is 15 to 30 days, in writing. Check the contract: some require a burofax or certified mail.
Is a storage unit worth it for just 2-3 months?
If you won't be going in for your things, usually not: you pay rent, deposit, insurance and transport. A service with home pick-up usually works out better.
To compare at your leisure: furniture storage or storage unit and how much furniture storage costs.