Temporary storage for moving house: a step-by-step guide
Do you need temporary storage for your move?
During a move, an awkward situation often arises: your move-out and move-in dates don't match. You leave your old place on 30 June but don't get the keys to the new one until 15 July. Those 15 days need safe space for your things.
That is exactly what temporary storage for moving is: a service that lets you keep your belongings safe for as long as you need (days, weeks or months) while your move is completed.
When do you need temporary storage?
- A date gap (the most common): you move out before you can move into the new place.
- Renovations: you empty the house for works (typically 2-12 weeks).
- Delayed international moves: waiting for paperwork or the home to be ready (2-6 months).
- Job change or relocation: 1-2 months to find a home.
- Inheritances or bulky purchases.
- Separation or divorce: splitting belongings and storing them temporarily.
How much does temporary storage cost?
| Duration | Approx. price |
|---|---|
| 1-7 days | €50-150 |
| 1 month | €70-300 |
| 3 months | €200-800 |
| 6 months | €400-1,600 |
Prices vary with volume (m³), services included (transport, packing), city (Madrid and Barcelona 20-30% more), and facility type (climate control, 24/7 surveillance).
Real cost example
Moving a 3-bedroom flat with 1.5 months of storage in Madrid: transport €600-900 + storage 12 m³ × 1.5 months €200-350 + packing €150-250. Total: €950-1,500.
Advantages of temporary storage
- Staggered organisation: move gradually, no rush.
- Protection for your furniture: professional packing, climate control, 24/7 surveillance, insurance.
- More flexibility: access your items and remove them partially.
- A fix for logistics: no favours, no filling a relative's home with boxes.
- Peace of mind: a digital inventory of what you stored.
How it works: step by step
- Contact the company with dates and volume and ask for a quote.
- Receive the quote in detail (price per m³ and services).
- Sign the contract (ID, contact details, deposit).
- Collection from your home, with a detailed inventory.
- Secure storage in a climate-controlled facility with 24/7 surveillance.
- Access your things with 24-48h notice.
- Wrap-up with deposit return and contract closure.
Security and protection
Standard measures: 24/7 surveillance, restricted access, alarm systems, humidity and temperature control, and included insurance. Before booking, ask about the type of surveillance, insurance cover (theft, damage, fire) and whether there is a limit or charge for access.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not measuring volume properly: calculate real m³ (height × width × depth / 1,000).
- Leaving transport out of the budget: ask for an all-inclusive price.
- Not taking out insurance: €8-15/month that protects you from losses.
- Storing dangerous items: ask what is allowed.
- Not checking the inventory: document each box with photos/video.
- Choosing on price alone: compare, read reviews and prioritise security.
Temporary storage vs other options
| Option | Cost (3 months) | Security | Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Professional temporary storage | €200-800 | ★★★★★ | Coordinated |
| Self-storage | €200-300 | ★★★ | Frequent |
| Furniture storage | €250-900 | ★★★★★ | Limited |
| A friend's / family's home | €0-200 | ★★ | Depends |
Frequently asked questions
What's the minimum time I can store my things?
Usually a minimum of 1 week or 1 month, though some companies allow from 1 day.
Can I remove items mid-storage?
Yes, with 24-48h notice.
Is the facility climate-controlled?
Most are, especially for quality furniture. Ask specifically.
Temporary storage without the stress
We collect, store and return your things wherever you say. Get your quote online in 2 minutes.
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