At its core, relocation is getting your belongings from point A to point B. But what if you need some time and space in between? Storage services are a key moving resource to ensure your valuables are secure during your transition.
Some moving companies, like Bekins Van Lines, offer storage alongside their full-service moving services. So while you’re managing decluttering and new house layouts, you can have peace of mind that your belongings are safe. Here’s everything you need to know about using storage for your move.
Common Scenarios When Storage Makes Sense
You’ve packed up your house to move across the country, but your new home won’t be ready for another month. Maybe you’re waiting on renovations or a postponed closing date. A temporary living situation may not be equipped to handle all of your belongings at once. What you need is storage.
You can usually rent storage units, which vary in size, for as long as you need. Let’s say the pool table doesn’t fit in your new, smaller house, but you’re not ready to sell it. Or perhaps you need to store entire rooms for a few weeks while you stage the home for sale. Your moving coordinator will typically work out short- and long-term storage solutions to clear up clutter for as long as you need to.
Types of Storage Offered by a Full-Service Moving Company
Full-service moving companies aren’t just for packing and transportation. Bekins provides secure, clean and professionally managed short-term, long-term and storage in transit (SIT) storage solutions. And while exact offerings vary by moving company, here are some key storage types to consider:
Climate-controlled units: Artwork and electronics, for example, typically require dry, cool storage. Determine whether your potential company offers climate-controlled or standard units cooled by central air.- Short- and long-term units: When using a moving company’s storage resources, there may be a limit to the rental period. Ask your moving coordinator if they offer short-term and long-term storage solutions.
- Warehouse and container units: The moving company will likely offer either warehouse or containerized storage. Warehouse storage may offer less flexibility if you need to access your items, as the company stores everything in one warehouse, unlike container storage, which is more private and convenient for the renter.
Benefits of Using a Moving and Storage Service Together
Moving is stressful, so you’ll want to streamline the job as much as possible. By hiring a full-service moving and storage company like Bekins, you’re not juggling multiple vendors at once and getting lost in the process. Partnering with your moving company on storage grants you efficient coordination with a single provider.
Plus, with fewer transfers and points of contact, you’ll have better inventory tracking and accountability—not to mention peace of mind that your priceless belongings are receiving specialized care. With everything managed under one roof, storage is one less daunting task on your to-do list.
How the Process Works with Bekins Van Lines
When you choose Bekins as your moving partner, the process begins with an initial consultation with an agent who will work with you to create a customized storage plan. On moving day, the team will arrive to professionally pack and load your belongings using their extensive training, equipment and proper packing supplies.
Because Bekins is ProMover certified, the movers will safely handle all furniture, personal belongings and specialty items with care and respect. They’ll securely transport everything to the storage facility and unload with expertise.
If this is a short-term storage solution, our team will also schedule a delivery to the new location when it’s ready. But don’t feel like you need to stick to a rigid timeline. Want some time to transition into the house before being bombarded with moving boxes? We’re flexible about changing timelines.
When NOT to Use Moving Storage
Not every move requires storage, though. Perhaps you’re only moving to a different unit in your current apartment complex or it’s a local move that can be completed in one day. In those ultra-local cases, direct delivery may be faster and more cost-effective than renting storage. If you’re not quite sure about the best plan for your relocation, a Bekins representative would be happy to help sort out potential storage options.
Why Choose Bekins for Storage and Moving?
Don’t take moving help lightly. Bekins has over 130 years of trusted moving experience and thousands of recommendations for every type of relocation. Even if you’re moving across the country, our nationwide agent network is ready to assist. Our expertise in both short- and long-distance moves makes us an ideal partner. Get in touch with a local agent for a free estimate.
Bekins takes care of life’s memories, not just belongings. Whether you’re storing your children’s cribs or antiques, we highly recommend storage for flexibility, peace of mind and protecting your valuables. Planning a move with uncertain timing? Use our secure storage facilities and reliable coordination as part of your full-service moving plan. Contact us today to get started.
