Moving Into Storage: What to Keep in Mind
At Safe Responsible Movers, we’ve helped thousands of Boston-area residents move their belongings into storage units of every size and type. Whether you’re downsizing, renovating, or just clearing space, a little preparation goes a long way toward keeping your move smooth and stress-free. Before your moving day, here are a few key things to keep in mind when hiring movers to move your belongings into storage.
1. Know the Storage Facility’s Access Hours
Not all storage facilities are open around the clock. Some only allow access when the on-site office is open—often between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. on weekdays, with reduced hours or full closures on weekends. Others provide gate access codes that allow entry from around 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Before scheduling your movers, double-check when you’ll actually be able to access your storage unit. If your crew arrives after hours, they won’t be able to unload the truck, which can result in rescheduling delays or additional charges. Confirm access times ahead of time, especially if your move is happening in the evening or on a weekend.
2. Confirm Elevator Access
If your storage unit is located on an upper floor, make sure the elevator is operational and accessible during your move. Some facilities have freight elevators that require an employee to operate them—meaning you might need to plan around their availability. If the elevator isn’t working, movers will need to carry everything up or down stairs, and that can incur an extra labor charge.
We recommend calling your storage facility a few days in advance to confirm that all elevators are in good working order and that the loading area is clear for trucks. A short call can prevent long delays on move day.
3. Understand Blanket and Material Costs
Professional movers use thick moving blankets to protect your furniture from scratches, scuffs, and dust. But when your items are being placed in storage, those blankets can’t always come back with the crew. Many moving companies charge a rental or replacement fee—sometimes up to $30 per blanket—if their pads remain with your items. You can order blankets from vendors like Harbor Freight or Home Depot
If you’re planning to keep your belongings in storage for an extended period, consider purchasing your own moving blankets, stretch wrap, and covers in advance. Your movers can still do all the wrapping for you; you’ll just save money over the long term while ensuring your items stay protected the whole time.
4. Label and Organize Thoughtfully
Storage units can quickly turn into puzzles if items aren’t organized. Label boxes on multiple sides and group similar items together—kitchenware with kitchenware, books with books, and so on. Ask your movers to load heavier items on the bottom and lighter ones on top, leaving access paths so you can reach important things later without unloading the entire unit.
5. Choose a Reliable Moving Company
Not every mover has experience handling storage moves. When you’re moving into storage, your items may sit for months or even years, so packing quality matters. At Safe Responsible Movers, we take the time to ensure every piece is wrapped, stacked, and secured properly for long-term storage. With nearly two decades of experience, 5-star reviews on Google and Yelp, and an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau, we’ve earned our reputation as Boston’s most trusted moving company.
Whether you’re moving into a small self-storage unit in West Roxbury or a large climate-controlled facility in Watertown, we’ll make sure your belongings are handled safely from start to finish.
Final Thoughts
Planning ahead for access hours, elevator availability, and packing materials can save you time, money, and stress. When in doubt, give your movers and storage facility a quick call before moving day to confirm all the details. With the right preparation—and a reliable team like Safe Responsible Movers—your storage move can be smooth, efficient, and completely worry-free.