How Can Self Storage Help Renters Between Leases?
Sep 4, 2026 / Public Storage
Self storage can help renters bridge the gap between leases by providing temporary space for furniture, boxes and household belongings until the next home is ready. With month-to-month rentals, renters can choose a unit based on their move timeline without committing to a long rental period.
Whether the gap lasts a few weeks or your plans are still changing, a little organization before move-in can make temporary storage easier to manage.
Key Takeaways
- Make an inventory before choosing a storage unit size.
- Keep anything you’ll need during the lease gap with you rather than packing it deep in storage.
- Label boxes by room and contents so they’re easier to find later.
- Consider Drive-Up Access when moving bulky furniture or multiple boxes.
- Climate-controlled storage may be worth considering for belongings that can react to changing temperature or humidity.
- Check access hours and storage features before renting.
What Size Storage Unit Do You Need Between Leases?
The amount of furniture and household belongings you’re storing will help determine the unit size you need.
| Unit Size | Approx. Space | May Work Well For |
| 5×5 | 25 sq. ft. | Boxes, seasonal items and small furniture |
| 5×10 | 50 sq. ft. | Furniture and belongings from a studio or single room |
| 10×10 | 100 sq. ft. | Furniture, appliances and belongings from multiple rooms |
| 10×15 | 150 sq. ft. | Larger furniture and belongings from about a two-bedroom home |
Use the Public Storage Size Guide to compare additional dimensions and approximate capacity before choosing a unit.
How Should You Pack for Temporary Storage?
When you know your belongings will be moving again soon, pack with the next move in mind.
Start by labeling each box with both its contents and destination room. Keep boxes containing belongings you might need during the transition near the front of your unit.
Place heavier boxes and larger furniture first, then arrange lighter boxes around them. If space allows, leave a walkway so you can reach belongings without unpacking the entire unit.
It can also help to create a simple inventory on your phone, so you know what went into storage and where you placed it.
Which Storage Features Can Help During a Move?
Different features can make temporary storage easier depending on your moving plans.
Drive-Up Access
Drive-Up Access allows you to pull your vehicle directly up to a ground-level storage unit for easier loading and unloading. More than 45% of Public Storage properties—2,200 of more than 4,600 locations—offer Drive-Up Access units.
Use Drive-Up Storage to learn more and check availability near you.
Climate-Controlled Storage
Climate-controlled units are designed to help maintain more consistent temperature or humidity levels than standard storage.
More than 90% of Public Storage properties—4,300 of more than 4,600 locations—offer climate-controlled units. Availability and features vary by facility.
Use Climate-Controlled Storage to compare nearby options.
24/7 Access
If moving schedules or work hours make standard access times difficult, 24/7 Access may provide additional flexibility.
Public Storage has more than 2,400 facilities with 24-hour access available. Check individual facility details because availability and requirements vary by location.
Learn more about 24/7 Storage Access.
How Can Self Storage Make a Lease Gap Easier?
A storage unit gives you one place to keep your household belongings while you wait for your next home.
Public Storage rentals are month-to-month, and customers can complete their rental online in minutes. Once you know the approximate size and features you need, compare nearby facilities based on current pricing and availability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I rent a storage unit for a short period between leases?
Yes. Public Storage rentals are month-to-month, which can work well when you need temporary storage during a move or lease transition.
What size storage unit is best for an apartment move?
It depends on how much you’re storing. A 5×10 provides about 50 square feet, while a 10×10 provides about 100 square feet and can accommodate belongings from multiple rooms.
Should I choose climate-controlled storage between leases?
Climate-controlled storage may be worth considering for belongings that can react to heat, cold or humidity. Features and availability vary by facility.
Can I access my storage unit outside standard hours?
Select Public Storage facilities offer 24/7 Access. More than 2,400 locations nationwide have 24-hour access available, but access options vary by property.
