Storage Unit Moving Guide: Loading, Unloading & Transfers

Whether you're putting items into storage, pulling them out, or transferring between facilities, doing it efficiently saves time, money, and back pain. Here's everything you need to know about moving with storage units.

When Storage Makes Sense

Between moves — Your new place isn't ready but you need to vacate your current home
Downsizing — Moving to a smaller space and need overflow storage
Renovation — Clearing rooms while work is being done
Life transitions — Divorce, death in the family, military deployment
Seasonal storage — Holiday decorations, patio furniture, sporting equipment

Choosing the Right Unit Size

5×5 — Closet-sized. Small boxes, seasonal items, a few pieces of furniture
5×10 — Walk-in closet. One room's worth of furniture plus boxes
10×10 — Half a garage. 1-2 bedroom apartment's contents
10×15 — Three-quarters of a garage. 2-3 bedroom home
10×20 — Full garage. 3-4 bedroom home
10×30 — Large garage. 4+ bedroom home or vehicles

When in doubt, go one size up. The cost difference is small and the extra space makes loading and accessing items much easier.

How to Load a Storage Unit Efficiently

Put heavy furniture and appliances in the back against the wall
Disassemble beds, tables, and shelving to maximize space
Stack boxes with heaviest on the bottom, lightest on top
Create a center aisle so you can access items in the back
Put items you'll need to access first near the front
Use furniture pads and blankets between large items to prevent scratches
Never store items directly on the floor if the unit isn't climate-controlled — use pallets or plastic sheeting

Protecting Your Stored Items

Climate control — Essential for wood furniture, electronics, photographs, vinyl records, and anything sensitive to heat or humidity. Tulsa summers can reach 100°F+ and storage units without climate control will get much hotter.
Moisture — Use moisture absorbers (DampRid) and avoid storing items in plastic bags which trap humidity
Pests — Don't store food. Use cotton or canvas covers instead of plastic. Check for gaps where rodents could enter.
Insurance — Your homeowner's or renter's insurance may cover stored items. Check your policy. If not, the storage facility usually offers coverage.

When to Hire Movers for Storage

If you're loading or unloading a 10×10 or larger unit, hiring movers is almost always worth it. Professional movers can load a 10×15 unit in about 3 hours — the same job might take you and a friend an entire weekend. We also pack units more efficiently, which can mean the difference between needing a 10×15 and a 10×20.