Will Movers Go to a Storage Unit?
Yes, most moving companies will go to a storage unit.
If you are moving items into storage, a mover can usually load everything from your home, drive it to the storage facility, and unload it into your unit. If you are moving out of storage, they can usually pick up your items from the unit and take them to your new home, apartment, office, or another storage space.
The main thing is to tell the moving company ahead of time. Do not assume they know the stop is a storage unit. Give them the facility address, unit number, access hours, gate code, and any details that could slow the job down.
A little planning can save you a lot of time on moving day.
What to Tell the Moving Company
When you call for a quote, be clear about the full move.
Tell them:
- Where the move starts
- Whether the storage unit is the pickup location, drop-off location, or an extra stop
- The size of the storage unit
- Whether the unit is drive-up or inside a building
- Whether there are stairs, elevators, long hallways, or tight turns
- Whether you have heavy items like safes, pianos, appliances, or large furniture
- Whether the mover needs to pack anything
- The storage facility’s gate hours and office hours
Movers need this information to bring the right truck, enough crew members, and the right equipment. It also helps them give you a more accurate quote.
Drive-Up Storage Units Make Moving Easier
A drive-up storage unit is usually the easiest type of unit for movers.
The truck can pull close to the unit, the door opens from the outside, and the movers can carry items straight in or out. That means less walking, less time, and less hassle.
Indoor units can still work, but they may take longer. If your unit is down a hallway, on an upper floor, or far from the loading area, the move may cost more because the movers spend more time carrying items back and forth.
This is why facility layout matters. Wide driveways, easy turns, and room for large trucks can make a big difference.
At Garden of the Gods Self Storage, our wide driveways and drive-up storage units make it easier for moving trucks to get in, unload, and get out without a lot of extra maneuvering.
Ask About Extra Fees Before Moving Day
Some movers include storage unit stops in their normal pricing. Others may charge extra.
Ask before you book.
Good questions to ask include:
- Do you move items into and out of storage units?
- Is there an extra charge for a storage facility stop?
- Do you charge more if the unit is far from the truck?
- Do you charge for stairs or elevators?
- Do you charge for heavy or oversized items?
- Is packing included?
- What happens if the move takes longer than expected?
- What kind of damage coverage is included?
Local movers often charge by the hour, so anything that slows the move down can increase the final price. A unit that is easy to access can help keep the job simple.
Make Sure the Movers Can Access the Unit
Before moving day, make sure the movers can get into the facility and the unit.
That means checking:
- Gate code
- Unit lock and key
- Facility hours
- Office hours
- Truck access
- Parking or loading areas
- Any facility rules for moving trucks
- Whether the account holder needs to be present
If your storage facility has limited gate hours, schedule the movers inside that window. Give yourself extra time. Moves often take longer than expected, especially if there are multiple stops.
Label Items Before They Go Into Storage
If the movers are taking some items to your new place and some items to storage, label everything clearly.
Use simple labels like:
- Storage
- New house
- Garage
- Bedroom
- Fragile
- Do not stack
Color tape can help too. For example, blue tape for storage and green tape for the new home.
This matters because movers work fast. Clear labels prevent boxes from ending up in the wrong place.
Pack the Storage Unit With Access in Mind
Think about what you may need later.
If you might come back for seasonal items, business supplies, tools, documents, or clothing, ask the movers to place those items near the front of the unit.
Put heavier furniture and boxes on the bottom. Keep fragile items protected. Leave a small walkway if the unit is large enough.
A packed storage unit can become frustrating fast if the things you need are buried in the back.
Can Movers Pack Items for Storage?
Yes, many moving companies offer packing services.
This can be helpful if you are storing fragile items, furniture, artwork, dishes, mirrors, or electronics. Professional movers can wrap and protect items so they are better prepared for transport and storage.
If you are packing yourself, use sturdy boxes, good tape, and protective materials. Avoid loose bags when possible. Boxes stack better and make better use of the unit.
For furniture, ask the mover whether they recommend moving blankets, stretch wrap, mattress bags, or other protection.
What About Damage During the Move?
Ask your moving company what coverage is included.
Movers usually offer basic coverage, and many offer additional protection for an extra cost. The details vary by company, so ask before the move begins.
Also check your storage insurance or tenant protection plan. Stored items may need separate coverage once they are inside the unit.
Take photos of valuable items before the move. It only takes a few minutes and gives you a record of their condition.
A Simple Moving Day Checklist
Before the movers arrive:
- Confirm the storage facility address
- Confirm the gate code
- Bring the unit key or lock combination
- Check the facility hours
- Label boxes clearly
- Tell movers what goes to storage
- Keep important documents, medication, chargers, and valuables with you
- Make sure the unit is clean and ready
- Ask the facility where the truck should park
- Leave room in your schedule for delays
The more decisions you make ahead of time, the smoother the move will be.
So, Will Movers Go to a Storage Unit?
Yes, most movers will go to a storage unit as long as they know about it ahead of time and can access the unit safely.
The easiest setup is a drive-up unit with room for the truck to get close. Indoor units, stairs, elevators, narrow driveways, and long carries can still work, but they may add time or cost.
Call the mover first. Call the storage facility too. Confirm the details with both sides before moving day.Those small steps can save you from a lot of confusion when the truck shows up.