What it is
Moving and storage combined is a service that puts moving and storage into one plan. Instead of hiring one company to move your stuff and another place to store it, one provider handles both steps.
A common setup is this. A crew picks up your items, loads them into a container or truck space, and takes them to storage. Later, the same provider brings them to your new home. This can help if your lease dates do not line up, your home is not ready, or you need time to settle plans.
Some providers use portable containers. Some use warehouse storage. Some offer short-term storage for a few weeks, and some offer longer storage for months. StowMatch does not store goods or set prices. We help you compare options by city, timing, and size through our free services.
- Good for delayed move-in dates
- Can reduce the number of companies you deal with
- May include pickup, storage, and final delivery in one booking
Who it suits
This service fits people with a gap between homes. For example, if you move out on June 1 but cannot move in until June 20, storage can bridge that gap. It also helps during home repairs, military moves, job relocations, college breaks, and cross-country moves.
It can be useful for new immigrants and families arriving in the US before they have a permanent address. You can move your items into storage first, then send them to your home after you choose a place. This gives you more time and less pressure.
It is also a good fit if you want fewer handoffs. Fewer transfers can mean less lifting and less chance of mix-ups. If you are not sure how much space you need, read How Much Storage Do I Need? before you compare options.
- People with closing date delays
- Renters between leases
- Long-distance movers
- Families waiting on repairs or construction
Typical costs
Costs depend on distance, home size, storage time, labor, and city. A local move with short-term storage may cost a few hundred to a few thousand dollars total. A long-distance move with one month or more of storage can cost much more. These are typical ranges, not quotes.
Providers may charge separate parts of the job. You might see pickup fees, transportation charges, monthly storage fees, redelivery fees, and charges for stairs, long carries, or packing help. Ask whether the monthly storage rate is for a container, a vault, or a set amount of floor space.
Size matters a lot. As a rough guide, a studio or 1-bedroom may fit in one small container or a 5x10 to 10x10 storage space. A 2-bedroom home may need one large container or about 10x15. A 3-bedroom home may need more than one container or around 10x20 or larger. Exact fit depends on furniture and how well items are packed.
- Local jobs often cost less than long-distance jobs
- Monthly storage fees are usually added on top
- Delivery back to your home may be a separate charge
What to check before you book
Start with timing. Ask how soon they can pick up, how much notice they need for redelivery, and whether delivery windows are exact or flexible. If you need your things on a certain day, get that in writing.
Next, ask where your items will be stored and how they are protected. Is the storage indoors? Is it a container kept sealed until delivery, or will items be moved into warehouse vaults? Ask about climate control if you have wood furniture, electronics, artwork, or instruments.
Also check access rules. Many combined services do not let you visit your items anytime you want. Some require an appointment or a delivery order. Confirm insurance coverage, inventory lists, cancellation rules, and extra fees. If you have elevators, narrow stairs, or limited parking, mention that early so the provider can plan correctly.
- Pickup and delivery dates
- Storage type and climate control
- Access to stored items
- Coverage, inventory, and added fees
Get matched
If you want one provider to handle both moving and storage, StowMatch can help you compare options. Tell us your city, move size, and timing. We match you with providers that fit your job.
This service is free to use. We are not a mover, storage company, or warehouse. We do not store items or make prices. We help you save time by narrowing the list based on what you need.
Start with Get Matched if you already know your dates. If you are still planning, you can also explore our guides for space and timing tips before you choose.
- Share your move size and date range
- Compare matched options for your city
- Use StowMatch for free
Common questions
Is moving and storage combined cheaper than booking them separately?
Sometimes, but not always. One provider can reduce coordination and extra handling, but total cost still depends on distance, size, and storage time.
Can I get my stuff back while it is in storage?
Maybe. Some providers allow access by appointment, while others only redeliver the whole load. Ask about access before you book.
How long can items stay in storage?
Many providers offer short-term and long-term storage. Options can range from a few days to several months or longer.
Does StowMatch move or store my things?
No. StowMatch is a free matching service. We help you compare providers based on your move size, timing, and city.