Temporary storage (also known as a storage unit, self-storage, or bridging storage) is one of the most underrated services in any move. Most people think “I won't need that” — until they find themselves in one of the situations where it is indispensable: the new home isn't ready, the delivery arrives before the keys are handed over, you are moving in phases, or you simply have furniture that temporarily has nowhere to go. This guide explains when it is worth using and how much it costs.
The 7 typical situations where storage saves you
1. Gap between move-out and move-in dates
The most common case. You have to vacate your old rental on the 31st but your new home keys aren't available until the 15th of the following month. Without storage you would have to pay for 15 nights in a hotel plus double transport. With storage, your belongings are safe until you actually need them.
2. Property purchase with delayed completion
You buy a new property but the bank delays the signing. The mortgage is approved, the date is confirmed and then postponed 2–3 weeks. Storage gives you breathing room without breaking the chain from the sale of your previous home.
3. Move following a separation or divorce
You need to leave the shared home urgently but haven't yet found your permanent new home. Temporary storage gives you 1–3 months to search at your own pace, without pressure.
4. Renovation of the new home before moving in
You have bought or rented a property that needs 2–6 weeks of work (painting, floors, bathroom, kitchen). Your furniture waits in storage while the work progresses, without suffering dust or damage.
5. Move to the Canary Islands from the mainland
The container arrives in Tenerife/Las Palmas in 7–9 days, but perhaps you fly over 2 weeks later. Your furniture waits in our Canarian storage facility until you are ready to receive it at home.
6. Downsizing
You are moving to a smaller home but keeping furniture “for later” (when the children leave, when you buy a bigger place, a family heirloom). Safe, affordable storage while you decide.
7. Temporary stay with family
You spend a few months with relatives before having your own place (separation, job loss, temporary work relocation, move with an elderly family member). Your furniture waits in storage until you have your own space.
Types of storage to suit your needs
Individual self-storage
You rent a unit with your own key or code and can access it whenever you like during set hours. Good for:
- Frequent access to your belongings
- Small to medium volumes (2–10 m³)
- Long-term storage (6+ months)
Traditional managed storage
The removal company stores your goods in its general warehouse, packed and sealed. Good for:
- Large moves (15+ m³)
- Short periods (1–3 months)
- No need to access your belongings until the final moving day
- More economical than individual self-storage
Climate-controlled storage
Storage with humidity and temperature control. Essential for:
- Collector wines and spirits
- Works of art, antiques, musical instruments
- Rare books or sensitive documents
- Long-term moves (6+ months) with delicate materials
How much does storage cost
Self-storage per m³ per month
- 2–3 m³ (booth-size, motorcycles, appliances): 35–60 €/month
- 5 m³ (studio/single room): 60–100 €/month
- 10 m³ (1-bedroom flat): 100–180 €/month
- 15 m³ (2-bedroom flat): 150–260 €/month
- 25 m³ (full home): 250–420 €/month
Managed storage
Typically 20–40% cheaper than individual self-storage for medium-to-large volumes, especially for short periods. At Horizont Atlantic we offer managed storage at our El Mayorazgo facility (Tenerife) from 80 €/month for 5 m³.
Typical additional costs
- First month pro-rated from your arrival date
- Deposit (typically 1 month)
- Insurance (10–30 €/month depending on declared value)
- Out-of-hours access (self-storage only): +5–15 € per visit
- Transport in and out (charged at the removal rate per m³)
Documents you should NOT leave in storage
For security and convenience, keep with you (not in the unit):
- Original documents (DNI, property deeds, contracts)
- Cash, jewellery, items of the highest sentimental value
- Medication or medical equipment in regular use
- Chargers, small electronics (mobile phone, laptop)
- Clothing for the days before your final move
Storage is for furniture, appliances, books, seasonal clothing, and labelled boxes of things you don't use daily.
Specific packing for storage
If your belongings will be stored for 2+ weeks, reinforce the packing:
- Plastic covers for mattresses, sofas, and armchairs (against dust and moisture)
- Silica gel sachets in boxes with books, clothing, or electronics (anti-moisture)
- Clear labelling on every box (so you can find what you need if you need to access the unit)
- Printed inventory with the position of each box in the unit
Frequently asked questions about storage
How long can furniture be kept in storage?
There is no limit. We have clients with belongings in storage for years. The cost is calculated monthly. The only important thing is that the packing is adequate for long-term storage (covers, moisture protection for damp locations).
Is my furniture safe in storage?
Yes, if you choose a professional company. Our facilities feature:
- 24-hour surveillance by staff and cameras
- Access control with personal code or key
- Fire and theft prevention systems
- Goods insurance included in the price
Can I leave appliances in storage?
Yes, provided they are:
- Empty and dry (the fridge in particular must be fully defrosted and clean)
- Wrapped in bubble wrap or blankets
- Positioned correctly: washing machines and fridges must always be stored upright
Further details in: transporting a fridge and transporting a washing machine.
Are there discounts for booking storage + removal together?
Yes. If you book a removal + temporary storage with Horizont Atlantic, we apply a 15–25% discount on the storage because we are already handling your goods during the move itself (no additional transport cost to the warehouse).
When is self-storage better and when is managed storage better?
Self-storage: if you need frequent access or have a small volume (under 5 m³). Managed storage: for short periods (1–3 months), medium-to-large volume (10+ m³), and when you don't need access until the final day. The latter is usually more economical.
How do I access my belongings in managed storage?
You book an appointment with us (24–48 hours in advance), our staff locate your goods in the warehouse and prepare the area so you can access them. If you only need to retrieve 1–2 specific items, they will help you find them without having to unpack everything.
Our own storage facility in Tenerife
At Horizont Atlantic we have our own storage facilities in the Polígono Industrial El Mayorazgo (Santa Cruz de Tenerife), with all the services mentioned and prices from 80 €/month. More information at: storage units in Tenerife. Contact us for a personalised quote.
