Short term storage vs. long-term storage: which option to choose?

Summary

The choice between short-term storage and long-term storage depends on many factors. Each option offers its own benefits depending on the nature of the goods to be stored, the length of time you plan to store them, the associated costs and any specific needs you may have.

Whether you are moving, renovating your home, traveling abroad for an extended period, or simply need to free up space at home or in your office, it is crucial to carefully evaluate these elements to choose the storage solution best suited to your situation.

Here are some key considerations to help decide which option to choose:

Duration of storage envisaged for your goods

  • Short-term storage: Short-term storage is perfectly suited for one-off needs. For example, when moving, it may be necessary to store furniture and personal effects while waiting to settle into a new home. Likewise, during a renovation, it is often more practical to temporarily move bulky items to secure storage. Short-term storage is also useful for businesses that need to store goods in transit or seasonal equipment.
  • Long-term storage: Long-term storage is ideal for items that don't need to be accessed frequently and can be put away for several months or even years. This type of storage is often used for furniture, such as garden equipment in winter, or for seasonal clothing. Businesses can also use long-term storage for records that are not accessed regularly but must be retained for legal or administrative reasons. Additionally, families may choose this option to preserve personal keepsakes, valuables, or inherited possessions that have no place in their current home.
People in a workspace

Cost of storage 

  • Short-term storage: Costs for short-term storage may be higher per unit of time, but this option offers great flexibility. At Lockall, our short-term storage contracts are designed toadapt to your specific needs. They are without long-term commitment, which means you can cancel your contract at any time without additional costs. Additionally, if your needs change, you have the option to change the size of your box storage by upgrading to a larger or smaller unit also at no additional cost.
  • Long-term storage: For those planning to store their belongings for an extended period of time, long-term storage options can offer reduced monthly or annual costs. Lockall offers attractive promotions on the first months of rental to encourage long-term commitments. By choosing a long-term storage contract, you not only benefit from more advantageous price, but also the peace of mind of knowing that your belongings are safe for an extended period. This option is ideal for people traveling abroad, businesses needing additional space for their archives or for any other use requiring stable and secure storage over a long period.
pexels karolina grabowska 4491441 edited 1

Necessary accessibility to your stored goods

  • Short-term storage: Short-term storage units are designed to provide easy and frequent access. This means that you can go to your storage unit as often as necessary, without constraints. For example, if you store goods in transit, tools for a construction site in progress, or seasonal sports equipment, you will appreciate being able to access them quickly and at any time. Our storage center offers extended opening hours and 7 days a day access to meet these needs.
  • Long-term storage: For long-term storage, immediate accessibility is not always necessary. Items stored in this type of unit are often goods that you do not need on a regular basis.
Lockall MES Suresne May 2023 13 1 edited

Here is a summary of the different points that will allow you to clearly distinguish the advantages and uses of short and long term storage options:

Short-term storage

  • Ideal for temporary needs: moves, renovations, storage of goods in transit.
  • Typical duration: from a few weeks to a few months.
  • Easy and frequent access, 7 days a week.
  • Flexibility of contracts: without commitment, cancellable at any time.
  • Possibility of changing the size of the box according to needs.
  • Suitable for goods requiring rapid and regular access.

Long-term storage

  • Suitable for items stored over several months or years: seasonal furniture, archives, souvenirs.
  • Less frequent visits
  • Reduced costs for long-term commitments.
  • Promotion options for the first months of rental.
  • Increased security throughout the rental: 24-hour surveillance, alarm systems.

The security of your property, a common criterion to respect 

Whether for short-term or long-term storage, the security of your belongings is essential. At Lockall, we pride ourselves on guarantee the safety and health of our facilities. Our centers are equipped with advanced surveillance systems with 24-hour cameras, access controlled by digital key, and staff on site. The cleanliness of the premises is rigorously maintained to ensure optimal storage conditions. It is also advisable to take out insurance for stored goods, an option available in our contracts, in order to cover any possible risks.

Photo of Lockall Poissy storage facility

What type of storage should you choose for short term or long term storage?

The choice of the type of storage also depends on the nature of the goods, the duration of storage, and the specific needs in terms of security, access and conservation conditions:

For short term storage 

Lockall Storage Center Photo

Self-storage, the ideal solution for short periods

You can rent a storage unit for the duration of your choice, with secure access 7 days a week. Lockall offers boxes in different sizes to suit your needs, whether you need a small space for a few weeks or a larger box for several months.

For long term storage 

Lockall Center Suresne May 2023 30

The storage box with reinforced security

For high-value goods, precious collections or sensitive documents, it is crucial to opt for a storage unit with enhanced security. Lockall offers highly secure storage units equipped with modern surveillance systems.

Lockall Center Suresne May 2023 26

The traditional furniture storage

Storage spaces offering proper security and protection, generally less expensive in the long term, ideal for furniture and personal effects,

It is an economical solution for prolonged storage, and with flexible access conditions.

Lockall, the versatile solution for your short or long term storage needs

Short or long term box rentals

At Lockall, we understand that storage needs can vary. That's why we offer flexible contracts, with short-term rental options for immediate needs, as well as sliding scale rates for longer commitments. The diversity of our box sizes makes it possible to meet a wide range of needs, whether for storing documents, furniture or office equipment. Whatever the duration of your rental, our boxes offer a practical and secure storage solution.

Secure boxes to protect your belongings

Safety is at the heart of our concerns at Lockall. Our storage units are equipped with rigorous access control, ensuring that only authorized customers can access their unit. Surveillance systems, with cameras installed in all strategic areas, guarantee continuous security. Whether you're storing personal property or business items, you can be confident that your belongings are protected.

Boxes near you to keep your belongings accessible

With several locations in the Paris region, Lockall ensures that your belongings remain within reach. Our storage centers are ideally located to provide you with easy and quick access to your personal belongings. Additionally, our flexible hours allow you to visit your box whenever you need, day or night. With Lockall, your belongings are not only secure, but also easily accessible, making storage simple and convenient.

How to choose the right self-storage unit?

When you opt for a storage unit, several criteria must be taken into account to guarantee a satisfactory experience. The security of the storage center is essential, as are its accessibility and proximity. It is also essential to choose a box size that suits your storage needs. Use our volume calculator to make your choice.
At Lockall, we focus on security with 24/7 video surveillance and 7/7 access. Our centers offer boxes of different sizes, ranging from 0.5 to 50m² depending on the center, as well as modern and clean facilities, with unloading and parking areas available.

How does self-storage work?

The concept is based on the rental of storage spaces in specialized centers. These spaces are suitable for storing a wide variety of items: furniture, archives, sports equipment, merchandise, etc.
It is an ideal space for storing goods that are less used on a daily basis, during moves or even work. Facilities are ventilated to prevent moisture and damage. Each customer has an individual space to guarantee the security and confidentiality of their property.
At Lockall, access to the storage unit is via a mobile application, offering convenience and security. Explore our facilities and discover what a storage unit looks like with our virtual tour.

Other tips