What storage and moving do
If your move-out and move-in dates don't match, many movers can store your belongings in their warehouse, either as storage in transit during a long-distance move or as longer-term storage.
What's usually included
- Storage in transit for gaps of days or weeks
- Long-term warehouse storage
- Inventory and labeling of stored items
- Redelivery when you're ready
Who it's for
People between homes, waiting for a closing date, renovating, or relocating for work.
What affects the cost
- Volume stored
- How long
- Handling in and out of storage
- Valuation coverage while in storage
Rough planning ranges by home size and distance: how much movers cost.
Find storage and moving by city
Our city directories list every mover registered with FMCSA in each area, with registration age, fleet size and authority status.
| City | Registered movers | Interstate authority | In-state only |
|---|---|---|---|
| New York, NY | 178 | 127 | 46 |
| Los Angeles, CA | 243 | 96 | 137 |
| Chicago, IL | 136 | 102 | 28 |
| Houston, TX | 230 | 81 | 142 |
| Phoenix, AZ | 134 | 68 | 60 |
| Dallas, TX | 307 | 118 | 178 |
| Austin, TX | 139 | 46 | 90 |
| San Diego, CA | 111 | 32 | 77 |
| Miami, FL | 274 | 148 | 118 |
| Tampa, FL | 105 | 40 | 61 |
Source: FMCSA Company Census File, data as of 2026-11-15.
How to compare companies
- Get at least three written estimates, ideally after a video or in-home survey.
- Compare the same things: services included, valuation coverage, dates and the type of estimate.
- Check licensing: the USDOT number for interstate moves, and any state license for in-state moves. See how to check a moving company.
- Be wary of quotes far below the rest. Moving scam red flags.
Questions to ask before hiring
- Is storage priced per month or by weight/volume?
- Are there extra handling charges?
- What coverage applies while goods are in storage?
Related services
Long Distance Movers
Moves of roughly 100 miles or more, usually priced by weight and distance.
Interstate Movers
Moves across state lines, regulated by FMCSA with specific consumer protections.
Local Movers
Moves within the same city or metro area, usually charged by the hour.
Packing Services
Professional packing, from fragile items only to the whole home.