Can I Pause My Storage Contract Temporarily?
In most cases, you can't pause a storage contract temporarily, but you might be able to store with a company that allows you to take items in and out of storage more flexibly.
Life can change quickly. One month you might need extra space to store your furniture, university gear, or business stock, and the next you might not.
But can you just press pause on your storage contract? It's natural to wonder: why should you keep paying for something you're not actively using?
The truth is that most self storage companies don't offer a pause option and usually come with contracts with a set notice period.
But that doesn't mean you are stuck and there are definitely options out there that are more flexible. At The Box Co., we charge for storage by the box, with the option for our customers to take items in and out of storage as regularly as they need.
And the best part? We handle all the transport, so pressing pause is easy!
In this guide, we'll explain why pausing a storage contract is not normally possible, what happens if you stop paying, and some alternatives available if you just need a short break.
Why storage contracts can’t usually be paused
Traditional self storage companies expect you to pay monthly to keep your items stored away.
Even if you're not visiting your unit or using the space, the contract is still active. If payments stop, late fees can build up and eventually, the company can take legal steps to claim your items.
This is why most companies don't offer a formal “pause” button. Once you sign the agreement, you are either paying for the space or you need to give notice and move out.
It's important to know exactly what notice period you'll be expected to give, so you don't end up with any nasty surprises.
Cancelling vs pausing: what’s the difference?
While pausing isn't usually allowed, cancelling can be an option as long as you give the right notice.
For example, some companies ask for seven days' written notice before ending your storage agreement. Once you move out, you can always re-rent later, although prices and availability might not be the same.
With The Box Co., you can book storage for as long or as short a time as you like.
There is no deposit, no hidden fees and no wasted space. When you are ready to have your things back, we return them to your door within 24 hours. And if you want to put them away again, that's no problem! You can take your things in or out of storage as much as you like, without any inflexible contracts.
What happens if you stop paying your storage unit bill?
It might be tempting to think you can just leave your unit and pick things back up later, but that can land you in choppy water...
Payments and late fees will continue to add up.
Access to your unit may be blocked until the balance is paid.
After written notice, the company can legally take possession of your stuff to cover unpaid costs
Missed payments may even be reported to credit agencies, which can affect your credit score.
It is always better to speak with your storage company than to walk away, as abandoning a unit makes the situation more stressful and expensive.
Alternatives if you need a break from storage
Just because you cannot press pause, it does not mean you have no options.
Downsize your unit
If you only have a few things left to store, moving into a smaller space can cut your monthly bill.
Sell or donate
Clearing out stuff you no longer need can mean you don't need as much storage, which can make it cheaper.
Ask for flexibility
Some companies may give you a short-term discount, payment plan or other support if you explain your situation.
Why The Box Co. makes life easier if you want flexible storage
At The Box Co., we've designed our storage service to be far more flexible than traditional self-storage.
Instead of renting a big unit that sits half empty, you only pay for the boxes or containers you actually use. If you want to lower your costs, you can just ask us to return few boxes and your bill drops automatically.
Because we handle the collection and return of your stuff, you never need to worry about hiring a van or hauling heavy furniture around. It is storage that flexes with you, whether you need it for a couple of weeks or a few months.
Keeping storage flexible
So, can you pause your storage contract temporarily? Not with most traditional self storage companies. But by downsizing, clearing out, or switching to a flexible service like The Box Co., you can get the same outcome without the stress.
If you are looking for storage that bends around your lifestyle instead of tying you into a strict contract, we would love to help. Book your storage with The Box Co. today and enjoy a service built around you!
