8 Self-Storage Unit Tips for Organizing Your Storage Unit
If you’ve decided to rent a self-storage unit to maximize space at home, declutter, or want somewhere to put your belongings so you don’t stumble upon them at home, it’s a wise decision. It will give you much room to breathe and space to use for more productive things.
You’ll have to start thinking of how you can store your belongings in an organized way. This way, you won’t suffer unnecessarily every time you try to find your winter gloves and have to rummage through all your boxes, finding all kinds of objects but not your gloves. Read our blog to learn eight helpful self-storage packing tips for you to use in your self-storage journey.
1. Choose the Right Storage Size
Start by choosing a self-storage unit that accommodates all your belongings and lifestyle. Consider how often you’ll need access, the amount of items you’ll store, what you will store, and whether you’ll be storing more belongings in the future.
If you choose a larger storage unit than necessary, you could end up with too much extra room, and it can get costly. A smaller storage unit could make it challenging to fit everything in, and it is possible that by overcrowding your items, you put them at risk of damage.
Check out our size guide or contact Premium Spaces, the self-storage experts, to determine which size you need.
2. Don’t Underestimate Vertical Storage
A storage unit, on average, is nine feet tall—don’t let that space go to waste! When you start packing a storage unit, think vertically, not horizontally, as vertical space will help maximize the space you have. If you can, put shelves to optimize your space, putting heavier boxes in the bottom and lighter items in the top to even out the weight.
Disassemble your large furniture, such as tables or beds, to conserve space and protect it from cracking, straining, scratching, or breaking. This is especially helpful for long-term storage.
3. Find Plastic Boxes, if Possible
Transparent plastic boxes are much more durable than cardboard boxes, and easier to navigate as you can see through them. Our tip here is that, if you can, go for plastic boxes whenever possible. You will be able to see what is inside, and they are better for stacking when you use vertical space.
4. Create an Inventory List
It’s a pain when you are looking for something as specific as a certain scarf or a particular dish set, and end up opening every box in your storage unit and still not finding it. Save yourself from this stressful situation and create an inventory list with everything you stored in every box when you start storing your belongings in your space. It can be tedious, but you will thank yourself in the long run!
5. Organize Boxes by Categories
Organizing shipping boxes by zones and categories is incredibly helpful, as you will know immediately where a specific item could be in the storage unit. First, categorize boxes into categories. Group all your belongings into logical categories, such as by item type, like kitchen items, bathroom items, and so on.
Or group them by season, such as holiday decor and summer clothes. This will make it easier to locate each item over time. Which method you choose, don’t forget to label. Use clear labels and include information about the contents of the labelled box.
6. Keep Frequently Used Items in Front
A storage unit is useful for storing items you don’t use regularly, but it’s also a great way to keep sports gear that you use often, or the extra toilet paper you don’t want cluttering your space at home, knowing you’ll come back to get it when needed.
It would make the process difficult if you put these items in the back of your storage space, so put them right next to the door where they are easily accessible! It’s important to have a strategy and plan for how you are going to store your belongings to be as efficient as possible.
7. Create an Aisle and Add Shelving
No matter how big your self-storage unit is, if you are not leaving a clear path down the center, it will be almost impossible for you to navigate it when you come back to take something you need. An aisle will allow for some air to circulate through your storage unit. Even if you have a climate-controlled storage, it’s important to let them breathe a little.
8. Select a Storage Unit With Features You Want for Your Storage Unit
Choose a storage unit where you know you will be comfortable storing your belongings. Assess what features you would want in your storage unit to have peace of mind, like climate control to help shield your items from harsh temperatures, or security features to be at ease.
Premium Spaces also helps make packing and moving easier, with moving supplies on-site, trucks and U-Hauls available, and convenient, month-to-month lease terms. The self-storage process is made easy with our extra features.
Maintain an Organized Storage Unit at Premium Spaces
With the right storage unit and smart organization, you will be able to find anything you need when you go to your storage unit easily! Follow our easy-to-implement tips, and start your storage journey with confidence today. With so many storage unit sizes and types to choose from, we’re confident you’ll find one perfect for you.
Explore Premium Spaces’ storage facilities in Arkansas, Texas, and South Carolina, and rent a storage unit online when you find the perfect one. Contact us online with any questions you have, and don’t forget to check out our FAQ and blog pages.