Renting a self-storage unit is a very common practice in today’s fast-running world. These temporary self-storage units are the best solution for people who temporarily move out of town or to a small place. Organizing and packing these storage units is an important task and if not done right can mess up your stuff. To keep a track of your belongings in storage, it is wise to plan your storage organization well.
Here are some tips and tricks that can help you organize your storage unit well. These simple tricks will not only maximize the space but will also help you in arranging your things efficiently.
Create Your Inventory
If you are storing many items in the storage then make it point to create an inventory of all the items. Though it is easy to remember and recall large items like furniture and appliances, keeping a track of small items like artwork, electronics, kitchenware, and clothes is difficult. It is wise to have a list of items sorted according to their usage. Taking pictures of items while packing is another way of keeping a record of your stored belongings. Save all these pictures and inventory lists safe so that you can access them easily when needed. Also, Having an inventory management system that provides excellent inventory accuracy is necessary to remain competitive.
Use Cardboard Boxes or Bins
Using cardboard boxes will not only keep your goods safe but will also enable you to locate your things easily. Though plastic bins are safer than cardboard boxes, they are an expensive option. But if you afford then using opaque plastic boxes can save you from the trouble of finding stuff as you will be able to see through the boxes without opening them.
Disassemble Your Furniture Item
Disassembling your furniture before keeping them in the cheapest storage unit is a good idea to save space. Keep your disassembled furniture parts in an upright vertical position. Though mattresses should be stored lying flat, other items including bed frames, table tops & legs, mattresses, and headboards should be kept in an upright vertical position. The dining table, if cannot be disassembled, should be used as an extra shelf to store or stack boxes.
Store Items According to Their Size and Usage
Before you start packing and organizing things in storage units, it is highly recommended to plan the process well. Make sure you keep all the heavy and large items like furniture in the beginning and towards the back of the storage unit. Storing larger and heavier items at the base of the unit not only saves space but also saves your smaller items.
Also, keep those items in the front that you use frequently. For example, you may have to access your seasonal clothes with every changing season, so it is wise to keep your clothes boxes in the front. Certain items we need at least once a year and we need to keep them at a traceable and approachable distance and these items may include seasonal clothes, boots, swimwear, gadgets, and electronic appliances. This will save you a lot of time and energy.
Keep Your Things in Vertical Position
Prefer going vertical with your belongings when packing your storage unit. Consider stacking your heavy boxes at the bottom and lightboxes at the top and keep your furniture upright. Use hanging shelves to your storage unit to create extra space for items that can be shelved. You can even consider keeping a foldable ladder or step stool to organize your belongings well.
Label All Your Boxes
Labeling is the key to organize your stuff well so, prefer pasting labels on all your cardboard boxes and plastic bins. Labels will help you in finding your stuff easily. You can either use printed labels or can even permanent markers can be used for labeling your boxes. Place the labeled side of the boxes facing the entrance of the storage unit so that you can locate them easily.
Above-said are some important tips that you should keep in mind while packing and storing things in your storage units. Also, keep some points in mind while renting a storage unit, including:
Right Packing Supplies
While packing your storage unit right is a must, using a good quality packing supply is equally important. It is important to use quality packing supplies and sturdy cardboard boxes to keep your things safe as they will be stored for a long period.
Pack Electronics Safely
Electronics should be packed in waterproof bags to keep them safe from any humidity. Electronics may get damaged due to a humid and closed environment.
Choose Right Size Storage Unit
Make sure you choose the right size of storage unit to store your things well. Also, clean the storage unit well before you start packing your storage unit. Opening your storage unit once in a while is also recommended to keep your things from dampening.
