Renting a storage unit is an affordable solution when it comes to needing more space. No matter the reason or length of your storage rental, packing a unit correctly is crucial for a smooth experience. If you thought about simply shoving all your belongings into a unit for months, think again! You never know what you might need in your unit or how often you will have to access certain things. Here’s a blog on how to make your unit organized and easily accessible for frequent accessibility.
Packing
When you’re boxing up items and getting ready to store them, group your belongings based on what you will use the most often. Label your boxes on all sides so you can easily see where your possessions are located once they are packed. Avoid taping your boxes shut so you can get inside of them quickly and hassle-free. Use clear storage containers to visibly see your organized items. Sterilite Storage Containers with handles and latches are very convenient for the packing process. These containers will help keep your items dry and secure in your unit.
Shelving
Bring shelving into your storage unit so that your containers are neatly stacked on top of each other. This will make it easy to visually see all of your possessions when you need to open them. Find shelves that don’t need installation of any kind. Simply buy or use shelving you already have that is portable and sturdy. Put your largest items on the bottom and store lighter ones on top to avoid them from falling or getting damaged. This will be especially useful for those storing 6 months or longer.
Organizing the Unit
Create a layout that will make the most sense for your personal unit. If you’re stuck on which size unit to rent, check out a storage guide to ensure you don’t end up with too much or too little space. If you are storing large pieces of furniture such as your bed, couch, desk, chairs, etc., make sure to put those items in the back of the unit. Pack objects like your clothes, shoes, utensils, or other everyday items on the sides of the unit along the walls. Wardrobe boxes are a must for those who are switching out clothing to keep these articles wrinkle-free. If you aren’t using shelving, avoid stacking boxes or containers that will be accessed the most so that you don’t have to continuously move the stack when you need to retrieve an item. Make sure to keep a clear walkway in the center of the unit so you can walk inside without having to tumble over boxes. If you are planning on storing long-term, it might be useful to create a quick sketch or outline to remind you where you placed your belongings and what containers they are in.