Self-Storage Packing & Organization Tips
Chris Threet
July 13th, 2021
Self-Storage Packing & Organization Tips
Are you planning on renting a self-storage space for your possessions? Perhaps you have a move coming up. Maybe you simply need some extra space. Whatever your circumstances, self-storage can be daunting—but it is doable, with a little strategic packing and organization. Here are a few tips to get you started.
Tips for Choosing a Storage Unit
Take the time to consider what you’re looking for, and you’ll be more likely to be happy with your choice. Here are a few things to consider.
Find the Right Unit Size
When it comes to unit size, consider the Goldilocks principle: not too big, not too small, but just right. After all, you don’t want to have to pay for more storage space than you need. And cheap storage is great, but cramming everything into a unit that is too small isn’t anyone’s idea of a good time either.
Consider the Ease of Access to the Unit
How often will you be coming and going to and from your unit? How long is the drive, and how easy is the facility to access? Drive up storage is easiest, and loading and unloading your possessions is simple with this form of access. However, indoor access is more comfortable and also offers the possibility of climate control—crucial for some items.
Determine if You Need Climate Control
What’s the climate like in your community? If it’s prone to extreme temperatures and/or humidity, indoor storage with climate control might be your best bet. Another thing to consider is that some items, including certain electronics, wooden furniture, and artwork can be very sensitive to temperature extremes and humidity.
Tips for Preparing for Self-Storage
Preparing for self-storage means getting ready to pack up your possessions and store them. Here are a few things to consider.
Acquire Packing Supplies
Cardboard boxes are a must-have for most people when it comes to packing: they’re convenient for storing all manner of things, from kitchenware to clothing to books. By the way, if you’re wondering how to pack books, try not filling up a whole box: they get heavy! Other packing supplies including packing tape (try a roll with a built-in tape cutter), paper or bubble wrap to protect delicate items, and labels and markers. And try plastic containers for items that may be particularly sensitive to moisture.
Clean Your Belongings
It’s a good idea to clean everything before you store it away. That way, it will be in good condition when you take it out.
Properly Pack Your Belongings
Properly packing your belongings means thinking about how storage will affect your belongings. Consider which of your possessions may be delicate, prone to breaking, warping, bending, or other damage. Another aspect of this is thinking about how to store your possessions efficiently. If you’re storing furniture, for example, consider taking larger pieces apart.
Consider Storage Insurance
The reality is that even with the best precautions, things sometimes get damaged in storage. Self-storage insurance offered at the facility can cover you in the event that one or more of your possessions are damaged.
Storage Unit Packing Tips
Keep Heavy Items Low
Heavy items should be stored at ground level. Putting them higher up, on top of other things, is a bad idea: what happens if they fall?
Start Vertically in the Back
This is by far the best way to maximize your use of storage space. By starting in the back and putting things on top of other things—in particular, medium- and light-weight items on top of heavier items—you can make the most use of the space as you work your way forward.
Use Shelf, Desk Space for Smaller Items
Smaller items are easy to lose track of, and some may be breakable. Why not put them on your shelf or desk space? That way you’ll know where they are and you won’t have to worry about crushing them with boxes or by stepping on them.
Create a Walkway for Easy Access
As you’re filling your unit, leave a walkway open—perhaps through the middle, if convenient—so that you can access your items when you come back. This is more important if you’re planning on coming back and getting some of your possessions and returning for the rest later: it will make it easier to find what you need and get to it.
Pack Items You Might Need Near the Front
While you’re packing up, think about what you’re most likely to need first when you do start unpacking. Take those items and put them near the front so that they’ll be some of the first things you get to when you start unpacking.
Self Storage Tips