How to Organize Your Storage Unit

Plan Ahead

• Create a list of everything you're putting in storage
• Map out your unit, designating areas for specific rooms or types of items
• Place frequently used items near the front for easy access

• Sturdy boxes of various sizes
• Packing tape
• Bubble wrap or packing paper
• Furniture covers
• Labels and markers
• Pallets or shelving units (optional)

Packing Tips

• Label all boxes thoroughly
  • Include box number, room, and contents
  • Label the top and at least one side of each box
• Pack heavy items in smaller boxes
• Use large boxes for lighter items
• Use household linens like towels and sheets to wrap fragile items

• Write down each box number and its contents
• Save the list for easy reference when searching for specific items

• Clean and dry all furniture before storage
• Disassemble furniture when possible, to save space
• Cover wooden furniture to prevent dust accumulation
• Use mattress and sofa covers for protection

• Clean and dry all appliances thoroughly
• Leave appliance doors slightly ajar to prevent mold growth
• Remove batteries from electronics

• Wrap delicate items in bubble wrap or packing paper
• Use towels and sheets as additional padding
• Mark boxes containing fragile items clearly

Organizing Your Storage Unit

• Leave a walkway down the middle of your unit, so that it’s easy to get to everything

• Stack boxes and items vertically to maximize space
• Place the heaviest items on the bottom and the lightest items on top
• Consider installing metal shelving for better organization

• Start by storing items along the outer walls
• Leave space between rows for access

• Put frequently needed items near the front
• Store seasonal items toward the back

• Fill dressers, wardrobes, and appliances with smaller items or boxes
• Stack chairs seat-to-seat to save space

• Use wooden pallets to keep items off the floor
• Leave small gaps between items and walls for air circulation
• Consider climate-controlled storage for sensitive items

Additional Tips and Tricks

• Ensure all items are completely dry before storage
• Add silica gel packets to humidity-sensitive boxes
• Avoid storing perishables or live plants

• Use high-quality locks on your unit
• Don't store valuable or irreplaceable items if possible
• Check your insurance coverage for stored items

• Visit your unit periodically to check on your belongings
• Rearrange items if needed based on seasonal use

What Not to Store

While self-storage units are versatile, certain items should never be stored:

• Flammable or toxic materials
• Perishable food items
• Live plants or animals
• Illegal items or unregistered firearms
• Hazardous materials

Organizing your storage unit effectively takes some initial planning and effort, but it pays off in the long run. By following these guidelines, you'll create an organized, accessible, and efficient storage space that protects your belongings and saves you time and stress whenever you need to retrieve items.

Remember, the key to a well-organized storage unit lies in thorough planning, smart packing, and strategic arrangement. With these tips in mind, you can make the most of your storage space and keep your belongings safe and easily accessible.

Check out OUR storage units, right here in Columbia!