Maximizing space in your self-storage unit
Introduction
Self-storage facilities have become a popular option for people and businesses to store their belongings. The number of storage units across the United States has been increasing steadily. According to SpareFoot, since 2013 construction spending on storage units has risen by $390 million. Whether you’re downsizing, moving, or just need extra space, a self-storage unit can be a lifesaver.
It can be difficult to know where to begin when packing up your belongings, so we’re here to help. Mastering the art of packing a storage unit, whether it’s climate-controlled or a standard unit can save you time and energy in the long run. In this blog, we will share tips and tricks for efficiently and effectively packing your storage unit.
Plan and prepare
Before moving your belongings into a self-storage unit, take some time to plan and prepare. Start by assessing your storage needs. This includes things like: Do your items need to be kept in a climate-controlled storage unit? What square footage is needed? What is your timeframe? By following this step, you can avoid the inconvenience of renting a storage unit that is either too small or too large for your specific needs. This can help you avoid unnecessary expenses.
Categorize and label
Categorizing and labeling your belongings is a crucial step in maintaining an organized storage unit. Before packing, sort your items into categories such as seasonal clothing, furniture, appliances, or documents. Use clear plastic bins or sturdy boxes and label them accordingly. This way, you’ll know exactly where to find specific items without the need to rummage through all your boxes.
Utilize vertical space
Depending on your unit size, one of the most effective ways to maximize space in your self-storage unit is by utilizing the vertical space. Invest in sturdy shelving units or racks to take advantage of the height of the unit. By stacking boxes and placing items on shelves, you’ll create more floor space, making it easier to navigate and locate your belongings.
Create aisle space
Be sure to leave enough aisle space to navigate through the unit. It’s tempting to fill every nook and cranny, but a cluttered unit can quickly become overwhelming. Leave narrow paths between rows of boxes or shelves to ensure easy access to all your items.
Protect your belongings
To maintain the condition of your belongings, it’s crucial to protect them properly. Utilize sturdy and moisture-resistant (for non-climate controlled units) packing materials such as plastic covers, furniture blankets, and bubble wrap.
Use plastic coverings to keep your items clean from any dust/debris. Furniture blankets should be used for, well you guessed it, furniture. And lastly use bubble wrap for fragile items.
Disassemble and stack smartly
Large items like furniture can take up significant space in your storage unit. To optimize space, disassemble furniture whenever possible. Remove table legs, detach bed frames, and stack items vertically (fun fact: Almost all couches can be stacked vertically, try this out to help save space). Keep all screws, bolts, and assembly tools in labeled bags, securely taped to the corresponding furniture piece, to avoid any confusion when reassembling in the future.
Conclusion
Renting a self-storage unit can provide you with much-needed space and flexibility. Implementing the tips from this blog will assist you in optimizing your storage unit, maximizing space, and maintaining organized and easily accessible belongings.
For a successful self-storage experience, proper planning, categorization, and smart stacking are essential. Make sure to use these tips when renting with Owl Storage. Give us a call or sign up on our website so we can assist you with all of your storage needs!
