1. Choose the Right Size Unit

  • Don’t pay for space you don’t need, but also don’t rent one that’s too small. Assess your belongings and choose the right unit size to fit everything comfortably while leaving room to access items.

2. Use Vertical Space

  • Shelving: Install free-standing shelves to store boxes and small items, making use of vertical space.
  • Stack Strategically: Place heavy items on the bottom and lighter or fragile items on top to prevent damage.

3. Pack Smart

  • Uniform Boxes: Use same-size boxes for efficient stacking. Label each box with its contents for easy access.
  • Vacuum-Sealed Bags: Use vacuum-sealed bags for clothing or linens to save space.
  • Disassemble Furniture: Break down large furniture like bed frames, tables, and shelves to fit more efficiently.

4. Create Aisles for Access

  • Leave a small aisle down the middle or at least ensure there’s enough space to access items in the back. This prevents having to move everything to reach something stored at the bottom or in the back.

5. Label Everything Clearly

  • Label each box or container on multiple sides so you can see what’s inside without moving things around. You’ll save time and avoid frustration when searching for specific items.

6. Protect Your Items

  • Use Plastic Bins: If possible, opt for plastic bins over cardboard boxes to protect from moisture and pests.
  • Cover Furniture: Use furniture covers or blankets to protect large items from dust or scratches.

7. Use Climate-Controlled Units (If Necessary)

  • If you’re storing temperature-sensitive items like electronics, wood furniture, or important documents, choose a climate-controlled unit to prevent damage from humidity, heat, or cold.

8. Use Pallets or Raised Platforms

  • Place items on pallets or shelves to avoid direct contact with the floor, which helps protect them from potential moisture or flooding.

9. Store Seasonal or Infrequent Items in the Back

  • Place items you won’t need frequently (like seasonal decorations) at the back of the unit and keep regularly used items (like business inventory or holiday decorations) near the front for easy access.

10. Keep a Storage Unit Map

  • Draw a simple map of where everything is located inside the unit, especially if it’s a larger space. This will save you time when you need to retrieve specific items.

11. Consider Security

  • Use a high-quality lock to secure your unit and check if the facility has good security measures like cameras, lighting, and gated access.