TL;DR: Organization Quick Tips
- Label Everything: Mark every box and bin on multiple sides.
- Visualize the Space: A 5×5 is like a hall closet, while a 10×20 is like a one-car garage.
- Think Vertically: Use the 9-foot ceilings to stack items like cubes atop one another.
- Keep it Safe: Use climate-controlled storage units and leave room for air to move.
Table of Contents
- Label Your Boxes and Bins
- Create a Master List
- Map Out Your Space
- Stack High and Use Your Vertical Space
- Put Important Items in the Front
- Create a Center Aisle
- Allow for Proper Airflow
- Use Shelving for Fragile Items
- Frequently Asked Questions
Struggling to navigate the chaos that is your storage unit? Don’t stress, we’ve got you covered. In this blog, we’ll walk you through eight simple steps to transform your cluttered storage space into an organized haven. From labeling and mapping to creating aisles and utilizing shelving, get ready to tackle the mess with confidence and reclaim control over your belongings.
1. Label Your Boxes and Bins
The first rule of a great storage unit is labeling. It might seem like extra work now, but you will be happy you did it later. Use a thick marker to write on the top and at least one side of every box. Make sure to list the room it came from and a few of the main items inside. This helps you avoid digging through three different boxes just to find a single kitchen tool.
2. Create a Master List
As you pack, keep a simple list of every box number and what is inside. This is your “cheat sheet” for finding things. You can keep this list on your phone or on a piece of paper taped near the front of your unit. Having a master list means you never have to guess which box holds your winter coats or holiday lights.
3. Map Out Your Space
Before you move items into your unit, draw a quick sketch. It doesn’t need to be perfect; just show where each room’s items will live. Grouping all your “Bedroom” boxes in one corner and “Office” boxes in another makes everything easier to find. This map helps you stay organized as you fill the space.
4. Stack High and Use Your Vertical Space
To get the most out of your rental, you need to use the height of the room. Most of our units have 9-foot ceilings. To visualize your space, compare it to a room in your house:
- A 5×5 unit is about the size of a standard hall closet.
- A 5×10 unit is similar to a walk-in closet.
- A 10×10 unit is about the size of a standard room.
- A 10×20 unit is roughly the size of a one-car garage.
Think of your items as several large cubes stacked atop one another. Put your heaviest, sturdiest boxes and bins on the floor to create a strong base, then stack lighter boxes on top.
5. Put Important Items in the Front
Think about what you might need to grab in the next few months. Items like seasonal clothes, sports gear, or holiday decorations should go in last so they stay right near the door. By placing these items in the front, you can reach them quickly without having to move heavy furniture or walk to the back of the unit.
6. Create a Center Aisle
It is easy for a storage unit to become a maze. To avoid this, leave a small path or “center aisle” down the middle. This allows you to walk into the unit and reach boxes on either side. Even in a small space, a little path makes a huge difference in how useful the unit feels.
7. Allow for Proper Airflow
Even when using climate-controlled storage units, air needs to move to keep things fresh. Try not to push your boxes and bins directly against the walls. Leaving an inch or two of space helps air move around your belongings. If possible, place items on pallets to keep them slightly off the floor.
8. Use Shelving for Fragile Items
While stacking is great for heavy bins, you might not want to put weight on delicate items like glassware or electronics. Adding a simple set of metal shelves can help you use the full 9-foot height of your unit without risking damage. Shelving gives you peace of mind and keeps your most fragile items easy to see.
Frequently Asked Questions About Organizing Your Unit
Q: What is the best way to store a few small items?
A: If you only have a few things, a storage locker is a great choice. These are usually half the height of a standard 5×5 unit. They are perfect for keeping a few boxes or small items close at hand but out of the way at home.
Q: How do I pack furniture in a storage unit?
A: If you can, take furniture apart by removing legs. For items that can’t be taken apart, try stacking them top-to-top to save space. To protect your furniture from dust and weather, we recommend using climate-controlled storage units.
Q: What should I never put in my storage unit?
A: You should never store anything flammable, toxic, or perishable. This includes chemicals, gas cans, and food. You also cannot store live plants or animals. Always ask a storage professional if you are unsure about an item.
