Organizing and Packing Your Storage Unit
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February 4th, 2021
Keeping your storage unit organized and clutter-free will help during your storage time. Thinking about what you may want to access during your storage time will save you the headache of sorting through your unit to find that specific item. We have some helpful storage unit packing and organization tips for your storage unit at Lock Box Self Storage.
Prepare for Packing Your Storage Unit
Take a few steps to ensure your belongings are safe from damage until you return. Before you begin loading your storage unit make sure your boxes are packed right and that the sizes of your boxes are stackable.
Shelving
You could install freestanding shelving units to help when wanting to access that bottom box. Shelves will help with the weight of the boxes, and make it easier to access those items needed quickly.
Climate-Controlled Storage
Renting a climate-controlled storage unit will help protect your belongings from the changing conditions. Sensitive items will be protected in a climate-controlled unit. If storing in a drive-up unit, putting plastic or wooden pallets can help guard against moisture.
Packing Your Storage Unit
Different types of items need to be packed differently when put into self-storage to lessen the likelihood of damage or decay. The following packing times will help with short-term or long-term storage.
Storing Furniture
Bulky furniture can take up lots of room, so breaking it down as much as possible will create more storage space. Tables, bed frames, headboards, and mattresses will store better broken down. Cover all furniture with and mattresses with covers to help keep the dust, and dirt off. Thoroughly clean and vacuum all your furniture before you put them in storage.
Storing Electronics
Computers, TVs, video game consoles, tablets and phones can get broken or stop working if not properly stored. Make sure to make a backup file of all the information you have on your electronic devices. Unplug all cables and cords, then place them in a separate zip lock bag. Pack all electronic equipment in the original boxes if you still have them. If not stop by our store for bubble wrap and boxes to help protect them from dust and getting broken.
Storing Clothes
Using your storage unit to store seasonal clothing will help give you more room in your home. Wardrobe boxes are great for being able to remove your clothing from storge straight to your closet. If you have room at the bottom of the box you can store some shoes. For items that don’t need to be on hangers, fold or roll loosely and place in a box. Using an oxygen absorbent will help pull moisture out of your storage unit.
Storing Appliances
Refrigerators, ovens, microwaves, washers, or dryers will need a little preparation. Climate-controlled storage is great for all your appliances. Make sure to drain all the water from them and the hoses to prevent freezing and mold growth. Clean all appliances and make sure they are dry before storing. Leaving your refrigerator door slightly ajar by wedging and object in between the door will help air flow and avoid mold. If you’re storing a grill, remove the propane take before putting it in storage and do a deep cleaning on your grill.
Storing Breakables
Take extra care when storing fragile items like dishes, glassware, mirrors, an antiques to ensure nothing gets damaged or broken. Wrapping them in bubble wrap, newspaper and then placing the items in a strong double wall box will help protect them. Make sure these items are stored on shelves or the top of your box pile so they don’t get crushed.
Storing Books
Books that are not stored properly can become damaged, stained or warped. Make sure your books are dry and not musty smelling before you pack them for storage. Using an acid-free paper to wrap will help preserve them. Packing your books flat and not on the spine will keep the spine from warping or braking. Books can be heavy, so make sure to pack in smaller boxes.
Keeping your Storage Unit Organized
Think about what you might want to get to and what you won’t need until later. Keeping the following items in mind will help improve your storage unit organization.
Packing from Back to Front
Determine what items you will not need to access and place them in the back of your storage unit. Those items you will be needing to access in the future keep them in the front. You can also leave a walk way in the center of your unit so you can access both sides. This will make it easier to get to more of your items that are stored.
Labeling Your Boxes and Creating an Inventory
Make sure to describe what is in the box. If you have five Christmas boxes and only need to find one item. If you detail what is in each box, you won’t have to open all five boxes. Be creative, use different colors, make an inventory list that details everything that is in a box. Taking photos will also help keep everything organized. You can even keep track in what area your items are at in the storage unit.
Storing Heavy Items on the Bottom
When stacking boxes, make sure to put the heaviest boxes on the bottom. This will help so the boxes don’t get crushed by heaver items. All boxes are different thicknesses, using a thicker box will help when stacking.
Our unit size page will help you determine what storage unit to rent. Also, check out our moving supply page to make a list of what you will need. Give us a call and we’ll get your storage unit and supplies ready for pickup when you arrive.