When you store seasonal or precious items in a storage unit, you will want to have easy access to what you want most. Storage units need a proper organization to ensure that they are efficient for the renter. Before storing items in your unit, here are some organization tips to help you easily access your items.
700 Block Storage has multiple unit sizes to help ensure that you can maneuver through your unit easily, and store items of all sizes. Organization for your storage unit is crucial, but having enough space is also important to get to your personal effects quickly.
1- Stick To One Box Size
When packing smaller items, using one-sized box can help make the unit more organized. Larger items may not need to be stored in a box, so choosing a medium-sized box that can hold smaller items, personal documents, and toys will help keep the unit tidy.
Having the same-sized boxes will make stacking easier. Medium boxes are perfect for most items and can be stacked in order of importance, rather than by size. This will help you easily access the items you need frequently. Balancing large items on top of smaller boxes can be dangerous. Using the proper boxes provides multiple benefits for storage unit users.
2- Label Boxes Clearly
Clearly labeling boxes with a label maker or legible writing will help you locate items with just a glance. Some users label all sides with simple identifiers or a number system. Just make sure to remember the labeling system or make a key to help you remember what items are in those boxes.
You can also label boxes with a shape or special indicator so you know to place them near the front when filling your storage unit. Labels will help you access the right items and save you frustration when you need something specific.
3- Plan The Layout, Store Frequent Use Items Near The Front
Making a layout plan before you place anything in the unit will help you have proper organization. Drawing out a map, writing down what boxes will be in the unit, or practicing stacking certain items at home can be helpful when you move objects into the unit.
Items that you will need to access frequently or within the next few months should be placed on a shelf or near the front of your unit. Seasonal clothes, birth certificates, sports equipment, or travel accessories should be easily accessible in a storage unit. Using clear bins for frequently used items may also help make them easier to find in a rush.
4- Place A Map In The Unit
For items that you are storing long-term, it may be helpful to place a map inside your storage unit. This can help when you haven’t accessed your unit in a long time and may have forgotten where you placed specific boxes. Drawing out even a basic map with square sections can help you find your items faster.
When creating a map and organizing your storage unit, try to group like items together. Kitchen boxes should all be placed together, seasonal or decorations should be placed together, etc. Even dedicating a corner to some of your most useful items can help you down the line.
5- Shelve Or Stack Items
When it comes to organization tips, their biggest goal is to help maximize all the usable space you have available. Whether it be in your home or a storage space, organization and cleanliness go a long way. Especially in a storage unit, you shouldn’t be afraid to use the vertical space in the unit. Shelving and stacking boxes will make it easier to see labels and keep a walkway clear inside the unit. Stacking large pieces of furniture on top of each other will also help you save floor space.
Shelves make it easier to remove boxes that may otherwise be in the middle of a stack. Shelves are more sturdy and boxes of any weight or height can be placed on a shelf of any height. Keeping boxes on a shelf also prevents damage from moisture or spills.
6- Declutter Before Storing
In order to utilize your storage unit to its full capacity, you should limit the number of items that need to be stored. Decluttering before packing up your items for storage can help limit the number of boxes you need. Larger items that haven’t been used in months should also be donated to free up walking space inside the unit. Spring cleaning or decluttering before renting a self-storage unit will help you easily access your items.
7- Leave A Center Aisle
It will be almost impossible to access the back corners of your unit if you don’t leave enough space to walk into the storage unit. Even in a smaller unit, leaving a center aisle to help you squeeze to the back is crucial. Following all of these other organization tips should make developing a center aisle easy.
8- Consider A Larger Unit
If the organization is not helping to make your unit less cluttered, it may be time to invest in a larger unit. Storage units come in multiple sizes and have a large amount of vertical space. Large tables, bed frames, appliances, and large boxes take up more space than you realize. Easily access your items when you have a spacious unit with a walkway aisle.
Storage Options From 700 Block
Our modern facility has units of varying sizes that can accommodate business storage, student storage, military storage, and moving storage. 700 Block Storage is also conveniently located to I-15 in downtown Salt Lake City, UT. No matter what items you need to store, our team can help. With packing materials available, storage units of up to 20 feet, and each floor accessible by elevator, our self-storage is the easiest option for storage. Rent a unit today!