Expanding your current personal storage needs with a self-storage unit can be a great way to save space and improve the organization of your belongings. In order to make the most of this opportunity, it is important to have a plan in mind before you begin filling your storage space with excess furniture, clothes, or more.
To help you maximize the utility that your storage unit offers, we’ve brought together some of our top self storage tips and tricks. These tips for storage units can help you choose the right self storage solution for your needs, improve access to the items in your storage unit, and make the entire process quick and easy.
Size up Your Storage Needs
One of the first things you should do if you want to rent a storage space is to figure out what you are going to put in your unit. There are different types of storage units, so it is a good idea to pick one that fits your needs.
- Create a list of the items, both big and small, that you plan on packing and storing. This will help you get a good sense of exactly how much room you need in your storage place.
- Make an inventory list of items you plan to put in storage, along with their dimensions. While this isn’t necessary for everyone, it is important to at least look over the things you want to store.
Even a quick visual assessment of the items you plan to put into storage can help you determine the right size storage unit for your needs. Determining what items you need to store will help you decide whether you need a small or large storage unit. If you aren’t sure what storage unit size is appropriate for your belongings, refer to our storage size guide as a reference. If it turns out you don’t need a ton of space, opt for a small storage unit.
Store for Access
Once you’ve determined the right self storage unit size, you might find yourself wondering how to pack a self-storage unit. The key component of the answer to this question is to use intention! Think about what you are putting into your unit and store according to what you will need access to. Of course, logically thinking, items that you will need frequent access to should be placed near the front, while items that you may not need ready access to on a regular basis should be placed towards the rear. Consider adding shelving to reach smaller boxes with more ease.
To save yourself a headache, it can also be helpful to leave an access lane or lanes within your self storage space, especially if you have heavy items that you will need. You’ll want to be able to freely walk to the rear of your storage unit, even if you don’t foresee yourself needing to do so all the time. This will save you time, energy, and frustration down the road.
Labels are Your Friends
You might not be the type of person that labels things around your home or office, but when it comes to self storage, labels can be an excellent resource for storage unit organization. Labels provide helpful reminders for what exactly you have in storage. This is especially useful if you’re planning on using your storage unit for long-term storage. The use of clear, direct labeling can help you organize your stored items by things you need ready access to, as well as help you store similar items together. Make it easier for your future self by taking the time to label boxes now. You will thank yourself later when you can distinguish your wardrobe box from your kitchen fine china.
Find the Right Self Storage Facility for Your Needs
Once you are done taking inventory, you should have a firm idea of the things you plan on storing and roughly what size storage unit you’ll need. In addition to this information, take a moment to consider what features you’ll need in a self storage unit.
If some of the items you are storing are sensitive to fluctuations in temperature or humidity, it will probably be in your best interest to seek out a facility that offers a climate-controlled storage unit. Price Self Storage has two storage options that feature climate-controlled units, including Arrow Route and Haven Avenue.
Security is also an important consideration. You’ll want a self storage facility that prioritizes security so that you can have peace of mind with your belongings in a self-storage unit. Facilities that have computerized gate access that requires authentication for valid customers are always a smart choice. Price Self Storage utilizes such a system at all facilities and also has video surveillance and individual door alarms on select units.
Other features that can make loading or unloading your self storage space more convenient include moving carts and drive-up units. Access to carts to move your heavy items from your moving truck or vehicle to your unit will save you both time and energy. Additionally, if access or location is a key concern of yours, be sure to find a storage facility that offers drive-up units since these will allow you to quickly load and unload your moving boxes to and from your vehicle. At Price Self Storage, we know how important these features can be, so we have an extensive selection of ground-floor storage options with drive-up access and courtesy carts to help you with the transportation of any items!
Closing Thoughts
Our top storage unit tips are intended to help you find the right self storage solution for your needs and improve your self-storage experience. To help find the best-sized unit for your belongings, be sure to take the time beforehand to visualize what you’ll need to store and determine roughly the size of the unit that will be appropriate. Choose a self storage company that offers the right combination of features, location, and security to match what you’re looking for in your short-term or long-term storage use.
When you store your items, make access an organizing principle. Place things you’ll need regular access to close to the front while leaving lanes within your storage unit for access to other small items deeper in the unit. Take the time to inventory and label boxes so that you can quickly identify and access what you need.
The journey to a successful self-storage experience is one that is approachable and simple to navigate! Follow the essential tips and tricks outlined here to get started today, and contact the Price Self Storage Concierge Service with any other help or questions.
Sources
- https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/9-tips-for-using-rental-storag-124239
- https://dengarden.com/misc/Tips-For-Renting-A-Storage-Unit
- https://www.apartmenttherapy.com/things-you-should-know-before-renting-a-public-storage-space-164488
