Storage Unit Organization: Preparation, Tips, and More
Whether you rent a closet-sized 5x5x4 storage locker or a garage-sized 10x20 unit, keeping your storage space neat, tidy, and organized well is essential. Without good storage unit organization, maximizing the space and finding what you need inside will be challenging. Organizing storage units allows for easy access and protection of your valuable items so that they last longer and stay in good condition.
Stop & Stor shares storage tips for storage units to help you properly pack your rental and organize everything inside safely, efficiently, and conveniently.
Preparing Your Storage Unit
Before moving anything into your storage, ensure that it is thoroughly cleaned so that any lingering dirt or debris does not get in the way of your furniture, boxes, and bins. This is a necessary storage and organizing step regardless of whether you have rented a standard or climate-controlled unit.
Rather than organizing storage boxes made from cardboard, consider plastic storage bins instead. Plastic bins let you see the contents inside and last longer than cardboard. They can be sealed with locking lids to reduce the likelihood of pests and dirt getting inside, and they are easier to stack in a unit without the risk of collapsing.
This is also an ideal time to consider installing shelving units to stack small items vertically without taking up unnecessary floor space. We recommend putting small boxes and items on the shelves and items that you anticipate needing easy access to while they are in storage.
Packing Your Storage Unit
For efficient storage unit organization, disassemble bulky furniture so it doesn’t take up as much space. Clean the pieces before putting them inside the unit, and cover furniture with old sheets to prevent dust accumulation.
For electronics storage and organization, place technology devices in plastic storage bins and cables in separate waterproof bags. It's also a smart idea to back up your data and files before storing computers and other electronics.
When organizing storage boxes with books, pack them flat to prevent pages from warping, and wrap valuable books in acid-free archival paper.
Appliance storage and organizing involves draining water from hoses and tanks to prevent moisture spills and mold growth. Check appliances for any signs of pest activity and clean them as well as possible.
Ensure you have sturdy plastic containers and plenty of bubble wrap for dishes and other delicate items. We carry packing supplies for your convenience at our storage unit locations. Any antiques or breakables should be stored on shelves or stacked on top of heavier boxes.
Organizing Your Storage Unit
One of our most crucial storage tips for storage units is to label your boxes well. Not remembering what you put in your boxes can be frustrating or having to sift through multiple boxes to find what you're looking for. To take your labeling one step further, create an inventory that details box numbers and the contents of each box. You can also create a simple map or sketch of your storage unit to make it easier to find boxes inside in the future.
Another important part of storage unit organization is stacking items with the heaviest items on the bottom and smaller and lighter boxes on top of them. To save space, lightweight pieces of furniture, such as end tables, may also be possible to stack on study boxes.
Prioritize space for items you may need sooner than others by putting them in front of long-term storage items. A good storage and organization strategy also involves creating a center aisle in your unit so that you can walk through the space for better accessibility.
Get Started with Storage and Organizing
We hope you have found these storage unit organization tips helpful and now understand the importance and key strategies for storage and organization.
At Stop & Stor, we make it convenient and affordable to store your belongings with us at our many New York locations. Our storage units and lockers are clean, secure, and available at great prices for your budget and lifestyle.
Please browse available units, contact us online, or call us at 718-898-8000 to put your new storage and organization knowledge to good use!
Established in 1980, Stop & Stor is a family owned and operated business that has become New York’s Self Storage Leader by offering cutting-edge facilities in the Bronx, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island.
TO FIND ONE OF OUR LOCATIONS NEAR YOU, SELECT YOUR BOROUGH:
Storage prices our competitors can’t beat. Act fast, these storage deals last for a limited time only. Reserve now and lock in the best storage price for a FULL YEAR – GUARANTEED. Contact Stop & Stor today to learn more about our storage options.