When renting a storage unit, you want to make sure to keep things clean and organized and maximize space at the same time. A well-organized storage unit can also bring peace to your hectic schedule, as you wouldn’t have to spend hours in your space searching for an item that you need.

An unorganized storage unit is also one of the reasons why you could run out of storage space. Here are some tips on how to organize a storage unit:

1. Plan Everything Ahead

Everything starts with planning. Before you begin storing items in your unit, plan your layout. Group similar items and decide where they will be stored. Create sections or zones. Place items you frequently use in the front and those for long-term storage at the back.

By planning everything ahead, you can estimate how much space will be left and ensure easy access to all your items when you need them.

2. Go Vertical: Store Things Vertically

It may seem easier to store things horizontally in your storage unit, but doing so will not save up a lot of space. When storing items in your storage unit, think vertically.

Utilize the full height of your unit and stack boxes or bins all the way to the top. Additionally, keep furniture upright, hang things, and consider investing in racks or shelving units (more of this is discussed below).

It’s also important to remember to store items safely. So, if you are stacking boxes or plastic bins, make sure that the heavy ones are on the bottom, while the lighter ones are on the top.

3. Disassemble Large Furniture

Large furniture can take up a lot of space in your unit. So, to maximize space, disassemble furniture such as headboards, bed frames, table legs, or other large items before putting them inside your storage unit.

Make sure to keep the assembly instructions and put screws or other small parts beside the corresponding furniture piece for reassembly. You can then position the furniture vertically towards the back of the storage unit for more space for other items. Make sure to also cover them to protect them from dirt or scratches.

Disassembling furniture does not just help maximize space. It can actually prevent damage to your furniture as well. It will also be easier for you to move them. So, don’t forget to break down your furniture before putting it in storage.

4. Make Use of Furniture Storage (Store Items Inside Each Other)

There may be furniture that you cannot disassemble, such as cabinets, dressers, or wardrobes. You can make use of their drawers for additional storage. Use their drawers to store smaller items. In this way, you are getting extra storage within your storage unit.

Additionally, you can do the same for other items that may offer additional storage. For instance, if you will be putting suitcases inside your storage unit, you can put clothing or other small items inside them. Putting items inside other items will definitely help you make the most out of your space and keep things organized.

5. Use Uniform Containers or Cardboard Boxes

When storing items, it’s always recommended that you use clear plastic bins or cardboard boxes. Clear plastic bins are sturdier and resistant to damage. It’s also easier for you to look for your items if they are stored in plastic bins.

Cardboard boxes, on the other hand, are cheaper, and they will help you save money, especially if you have a lot of items to store.

But whether you decide to use clear plastic bins or cardboard boxes, to save space and keep things organized, make sure that the containers or boxes you use are of the same size. This will also make stacking and arranging easier and safer.

Just remember that the heavier ones should be at the bottom, and containers or boxes with lighter items should be placed above.

Additionally, do not forget to label everything. Labeling will make things easier for you to locate items. You also will not have to open all those plastic bins or boxes just to retrieve an item you are looking for. But most importantly, if you are packing glassware and ceramics, label the boxes with “Fragile” on visible sides or “This Side Up”.

6. Consider Using Shelving Units

While they may be an added cost, shelving units are a game-changer when it comes to organizing and maximizing space. As mentioned earlier, you must go vertical, and shelving units will help you with that.

Shelving units are actually very useful in many ways – they help keep your items organized and safe. Since your items will be off the floor, they will be safe from bugs. Using shelving units will also prevent items from breaking. It’s a safer option rather than stacking boxes on top of each other.

Additionally, shelving units give you easier access to your items. You wouldn’t have to go through all your plastic bins or boxes just to retrieve something. You can easily take something out of storage if you invest in shelving units.

Even one shelf will already make a difference and help you organize all your belongings. You can even put labels or signs on your shelving units to make things easier for you.

7. Create Aisles or Pathways for Easy Access

Create pathways or an aisle in the center for easy access to your belongings. Leave space between stacks of boxes and furniture so that you can walk freely and easily find what you are looking for. If you are using shelving units, make sure to arrange them in a way that creates paths so that you can move freely and easily access items you need.

8. Choose the Right Storage Unit

There are many benefits of having an organized storage unit – you can save time and you can be assured that your items will remain in good condition. An organized unit also means more space.

However, it may be difficult to do some organizing if you do not pick the right storage unit, taking into consideration the size of the unit you need and whether your items require climate-controlled storage.

Extra Space can help you find the storage unit you need. We offer storage units of various sizes, 24-hour security, and a climate-controlled environment. Learn more about our facilities and services here. We can assist you with your storage needs. Contact us today!