When storing items long-term rather than for a few short weeks, it can be easy to let them sit untouched or forgotten. Once you start pulling out your belongings again, your storage unit can end up looking unfamiliar, especially if you rushed to pack it when you dropped things off. This can also lead to rummaging through every box or bin to find what you need. But how do you avoid the stress and time-consuming work that poor packing decisions create?
Start with organization and intentional planning. Whether you already have a storage unit that is disorganized or you just rented a storage unit and feel the need to choose speed over precision packing, it’s best to take the time to properly organize and store your belongings. Save time and effort with these considerations.
Choosing the Right Boxes and Packing Materials
When it comes to choosing packing supplies, quality materials reign supreme over those that are cheap and easy. For long-term storage, it’s even more true. Clear plastic bins are great for easy scanning, as you can see what’s inside quickly. If you choose a cardboard box, make sure it’s high-quality. Many storage facilities sell quality cardboard box kits. Opting for printed labels over handwritten scrawls across boxes allows easy reuse of boxes as well as an easier time deciphering what’s inside. This is extra important in larger units where boxes and bins stack up over time.
Creating a Smart Storage Layout
You may feel that in order to maximize the use of your storage space, you need to fill every square foot.e. While that’s understandable, you may end up blocking access to important belongings. Don’t forget about vertical space, which can help you size-wise when choosing a storage unit with the right dimensions for you.
Create a layout that includes narrow walkways inside the unit with the most used or important items placed in the front. This will make your storage unit much easier to navigate and can reduce the amount of time you spend digging through boxes to get what you need. Be sure to place heavier boxes on the bottom, even if they hold commonly-accessed items, to prevent any box stacks from tipping over.
If you need more ideas for how to maximize your storage space, here are a few of our favorites you get you started:
- Use sturdy boxes/tubs
- Stack vertically
- Use empty drawers to organize items
- Keep walkways open
See also: Fire Risk Assessment: A Complete Guide for Businesses
Tips for Properly Storing Belongings
Tucson’s heat is no joke, so knowing how to properly store your items is key to maintaining them during long-term storage, even if you opt for a climate-controlled unit. You should cover wooden furniture with breathable materials instead of only using plastic wrap. Mattresses should stay upright when possible. Kitchenware and glass items should have padding between the layers if stacked on top of one another. You can place commonly-used items near the front of your unit so you can access them as needed.
Preparing for Easy Access Later
Take the time to think ahead before you fill your storage unit, especially if you only take periodic trips to storage.In order to prevent forgetting where you put things or what you even have, keep an inventory list on your phone, number boxes, and store seasonal items in organized sections. If you use CubeSmart in Tucson, you can find that a well-organized, climate-controlled unit makes future visits much faster and far less stressful.
