Renting a self-storage unit is a great way of clearing space in your home or keeping items safe whilst moving or renovating. However, once you’ve packed everything up and placed it in storage, it can be a challenge to keep things organised. Without a proper system, finding specific items can become a challenge, and over time, your neatly packed space might turn into an unorganised mess.
At Self Stor, we understand the importance of keeping your self-storage unit tidy and accessible, so here are some of the best ways to organise your unit for easy access…
Create a Detailed Inventory
Before you even start moving items into your self-storage unit, take the time to create a detailed inventory. Make a list of everything you plan to store, and group items by category. Whether it’s furniture, seasonal items, or valuable possessions, having a clear idea of what’s in your unit will save you time and stress in the future. You can keep a copy on your phone or in a notebook so it’s easily accessible when you visit your unit.
Clearly Label Everything
Labelled boxes are key to staying organised. Use sturdy boxes and label each one on multiple sides, so you can read the labels no matter how you stack them. Be specific with your labelling, instead of just writing something generic like ‘kitchen’, list the exact items like ‘cutlery, mugs, glasses, kettle’. By doing this, when you need something, you won’t have to go through multiple boxes to find it.
Use Clear Plastic Containers
For things you might need access to more often, consider using clear plastic containers instead of cardboard boxes. These allow you to see what’s inside without having to open them. They’re also more durable and stackable, making them a great option for long-term storage.
Plan a Route
Whilst it’s tempting to fill every bit of space in your self-storage unit, leaving a small aisle can make a huge difference in accessing your belongings. Plan a route from the front to the back of your unit to allow you to reach boxes or items that are stored further inside without having to shift everything in the front.
Use Shelving Units
Investing in freestanding shelving is an excellent way to keep things organised and off the floor. Shelving units make it easy to stack boxes or containers without them collapsing under the weight of one another. You can place heavier items on the bottom shelves and lighter, more fragile items on top.
Store Vertically
Make the most of the vertical space in your self-storage unit. Use tall shelving units, or stack boxes and containers from floor to ceiling. By going upwards, you maximise the storage potential of your unit without cluttering the floor, which gives you more space to move around freely.
Place Your Most Used Items at the Front
If there are items you know you’ll need more regularly, like seasonal clothes, tools, or equipment, store these closer to the front of your unit. That way, you won’t need to dig through your entire unit to find them, saving you time and effort.
Take Apart Large Items
Large furniture like beds, tables, or desks can take up a lot of space in your self-storage unit. If possible, disassemble these items before putting them in storage. This will allow you to store them and make it easier to arrange the rest of your belongings around them.
Utilise Empty Spaces in Furniture
If you’re storing furniture such as wardrobes, cabinets, or drawers, don’t leave them empty. Use these spaces to store smaller items, such as blankets, pillows, or kitchenware. Remember to label where you’ve placed items so you can find them later without any hassle.
Rotate Your Items as Needed
If you’re using your storage unit for seasonal items, make sure to rotate them throughout the year. For example, after winter, move your summer gear to the front and your winter clothes and Christmas stuff to the back. This will keep your self-storage unit organised and ensure the most relevant items are always easily accessible.
No Hassle, Easy Access Self-Storage Units in Beverley & Hull
At Self Stor, we believe that organisation is the key to making the most of your storage space. If you need any help or want to know more about our safe, secure, and reliable storage units in Beverley and Hull, get in touch today. Our team at Self Stor is always here to help!