Organize your storage unit like a pro
Storage preparationMarch 5, 2023
If you need space for your belongings, you should consider renting a storage unit. Even if you want to store some valuable, fragile, and even perishable goods, you can always count on a climate controlled storage unit. Either if you need a permanent or a temporary solution, this would be the best choice. However, once you start putting your items inside, you should be very careful with its organization. As a matter of fact, here you can find some tips on how to organize your storage unit.
Make an inventory list
When putting a large number of items in a storage unit, it is hard to remember all of them. You will probably remember some large items, such as sofas and beds while you will forget about smaller items like artwork and clothes. Because of this, it often happens that items people forget about remain in a storage unit longer.
So, in order to prevent this from happening, you should make an inventory list. By doing this, you will have a chance each time to check the list and see whether you need something or not. In addition to this, it is preferable to take photos of all of the items you plan on storing. This will help you easily remember what you have in your storage unit.
Store items in clear bins instead of boxes
Even though cardboard boxes are cheaper in comparison to clear bins, you should think about it. The main reason for this is that you will get a better insight into what is in what place. For example, if you come to your storage unit and you need one of your books, you will not know where to find it. On the other hand, if you use only cardboard boxes, you will have to open many of them until you find what you are looking for. Of course, you can also use cardboard boxes, but it is preferable to do so when one type of item is in question. Feel free to use them for your winter clothes, for example. Make sure you properly label the cardboard boxes and everything will be much easier.
If you are storing your furniture, disassemble it first
Something that will be of great help when you organize your storage unit is disassembling your furniture. You should take apart bed frames, headboards, and even table legs. Even though some of the items do not seem like they take up a lot of space, they actually do. This you will realize once you start organizing your unit. What you should do is store individual items in a vertical position towards the back of the storage unit.
In this way, you will get more floor space for other items. Also, they are easy to reassemble, so, whenever you need them, you will not spend too much time doing this. However, if your dining table does not come apart, you have nothing to worry about. You can use it as an extra shelf inside the storage unit for stacked boxes.
When you organize your storage unit, put large items on the bottom
Before you start putting items inside your storage unit, you should think about how to organize it. One of the most important things to remember is to put the large and heavy items on the bottom towards the back. For example, these can be heavy boxes and some pieces of furniture. The reason for doing this is simple- you will create a stable base for lighter items. After that, feel free to put lighter items on top of them. Should you do this the other way around, the lighter items will crush and you will have to throw them away. Of course, you should not forget that there are some items that you are not allowed to store. Make sure you know this in advance.
The items you need more frequently should be near the entrance
Even though you are renting student storage in Northern Virginia, you are going to need some of these items sooner or later. So, it is advisable to store near the entrance the items you are going to use more frequently. Once you need them, there will be no need for you to go through the whole unit to find them. Naturally, you should do the opposite with the items you do not plan on using often.
For example, if there is an extra bed you no longer have room for, you should store it first. Feel free to put seasonal items somewhere in the middle. Once you pack them, it is of paramount importance to label the boxes well. This is the only way in which you can find them in no time later. They will not be on your way but, at the same time, they will be easy to reach.
What if you are using onsite storage units
That is all fine when you are using a standard storage unit that has a lot of space. However, what if you decide to use onsite storage containers that are usually smaller than standard storage units? First of all, you should know that onsite storage units come with many benefits.
Benefits of using onsite storage units
- Security
- Convenience
- Cost-effectiveness
- Flexibility
- Weather-resistance
Security is one of the biggest benefits of using onsite storage
Our residential onsite storage containers provide a secure location to store equipment, tools, and materials. They are often made from durable steel and come with strong locks to keep your items safe. If you want to make sure that your items are safe, you can have them close to you at all times if you rent onsite storage.
Convenience is why this storage solution is so popular
Onsite storage containers are located right at your work site. This makes it easy to access your tools and materials whenever you need them. This will save you time and money that you would use on transportation.
Cost-effectiveness makes onsite storage very attractive
Renting or buying an onsite storage container can be a cost-effective solution. Especially compared to the cost of renting commercial storage space or leasing a warehouse. If you don’t want to spend a fortune on keeping your excess items, onsite storage is a perfect solution.
Flexibility is the reason why standard storage units are losing popularity
This is one of the biggest benefits of renting onsite storage. Containers come in a range of sizes and can be customized to meet your specific storage needs. Our company, for example, offers 10ft and 15ft storage containers. They can also be easily relocated to a new site if necessary.
Weather resistance is one of the hidden advantages of onsite storage containers
Onsite storage containers are typically designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, such as high winds and heavy snowfall. This means your tools and materials will be protected from the elements, keeping them in good condition for longer.
How to organize onsite storage units like a pro
As you can see, if we disregard the most obvious downside, the size, there are many benefits to using an onsite storage unit. If you decided to use this type of storage Norther Virginia moving and storage companies offer, here is how you can organize your storage unit like a pro:
- Plan ahead
- Group similar items together
- Use shelves or racks
- Label boxes and containers
- Leave space for aisles
Plan the entire layout before you begin loading your storage container
Before you start packing your items, take some time to plan out how you want to organize your storage unit. If you just start loading up your stuff without any particular plan, you won’t be able to do it properly for sure. This means that items you will need to access frequently and place them towards the front or, to simply put it, load them last.
If you group similar items together, you will have an easier time finding what you need in the future
To ensure that you can easily find what you need, organize your items into groups based on their type or usage. This is the most important part of the process so make sure that you spend the most time with this part. To group items effectively, consider their usage. For example, think about what items you need to access frequently, seasonal items, or items you don’t need to access often. Additionally, when grouping similar items, take the size of the items into account. You can group smaller items together in clear containers, while you can put larger items on shelves or racks.
To additionally organize your storage unit, make sure that you keep related items close to each other. For example, place all gardening tools in one area and automotive supplies in another. Also, when grouping items, think about weight. Place heavier items on lower shelves or directly on the floor. This will help avoid damage to other items.
Use shelves or racks to use the vertical space as much as possible
Consider using shelves or racks to maximize vertical space and keep your items organized. This can help you make the most of the available space and keep items off the ground. Of course, it all depends on what type of shelves you can install in the portable storage in Northern Virginia. Here are some ideas:
- Wire shelving is a popular choice when you want to organize your storage unit like a pro. It is durable, adjustable, and allows for good airflow. It is also relatively inexpensive and easy to install.
- Solid shelving is made of solid material, such as wood or metal, and is a good choice for heavier items that need extra support. It is also relatively easy to install and can be customized to fit your storage needs.
- Plastic shelving is lightweight and easy to move, making it a good choice for portable storage or temporary storage needs. It is also relatively inexpensive and easy to install.
- Floating shelves are attached to the wall without visible brackets or supports, making them a good choice for smaller spaces or decorative storage needs. They are also relatively easy to install and can be customized to fit your storage needs.
- Corner shelves are designed to fit into corners and can be a good choice for maximizing storage space in small areas. They are also relatively easy to install and can be customized to fit your storage needs.
- Overhead storage racks are suspended from the ceiling and can be a good choice for storing items that are not needed frequently. They are also a good option for maximizing vertical storage space and keeping the floor clear. However, installation can be more complex and may require professional help.
Label boxes and containers to avoid future problems
Labeling boxes and containers can help you to identify what is inside each container and find what you need quickly. Be sure to label each box or container clearly and include a brief description of the contents. For this, you can simply write directly on boxes and containers, use sticker labels on which you will write, or you can find printed labels.
Don’t forget to leave space for aisles
Leave enough space between your items to create aisles for easy access. This will make it easier to find what you need and reduce the risk of damaging your items.
Organizing a storage unit like a pro is not easy but it is highly beneficial
Renting a storage unit from Zippy Shell Moving and Storage DMV is not all that it takes. Before you start putting your belongings inside you should first think about how to organize your storage unit. As you have had a chance to see, the steps for doing this are not complicated at all. You should just be practical and think in advance. Once you start doing this, you will realize that it is quite helpful and you may even think of some new ways on your own. Later on, when there is a need for a certain item from your storage, you will thank yourself for good organization.