Store More: Strategic Solutions for Your Storage Unit

shutterstock_580022When available storage space in a home or apartment is limited, many people find great value in renting a storage unit.  You can get the biggest bang for your storage buck by packing and stashing smart.

Before you spend money on containers and invest your time in packing, consider these tips to help you make the most of your storage unit:

Be Careful With Quantity
Overstuffing any single container can have several drawbacks.  First, you don’t want a container to become so heavy that it is difficult to move around.  You also shouldn’t have to really dig through a container to find an item you want.  It is better to have several smaller containers that are carefully categorized than one large container crammed with a wide variety of objects. It is a great idea to create neat piles of related items to pack before spending money on any containers.  This will help you decide what size of containers will be best for your items.

Labels and Lists
A little planning can go a long way when it comes to storage.  Taking the time to sort through and categorize your items now will really save you frustration down the road. Make sure your containers are clearly labeled with enclosed items listed on the outside. A numerical navigation list can also be very helpful.  You can assign a number to each container and keep your containers organized accordingly inside the storage unit.  Hang a single list of numbered containers and their contents on the wall of your storage unit for quick reference when you need to retrieve an item.

Quality Counts
You have many options when choosing sizes and materials for your storage containers.  While cardboard boxes can be inexpensive and easy to find, they offer less protection for your items and aren’t as convenient as other container options.  If you really want to make sure your belongings are safe from dust, moisture and insects, you will be better off investing in high quality plastic containers that have a tightly sealed lid.  For precious photos or other irreplaceable items, you may want to take protection one step further by investing in a fireproof safe.

Up, Up, and Away!
Freestanding vertical organization solutions can be one of the most effective ways to maximize the usable space in your storage unit.  Most storage units do not give you the option to hang hooks or shelves on the walls.  Freestanding shelves and racks solve this problem by allowing you to utilize vertical space without damaging the unit in any way.  These also make retrieving items easier because containers won’t be stacked directly on top of each other.

Garage Décor & More can help you organize an existing storage unit or create a customized plan if you’re getting ready to move things to a new storage unit.

 Call me today for a FREE consultation.

618-789-7969