Access Self Storage Blog

Easy Strategies for an Organized Storage Unit

Whether you are going to declutter your home, prepare for a move, or store seasonal items, don't underestimate how important it is to have an organization plan in place. The last thing you want is a storage unit packed full of items with no idea how to find anything -- or even what you have stored.

Storage Tips

Pack Items Properly

The first step to storage unit organization? Good packing. Make sure you fill boxes to capacity, as half-full boxes can shift during the move. Make sure you distribute the weight evenly and avoid boxes that are too heavy to lift. Wrap any fragile items separately in their own boxes, and fill any gaps with packing peanuts. Always mark items that are fragile to avoid damage in the move.

Label Boxes

All boxes should be labeled on every side. You may want to label your boxes by room or item type. It can help to also assign a number to every box and storage container. As you pack your belongings, keep an itemized record of what is in every box. This makes it easier to find something in your storage unit later.

Maximize Storage Space

As you pack items in your self-storage unit, think about how you can maximize what you have. If you plan to store a freezer or refrigerator, you may want to clean it out and store items inside. Be sure to tape a label to the door to note what’s inside. You can also store items inside a dresser, washing machine, or bookcases.

Keep a Diagram

Make a diagram of the inside of your storage unit that shows you where everything is located. Do this when you move into the unit so that your memory is fresh. Make one copy to keep at home and tape another to the inside the door or to a box in the front. This way, you can quickly refer to your diagram when you need to find something in storage.

Use an App

There are several apps designed to make moving and storing items as easy as possible. One example is Moving Day, which helps you catalog items as you pack them for storage. You can also use the app to track the value of your belongings and store photos in the event that you need to make an insurance claim.

Keep Valuables Safe

A storage plan and good organization can help you protect your valuables in self storage. Make sure you choose a self-storage facility with good security, and consider a climate-controlled unit if you have items that are sensitive to humidity, heat, or cold.

Access Self Storage has locations throughout New Jersey and serves surrounding areas. This includes larger cities such as Franklin Lakes and smaller towns such as Wyckoff, Allendale, and many others. See all of our locations by clicking here.

Other Articles for You

A small green ceramic piggy bank sits on top of a calculator.
Navigating the Challenges of Rising Economic Costs

Groceries are more expensive than they used to be. Home prices are significantly higher than they were a few years ago. Automotive prices are up, insurance rates are up, and…

Read
A couple looks over their records as they file their tax returns.
Common Tax Filing Mistakes and How To Avoid Them

Whether it’s your first time filing taxes or you’re a seasoned pro, the process can feel overwhelming. Between organizing financial documents and navigating deductions and credits, there’s a lot to…

Read
A mattress preparing to be stored.
How to Store a Mattress the Right Way

Maybe your college student’s room is going to become your fabulous new home gym, or it’s time for that twin bed to become a double. What should you do with the old mattress? It’s still in good shape, but you don’t want to throw it out—and what if your kid moves back home after college? What if you never use the exercise equipment and decide to turn the space into a guest room instead? (It’s been known to happen!)

Read
Two professional movers in overalls carry a mattress down a flight of stairs.
Hiring Movers vs. DIY: The Best Way To Move a Mattress

Moving can be an exciting time, but figuring out the best way to move large items like a mattress may catch you by surprise. Looking over all the various price…

Read