Why pay for more storage space than is actually necessary? Make the most of your self storage space with these ideas that will help you pack (and stack) more effectively.
Plan, plan, plan
Knowing exactly what you’ll be storing gives you the opportunity to map out the space and how you can make the most of it. Consider having longer items along the walls and remember to use the full height of the unit to your advantage. Take measurements and have a mental (or drawn up) plan in place.
Think about how often you’ll need to access particular items in your unit
There is nothing more frustrating and time wasting than realising you’ve packed something important at the very back of the unit so need to pull half the contents out in order to get to it. Before you start packing into your unit, give some serious thought to what you’ll more than likely need to get to before the time comes to move out then pack these items together at the front.
Dismantle
Dismantling larger items or those with legs not only protects them more during the move, it means they’ll be easier to pack in and will waste less space. If you’ve got tables that you can’t take the legs off, consider placing them face down on the ground, with a protective mat or sheet underneath, so you can pack around them.
Heavy to light
It might seem obvious, but it’s worth mentioning. Larger, heavier items towards the back and on the ground to provide a base then stack lighter items on top. Make sure that everything is stable though, you don’t want the whole thing toppling over and your items being damaged. Avoid putting fragile items up high too, you don’t want to test fate.
Leave some space
It might seem counter intuitive, but leaving a little space around the walls allows for better air circulation and if there are quite a few things you’re likely to need to access (see idea #1) then leaving a small aisle so you can access the length of the unit is not a bad idea either. It doesn’t’ need to be huge, just enough for you to shimmy down safely if needed.
Think creatively
If you’re storing things like wardrobes, chests of drawers and cabinets, consider packing smaller boxes in them while they’re in storage. The space would be empty otherwise! Just remember to remove them before packing them back in the truck or trailer – there’s the potential for damage otherwise.
Call in the professionals
If you’re not confident that you can make the most of the space you’ve got, consider having a removalist do it for you. They are masters at making things fit in their trucks and can do the same for your storage unit.
We hope these tips get you thinking about how you can make the most of the amount of self storage space you’re renting. Just remember, if you’re doing the planning and have doubts about how it’s all going to fit, be sure to have a chat to our team. They’re happy to give advice based on many years experience and you’ve always got the option to upsize if necessary.
