Whether you’re moving to a new home or just trying to declutter your current space, the need for extra storage often becomes essential. That’s where self storage comes in to save the day! If you’ve found yourself Googling “self storage near me,” you’re probably ready to begin organising and packing for your self storage unit. Before you start putting boxes into a rental space, let’s review some helpful tips that will make packing for a move or storage much easier. With a little planning, packing for a move can be simple, and you’ll be able to maximize your storage space while keeping your possessions safe and easily accessible.
Choose the Right Size Self Storage Unit
The first question is – how much space do you actually need? It’s easy to underestimate (or overestimate) how much room your stuff will take up, but choosing the right size self storage unit is crucial for both cost and convenience. Most storage facilities will offer a range of sizes, from small lockers to large garage-like units. Take an inventory of what you’ll be storing. Will it just be a few boxes of clothes and decorations, or do you need to fit in larger items like furniture and appliances? Stacking items and utilising vertical space can help you maximise storage, but you’ll want enough room to access your stuff at any stage with minimum hassle.
If you’re unsure, consider consulting the storage facility’s staff—they can recommend the best size based on your needs. Many people also start by searching for “self storage near me” to see what’s available locally and how much space they offer.Declutter Before You Pack
Packing for a move or self storage during a move is the perfect opportunity to declutter your belongings. There’s no point in paying to store things you don’t want or need! Take a critical look at your possessions and ask yourself if they’re worth the storage space.
Go through each room and create piles of items to donate, throw away, or sell. By slimming down what you’re putting into storage, you’re saving yourself time and money. Plus, it will make the moving process smoother when it’s time to retrieve those items later.Get Quality Packing Supplies
A key part of packing for self storage—and really any move—is having the right supplies on hand. You’ll want sturdy boxes, packing tape, bubble wrap, and markers to label everything. Skimping on quality packing materials might save some money upfront, but the risk of your items getting damaged isn’t worth it.
When it comes to boxes, aim for uniformity. Using the same size or a few standard sizes makes stacking easier and more stable. This is especially important in self storage units, where you’ll want to make the most of every square inch. Be sure to tape the bottoms securely, especially for heavier items, and use bubble wrap or padding for anything fragile.Don’t forget mattress and furniture covers if you’re storing larger pieces. These protect your items from dust, moisture, and potential damage. Think of it as an extra insurance policy for your prized possessions.
Label Everything Clearly
Labeling your boxes is one of the simplest but most effective packing tips for self storage. You don’t want to spend hours digging through boxes looking for your kitchen gadgets when it’s time to unpack. Mark each box clearly with its contents and which room it belongs to.
If you’re feeling extra organised, you could even create a list or a spreadsheet of what’s inside each box and where it’s stored in the unit. That way, if you need to retrieve a specific item, you can go straight to it without any hassle.Pack Strategically
When packing for a move or self storage unit, there’s a bit of an art to it. Start by placing heavier, sturdier items on the bottom and lighter, more fragile things on top. Use furniture and appliances as a base, but be mindful of their weight limits—no need to damage them by overloading!
If you have oddly shaped items, use soft things like blankets or towels to fill gaps and provide extra padding.
Think of your storage unit as a puzzle. The goal is to pack it efficiently but still have space to move around. If you need access to your goods regularly, make sure to pack frequently needed items toward the front. Seasonal items and clothes, or anything you won’t need for months, can go to the back.Disassemble Furniture When Possible
If you’re storing furniture, disassembling it can save loads of space. Remove legs from tables, take apart bed frames, and break down shelves. Keep all hardware in a labelled bag taped securely to the item so nothing gets lost.
Taking furniture apart also makes it easier to transport and ensures that larger items won’t scratch or dent during the move or while in storage. It’s all about being smart with your space, and this is one of the most effective ways to do it.Use Shelving Units in Your Storage Space
Maximise your self storage unit’s vertical space by adding free-standing shelving units. This simple trick helps keep things off the floor and more organised. Shelving can be particularly helpful for storing smaller boxes, tools, or anything you’ll want easy access to without unstacking a mountain of boxes.
It’s also a great way to keep fragile items safe. Instead of balancing them on top of heavier objects, place them securely on a shelf where they won’t be crushed.Plan for Easy Access
When you’re loading your self storage unit, think ahead to how often you’ll need to access certain items. Pack the things you won’t need anytime soon toward the back. Items you may need to grab sooner, such as off-season clothing or tools, should be toward the front.
By planning and organising your unit with access in mind, you’ll save yourself the hassle of shifting boxes every time you need something. Remember, moving made easy isn’t just about packing well, but about unpacking efficiently too!Consider Professional Help
You’re not alone if you feel overwhelmed by the packing process. Many people find packing for a move or self storage stressful. Hiring professional movers or packers can be a great way to take the load off (literally). They know all the tricks for packing efficiently, and they’ll ensure your belongings are protected and stored safely.
If your move is large, or if you simply don’t have the time or energy to handle it all yourself, don’t hesitate to call in some help.
In conclusion, packing for a self storage unit doesn’t have to be a daunting task. By choosing the right size unit, getting organised with your packing supplies, and planning, you’ll make the most of your space and keep your belongings safe. Can packing for a move be easy? When you pack smart it looks effortless!
Stop & Store Fareham: Self Storage Unit Nearby
For affordable self storage nearby when you are planning a move, please contact Stop & Store Fareham.
- Our storage facility is completely secured and protected by monitored CCTV cameras and intruder alarms, so you can be sure your belongings are safe.
- Purchase your packaging materials from our online Box Shop for your convenience.
- Our units vary in size from 12 sq ft to 200 sq ft, so please contact our friendly staff for advice.
- Our units are safe and dry.
Stop & Store Fareham is centrally situated in the Thackeray Mall, in the heart of the town. We are user friendly making the unloading and loading of your goods easy. Our road access is handy.
Address: Thackeray Mall, Unit C (First Floor) 26a, Fareham PO16 0PQ, United Kingdom
Tel: 01329 556174