How to Organize a Storage Unit

Like with any closet, it's tempting to simply throw your belongings inside a storage unit with no organization plan whatsoever. Tempting, yes, but then what happens when you need to find something? Don't open your storage unit with that awful mixture of fear and embarrassment. It only takes a little planning and preparation to organize a storage units san Antonio so that you can always find just what you're looking for. Plus, you can feel confident that it is clean, safe, and efficient.

The process starts with packing, that dreaded but necessary process. Take your time with it and be thoughtful, starting with grouping and labeling. Similar objects all belong in the same box. Take it room by room, keeping all your kitchen items together, your office supplies together, etc. That way, you can easily label each box. When you label, use a thick marker and write on the top as well as all four sides (so that no matter where it's placed, the contents are obvious). Use words that clearly define what's inside the box. Sometimes, you'll only need one word (ex: books) and other times, when the box is full of miscellaneous stuff, you'll need more (ex: airplane magazines, art projects, and old t-shirts). Be specific with your word choice so that when you do come looking for those airplane magazines, you'll know exactly where to find them, and use words like Fragile and Heavy when applicable. And finally, be sure to pack the whole box so that once you begin stacking, the boxes won't collapse.

Next, you'll need to plan how to organize a storage unit. Don't wait until moving day, when your exhaustion and impatience could lead to bad decisions. You'll want to consider:

• Which objects are heavy and need to be on bottom?
• Which are fragile and need a safe space on top?
• Can your furniture be disassembled for a tighter fit?
• Can your large items (like an armoire) fit smaller items (boxes) inside?
• What sort of pathway will you use? No items should be completely blocked off.
• Which items will you be accessing often (and thus should be located near the front)? Which will be used very rarely (and can be assigned a space in the back)?

Write this organization plan down (or draw it) so that later, you can use it like a treasure map and easily find your belongings.

Now that you've packed and prepared, let's look at what should happen on moving day. First, you should follow your organization plan well and if you do make changes, note them. Then, consider using raised pallets to keep boxes off the floor, moisturize absorbers to keep the unit dry, and rat bait and mothballs for pests. With these tips, you'll be able to organize a storage unit that is clean, uncluttered, and easy to access.