Determine which storage unit type fits your specific needs
Start your journey by taking a good long look at the different items you intend to place in storage. You probably have a rough idea of the space you want in a storage unit, but try to keep in mind that you probably want to rent a unit that provides a little extra room. After all, you want to be able to move around your belongings inside the unit when adding or removing items so you probably don’t want items filling the space top to bottom, wall to wall.
Label boxes on all sides
It seems like such a simple thing, but it’s one people forget. Don’t label your boxes only on the top and call it a day. Label the box and include a small list of what’s inside.
And do this on every side of the box! That way, you’ll know what’s inside even if the box is in a stack and not easily accessible.
Don’t overpack boxes
For safety reasons, don’t overpack your boxes. When packing books, use small book boxes. Otherwise, the boxes get too heavy. When you’re moving and stacking boxes, you’ll hurt your back if they weigh too much.
Use high-quality, sturdy packing boxes meant for moving. Standard-size boxes are easier when it comes to moving and stacking.
Pack fragile things the right way
One of the biggest musts when packing fragile items is wrapping each individual piece up in protective material. This takes more time, but time well spent.
Bubble wrap and tape are great for fragile items. And it’s always best to overwrap than under wrap, so when in doubt, wrap it more than once. Keeping your fragile items from shifting and breaking is important. To do this, make sure to fill in all empty spaces inside the storage bin with protective material.
Use vertical space
Don’t stack boxes so high that it’s dangerous, but do stack them several boxes high. Be creative about storing furniture. Are you storing a couch? Turn it vertically and store it on end. Don’t be afraid to put some narrow tall shelving along the walls. Load boxes onto the shelves. Remember to leave a little bit of space between the shelf and the wall for ventilation. Put the things you might need near the front of the storage unit.