Security Public Storage renters use self-storage units for a variety of reasons. From transitions between homes to commercial storage for your local business, self-storage provides a convenient option when you need more space. If you plan on visiting your storage unit frequently, it’s important to create a functional space for easy accessibility. This month, we provide tips for making the space inside your storage unit as organized, functional and accessible as possible.

Storage Unit Organization Tips

Planning ahead and organizing your unit optimally in the beginning will save you time and increase convenience long term.

1. Identify Frequently Accessed Items

outdoor gear in storage Consider what you will need to access most often. This will vary for personal and business storage, but knowing what you have and how often you’ll need to get at it is helpful for both types of customers. Creating an inventory and diagram of all of your items would make Marie Kondo proud, but find an organizational method that works best for you.

Personal storage customers might frequently access:

  • Summer and winter clothing
  • Camping gear
  • Holiday decorations
  • Tools and craft supplies
  • Children’s toys

Business storage customers will likely access the following items most often:

  • Extra inventory
  • Office supplies
  • Documents
  • Marketing materials

Creating a master list of all of the items in your storage unit on a piece of paper or in a spreadsheet on your computer will help you locate specific items, especially if your things are packed in similar boxes or containers.

2. Plan an Organized Layout

Before you plan the layout of your storage unit, you should know the exact dimensions in order to accurately plan how to best use the space. Once you know the measurements, put some thought into how frequently you will access your unit and what items you will need most often. Ideally, you want to create paths within your storage unit to make access as easy as possible. Furniture and other large items should typically be stored against the walls, leaving a path in the middle of the space. Items you use frequently should face the path and be simple to remove when you need them.

4. Invest in Shelving and Organizational Furniture

For long-term storage, line the walls of your unit with sturdy shelving. Large plastic, metal or wood shelving units that stand on the ground can help you efficiently organize your space for maximum functionality. Large or oddly shaped items that may not fit in boxes can be stored on shelves.

Shelving also helps you maximize the vertical space in your storage unit. A tall shelving unit allows you to take better advantage of the space above your head. If you opt to use the vertical space in your storage unit, it may be worth keeping a folding ladder or step stool inside with your belongings.

5. Use Clear Plastic Bins for Better Visibility

Cardboard boxes are great to use in a storage unit, but for renters who frequently access their belongings, clear plastic bins provide better visibility. Using clear plastic bins allows you to easily identify what’s inside your storage unit without having to dig through every box. Consider using clear plastic containers of similar sizes for easy stacking and organization.

6. Elevate Your Belongings with Pallets

Elevate your belongings off the ground to reduce their vulnerability to spills and leaks. Use wood or plastic pallets to ensure your boxes, furniture and boxes aren’t resting directly on the ground. This is especially important with cardboard boxes and materials most vulnerable to moisture.

7. Label Each Box and Be Specific

Be specific and detailed when labeling your boxes and other containers. If you are creating an inventory or master list, you may want to number each of the boxes on the top and on at least one side. Include the room the items were packed from, the contents of the box and the unique box number. This will help you find specific items quickly. On your master list, note which box number an item is in and where it’s located in the storage unit.

Organize Your Storage Unit for Frequent Access

storage inventory list Organizing your storage unit for maximum efficiency takes time and consideration, but if you frequently access the space, you will appreciate the effort in the long run. Shelving allows you to more efficiently utilize the vertical space of your storage unit and to create clear pathways for easier accessibility. Whether picking up extra chairs to bring to your restaurant or switching out seasonal clothing or sports equipment, an organized and functional space will make your storage experience easier and less stressful.

Do you need help choosing the right size of storage unit? Visit our Size Guide or contact the site manager at the SPS storage facility nearest you!

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