Packing your storage unit is like putting a puzzle together without knowing how the picture is supposed to look. There’s trial and error, you try and build a the border of the puzzle, and sometimes force two pieces that don’t fit. The end result is a Picasso image of your possessions, skewed and hardly recognizable, but there is hope! Here are some tried-and-true ideas that will make your storage-unit experience stress-free and orderly.

1. Have a plan of attack

Create a list and inventory the items you’re going to store. It doesn’t have to include every single detail, but knowing generally what’s in each box and section of your unit can save you time and troubles down the line. That way, finding and accessing possessions becomes less a treasure hunt and more a science.

2. Label and fill to the fullest

Use a marker to clearly label each box, the larger the letters the better. Also fill each box to capacity. Both steps will allow you to quickly identify boxes and ensure that each box remains structurally sound when stacked.

3. An eye for future removal

Be sure to leave any boxes and items that you’ll need towards the front for easy access. You’ll save yourself time, energy, and loads of grief!

4. Biggest in the back

Bulky items such as furniture should be placed towards the back. It’s best to use the space as efficiently as possible, so flat items can rest against the wall, then work forward. If an item is too awkwardly shaped, don’t force it! Use the shape of each item to your advantage. Set aside any items that don’t fit well for later.

5. And all in between

With the bulk already in place, stack boxes (heaviest on the bottom) and fill in the empty space. Work towards the front ensuring that all the space is utilized. This will prevent items from shifting. Be sure to maximize your vertical space: stack high, but safe.

6. Odds and ends

Any odds and ends and items that don’t fit should be kept in the front, along with the items you may need to access sooner, rather than later.

Using some combination of these steps should make your storage unit a happy place. And remember, using LifeStorage offers you the peace of mind of safe and secure, clean, climate-controlled storage…how you choose to fill your unit is up to you, though!

For a comprehensive list of pointers, visit: http://www.self-storage-facilities.com/self-storage-facility.htm

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