Are you finding it challenging to get the most out of your self storage unit?
Maybe you’re worried you’re not fully utilising the available space, or perhaps your unit feels like it’s filling up too fast due to inefficient packing methods.
Whatever the situation, this article is here to help. Discover five practical tips to optimise your storage space and make the most of every square inch.
First, the easiest way to maximise your space is to ensure that your belongings or products are stored in the most efficient way possible.
It's tempting to stack items as quickly as possible—after all, packing isn’t everyone’s favourite task! However, rushing the process can lead to significant challenges later on. Even if you initially organised your unit with care, over time, things can become cluttered and inefficient.
To avoid this, start by creating a clear floor plan for your storage unit. Make sure to revisit and adjust this plan regularly to maintain order and maximise efficiency.
When organising a storage unit, it's easy to concentrate solely on the floor space, overlooking the valuable vertical space available. However, utilising the full height of your unit can significantly increase its capacity and improve overall organisation.
Consider incorporating shelving units to create multiple tiers of storage. You can also use hanging storage solutions, like hooks or racks, for items such as tools, sports gear, or bags. These additions help you take advantage of every inch of space, not just the floor.
Vertical storage is especially useful for lighter, infrequently used items, such as holiday decorations. Storing these items up high keeps them out of the way, reduces clutter, and prevents potential damage from being crushed under heavier objects. By thinking vertically, you’ll maximise your storage space and keep your belongings safe and accessible.
One other issue that can often derail the organisation of a busy storage unit is that some things need to be taken out of the unit more frequently than others.
If these things are not readily available, it can mean that other items are moved and then not put back, causing more precious space to be taken up than necessary.
One handy system you could use is to place this in a logical location based on the rooms in your house. For example, you could store all of your living room items together, and your kitchen, and so on. That way, when you unpack, you can place each box in the necessary room, greatly reducing the time it takes in unpack.
You could also opt for one of the LIFO (Last In, First Out), or FIFO (First In, First Out) approaches. So for LIFO, you could stack or load items in a system that allows you to reach the last items first, and then ensure that those items are the ones you will need first when unpacking.
How much space you need within your unit may differ depending on several circumstances. However, rather than constantly changing units, or not maximising the space you have available, why not use the empty space in other ways?
Perhaps you have a burning desire to do more painting or artwork? The extra space could be a great opportunity to find your style without getting paint on the living room floor!
Of course, if you are getting creative, be sure to cover any surfaces to ensure you don’t spill paint or damage your storage unit, as that could lead to issues with your deposit.
You could also use the additional space to store any items you are selling on websites like eBay, or even to store important equipment you don’t want to go rusty like it might if stored in a garden shed. Common items that fall into this category include gardening equipment, bike parts, and even tools or workbenches.
The possibilities are endless once you can creative with the additional space on offer.
Lastly, using the appropriate packing is absolutely crucial for ensuring everything is packed in the most efficient manner possible, reducing any potential clutter and replacing it with a more organised unit, one that can be accessed quickly and easily, with minimal fuss.
Clear boxes, for example, make it significantly easier to see what is packed where, preventing unnecessary time spent rifling through boxes trying to find what you’re looking for.
For more fragile items, such as plates or glass, packing paper and bubble wrap should also be used to prevent any breakages.
As you can see, with the right storage equipment and ideas, you can truly maximise the space on offer.
At Kangaroo, our Box Shop sell a wide variety of packaging materials, boxes, and accessories that make all of this simple and easy.
Not only will these boxes keep your belongings in perfect condition, but they will also you’re your unit remain organised.
