Looking for extra space? Whether you’re clearing out a closet, moving a couch, or just need a place for seasonal stuff, buying storage can feel overwhelming. The good news is you don’t need a master plan or a big budget to make it work. In the next few minutes, I’ll walk you through the easiest way to pick the right unit, pack smart, and keep your belongings safe.
Start by pulling everything you want to store into one spot. Sort it into three piles: keep, donate, and toss. The items you keep are the ones you’ll actually pay to store, so trim the pile as much as possible. A tidy list helps you see the real volume you’re dealing with.
Next, measure the biggest pieces – think sofas, wardrobes, or a boxed mattress. Write down the length, width, and height of each. Add a few inches between items for air flow and to avoid crushing fragile things. Once you have the total cubic feet, compare it to the sizes that storage companies offer.
Most facilities have units measured in feet. A 5x10 unit is a popular choice for a sofa, a few boxes, and a bike. If you’re storing a whole bedroom set, a 10x10 or larger might be needed. Use the dimensions you measured earlier and picture the layout: can you place the sofa against a wall and stack boxes on top? Sketching a quick floor plan on paper helps avoid surprises.
Don’t forget the door height. A low ceiling can force you to stack items vertically, which isn’t ideal for heavier things. If the unit has a ramp or a lift, you can stack higher, but always keep weight limits in mind.
Now think about shelving. Portable metal or plastic shelves turn an empty floor into three or four levels of storage. They’re cheap, easy to assemble, and keep boxes off the ground, protecting them from damp.
Use uniform-sized boxes when possible. Same-size boxes stack neatly and fill gaps. Line fragile items with bubble wrap or towels, then fill any empty space with packing paper – no more wasted room.
Place heavier boxes at the bottom and lighter ones on top. This keeps the unit balanced and makes it easier to retrieve things later. For long items like curtains or blankets, roll them instead of folding – a roll takes up far less space.
Label each box with a short description and a number. Create a simple inventory list on your phone. When you need something, you’ll know exactly which box to grab, saving time and hassle.
Cover furniture with moving blankets or plastic sheet covers. This shields against dust, scratches, and moisture. If you store electronics, wrap them in anti-static bags.
Leave a clear aisle down the middle of the unit, about a foot wide. That way you can walk through and reach items without having to move everything around each time.
Finally, check the unit’s climate control options. If you’re storing wood furniture or fabrics, a climate‑controlled unit prevents warping or mold. It costs a bit more, but it’s worth it for valuable pieces.
Buying storage doesn’t have to be a mystery. Measure, prune, plan, and pack smart, and you’ll get the most out of any unit size. Follow these steps and you’ll enjoy a neat, organized space without paying for extra square footage you never use.
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