“There are almost 1,600 self-storage sites across the UK comprising of approximately 45.6 million square feet of self-storage space” – The Self Storage Association UK.
If you live in the UK, it is likely that you would be renting a storage space at some time in life. If you are already running out of space, then the smart thing to do is use the space you are renting in an organized manner.
Self-storage container prices vary depending on the container’s size, so you must make the most of the space that you rent.
So the question arises, how one can make the most of a fixed container space as your belongings will not shrink. Before moving to that answer, it is important to understand why you need to be organized.
Let’s say you rent a ten-by-ten self-storage unit, your belongings take only half the container space, and the rest is left empty. You could save half the cost by renting a smaller unit. That’s how self-storage container prices work.
Similarly, instead of renting two storage units, you can fit all the stuff in one and again save some money if you stack your stuff properly.
Saving the cost is not the only goal when packing a storage unit. You also want to make sure that the belongings stay safe and are not damaged. So, cramping up the stuff isn’t a good idea.
Now let’s have a look at ways you can pack a self-storage unit cost-effectively.
Pack your Belongings Properly
Photo by Karolina Grabowska from PexelsPacking your belongings neatly and properly is the first step towards keeping them organized in the storage unit. Don’t simply load everything in a van and unload it in the storage unit. All your stuff will end up being damaged.
Pack everything that can be packed in boxes, wrap everything else. Before you start this process, make sure you have all the packing material such as cardboard boxes, bubble wrap, tape, labels, markers, dust sheets, etc.
Some storage facilities have storage material, so you don’t even need to go through the hassle of finding and sourcing everything. For Example, Brighton Storage Units by STORED have packing material in stock that can be delivered to you on request.
Get yourself proper boxes that are in good condition, so they are not left open. This way, your belongings will stay safe. Also, make sure that the boxes are of similar sizes so that they can easily be stacked upon one another.
If you can stack boxes easily, you’d most probably make the most of space both in height and floor space. Remember, you are fighting self-storage container prices when stacking up.
Another important thing to do is label boxes: label what box contains what, maybe do numbering on boxes and mention if it contains fragile items. This will be a great help so when you need anything in the future. You’d know where to look.
Some storage facilities, like Brighton storage units by STORED, also offer door-to-door services, which means if you need anything from the unit, you just need to call the facility, and they will deliver it to your doorstep. Labeling will come in handy in this situation.
Maintain an Inventory
Photo by Karolina Grabowska from PexelsAlthough many Brighton storage units offer an online inventory, it is always a good idea to keep a hard copy of the inventory with you. Better yet, keep a laminated copy in the storage unit, paste it on one wall, maybe.
This way, whenever you visit the self-storage unit, it will help you find your stuff easily, and this will also help make any insurance claims in case of a mishap or damage.
Make the Most of Amenities
Storage facilities offer amenities such as trolleys and an unloading bay. Use these to transfer your stuff easily and efficiently instead of doing unnecessary heavy lifting.
Some facilities like Brighton storage units by STORED also offer door-to-door service included in the self-storage container prices, so make sure you save the cost of transporting the goods.
Place the Heaviest Item First
Photo by Ketut Subiyanto from PexelsTo make the most of the space in your storage unit:
- Place the heaviest boxes first.
- Use these as a foundation to stack other items and boxes on them.
- Just separate anything that you may need frequently.
Keep Frequently Needed Items Close
If there are certain things that you may need frequently, for example, if you are making use of student storage UK, then keeping your mattress and course books of past semesters in easy access is recommended.
Even though many Brighton storage units offer competitive self-storage container prices for student storage, you need to make sure you are using the space most effectively and easily find everything.
Get some Organisers
What better way to keep your belongings organized than getting some organizers? Some shelves and racks will help you store the items that can’t necessarily be packed in a box.
These are also great if you share a student storage with your friends, you can divide the spaces using shelves and racks. Many Brighton storage unit providers partner with universities to offer low self-storage container prices to students.
Keep Space for Accessibility
We know that everyone wants to make the most of the storage space as the self-storage container prices are not always the lowest, but make sure you don’t stack everything in such a way that you can’t access anything when needed.
Keep a narrow space to maneuver between lanes of boxes. This is important for facilities that offer door-to-door services like STORED so that the team can easily access boxes without damaging other stuff.
Dust Sheets to Cover Everything
Last but not least, make use of dust sheets to cover all the stuff. Keeping everything neat and dust-free is the way to go!
Featured Photo by Adam Winger on Unsplash
