Pro Tips for Organizing and Packing Your Storage Unit

How to Pack Your Storage Unit

Renting a storage unit is often a necessity when moving, whether for short-term convenience or long-term safekeeping. However, without a strategic approach, your unit can quickly become cluttered, making it difficult to access your belongings. Proper packing and organization not only saves space but also protects your items from damage. Not to mention, most movers charge by the hour to load your belongings into the truck. An organized storage unit can actually save you money! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best practices for preparing, packing, and organizing your storage unit efficiently.

Declutter Before You Pack

Before packing, decluttering is essential to minimize storage costs and maximize space. Sort your belongings into three categories: keep, donate/sell, and discard. If you haven’t used an item in over a year, consider letting it go to avoid storing unnecessary items. Platforms like OfferUp and Facebook Marketplace are great ways to sell items quickly! There are even community-based groups on Facebook called “Buy Nothing” groups where you can post items you’re giving away for free. Check out the local Chicago Buy Nothing Group on Facebook.

Pack Your Belongings Well

Use the Right Packing Materials

Your choice of packing materials directly impacts the longevity of your stored items. While cardboard boxes are common, clear plastic bins offer better protection from moisture and pests while allowing you to see the contents. For added protection:

• Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or packing paper.
• Use furniture covers or moving blankets to protect upholstered items.
• Seal electronics and cables in plastic baggies to prevent dust accumulation.

Label and Inventory Everything

Clearly labeling each box with its contents and using a color-coded system by category or room makes it easier to locate items later. If you’re tech-savy you can create a QR code system with your smartphone and a label printer. Here’s a great how-to video for making your own DIY QR Code Labels for your boxes

Disassemble Large Furniture

Disassembling beds, tables, and desks before storing helps free up space. Keep screws and small parts in labeled baggies, taping them to the corresponding furniture for easy reassembly, alternatively you can have a designated box labeled for furniture assembly parts.

Storage Unit Organization Ideas

Store Items So They Can Be Loaded Efficiently

When placing items in your storage unit, follow these organization principles:

• Heavy items on the bottom, lighter ones on top to prevent crushing.
• Frequently used items at the front for easy access.
• Leave a center aisle to allow movement within the unit.
• Store large furniture along the walls to maximize vertical space.

Utilize Vertical Space

Maximize your storage unit by stacking bins and boxes to the ceiling, ensuring stability by placing the heaviest containers at the bottom. Consider adding shelving units to keep small items organized and accessible. Avoid penalties or fines and always check the rules of your storage unit. Some facilities do not permit the installation of shelves, or have specific rules!

Special Storage Considerations

Storing Electronics

Electronics are highly sensitive to moisture and temperature changes. Follow these tips to keep them safe:

• Remove all batteries to prevent corrosion.
• Store electronics in their original packaging or wrap them in bubble wrap inside sturdy boxes.
• Use climate-controlled storage to avoid temperature fluctuations that could damage circuits.

Storing Clothing and Textiles

For long-term storage of clothing, bedding, and textiles:

• Use vacuum-sealed bags to save space and protect against dust.
• Avoid plastic bags for delicate fabrics like leather or fur, as they need to breathe.
• Store upright in wardrobe boxes to prevent wrinkles and maintain shape.

Storing Furniture

To maintain furniture quality:

• Clean and dry thoroughly before storage to prevent mold.
• Wrap furniture in moving blankets rather than plastic to allow airflow.
• Disassemble large pieces to save space and make moving easier.

Security and Storage Insurance

Choose a Secure Storage Facility

Security is key when storing valuable items. Look for facilities that offer:

• 24/7 surveillance cameras
• Secure access control
• Individual unit locks

Consider Storage Insurance

Even with a secure storage facility, accidents can happen. Check your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policy to see if stored items are covered, and if not, consider purchasing storage insurance for added peace of mind.

Maintaining Your Storage Unit

Keep It Clean and Accessible

• Sweep out dust regularly to keep items in good condition.
• Rotate seasonal items so frequently used belongings stay accessible.
• Check stored items periodically to prevent damage from unnoticed leaks or pests.

Key Takeaways

✅ Declutter before packing to maximize storage efficiency.

✅ Use plastic bins instead of cardboard for better durability.

✅ Label, inventory, and categorize all items for easy retrieval.

✅ Stack and arrange items strategically to maximize space and accessibility.

✅ Invest in climate-controlled storage for electronics, textiles, and furniture.

✅ Choose a secure storage facility and consider insurance for added protection.

Find Reliable Storage Services in Chicago, IL

Midway Moving & Storage offers secure, convenient, and affordable storage solutions tailored to your needs. Whether you require full-service storage—where we pick up, pack, and return your belongings—or mobile and commercial storage options, we ensure your items are protected and easily accessible.

Why Choose Midway Moving & Storage?

• Climate-controlled storage units to protect sensitive items.
• Secure, monitored facilities with 24/7 surveillance.
• Flexible storage options for short- and long-term needs.
• Professional packing and moving assistance to simplify your experience.

For a customized storage quote, call (800) 659-0874!