Before you do anything with your storage container, it’s important that you start with a plan. You don’t want to just begin filling your container without considering the layout you want to follow and the general placement of your items. If you create a map of the general layout you intend to follow, you’ll be able to plan things out without the trouble of physically moving your boxes and items around. Plus, after all is said and done, you’ll have your own little diagram to refer back to in case you forget where you placed something!
- Pack Your Boxes Carefully
As you consider the best way to fill your storage container, you should also consider the best way to pack your boxes. Any boxes you place inside your storage unit should be packed neatly and securely so the contents are properly protected. Your fragile items should be safely wrapped in packing materials such as bubble wrap or packing paper, or alternatively, you can use soft fabrics like blankets or towels. Additionally, your boxes should be packed in a way that limits movement. The best way to do this is to place items methodically so your boxes are full (without being overly heavy).
- Disassemble Your Furniture
Just as you prepare your boxes for storage, your furniture needs to be prepared too. For furniture, the best approach is to disassemble each piece as much as possible. Disassembled furniture is much easier to arrange within your storage unit, as it doesn’t require accommodating large amounts of space or awkward shapes. Plus, disassembled furniture is a lot less likely to get damaged in transport. However, be mindful about labeling the pieces and keeping them together so nothing gets lost or confused.
- Disassemble Your Furniture
Just as you prepare your boxes for storage, your furniture needs to be prepared too. For furniture, the best approach is to disassemble each piece as much as possible. Disassembled furniture is much easier to arrange within your storage unit, as it doesn’t require accommodating large amounts of space or awkward shapes. Plus, disassembled furniture is a lot less likely to get damaged in transport. However, be mindful about labeling the pieces and keeping them together so nothing gets lost or confused.
When filling your storage container, make sure to create a clear path in order to efficiently load items in and out of the unit. This pathway should be created with a wide enough amount of space so you don’t struggle as you place items inside. These walkways are crucial to accessing the back of your container without moving things around, making much more efficient use of your container.
- Be Mindful of Weight Distribution
No matter the use of your storage container, you should always be mindful of weight distribution. As you stack your belongings, having an uneven amount of weight in any area can be detrimental to the safety and integrity of both yourself and your belongings. You should always place the heaviest items at the bottom of any stacks and work your way up to the lightest items to prevent any toppling over or any items getting crushed. Vertical weight distribution isn’t the only thing to consider either, as the weight of your items should also be distributed as evenly as possible horizontally.
If you’re using your storage container for long-term purposes, shelving can be a wonderful option as opposed to stacking your belongings. Using wall shelving or shelf units can be an effective way to organize your items and allow for easy access to whatever you need during the duration of your storage container usage. This is a strategy frequently used for commercial purposes, as inventory can be arranged much more conveniently when utilizing these organizational tools.
Regardless of whether you live in a humid climate or not, it’s crucial to implement preventative measures for mold and mildew, especially if you’re using a storage unit long-term. Placing moisture absorbers within your unit is a great way to keep any mold and mildew at bay. Silica gel is a material commonly used for this purpose as well, so be sure to utilize one of these absorbent options to keep your items safe. If the option is available, you can also opt to invest in a climate-controlled unit.
