How do I maximise space in a storage unit?

Maximising Space in a Storage Unit

Maximising the usable space within a storage unit begins long before items are loaded. Efficient packing and a strategic approach to stacking can significantly increase capacity and improve accessibility.

Pre-Packing Preparation

• Declutter Thoroughly: The most effective way to save space is by not storing items that are no longer needed. Sort through possessions and decide what can be sold, donated, or disposed of before packing.
• Choose the Right Unit Size: An accurately sized unit prevents paying for unused space or struggling to fit everything into a unit that is too small. Consider the volume of goods, including any awkward or bulky items. Guidance on what size storage unit is needed for a 3-bedroom house can be helpful here.
• Standardise Packing Boxes: Using boxes of uniform size, particularly for smaller items, allows for stable and efficient stacking. Strong, double-walled boxes are recommended to prevent crushing.
• Disassemble Furniture: Beds, tables, shelves, and other flat-pack items should be taken apart. Bag and label all screws and fixings, taping them securely to the corresponding furniture piece.
• Clean and Dry Appliances: Before storing white goods such as washing machines or fridges, ensure they are thoroughly cleaned and completely dry to prevent mould or unpleasant odours. For washing machines, fitting transit bolts is essential for internal component protection.

Smart Packing Techniques

• Utilise Internal Spaces: Fill drawers of dressers, cabinets, and the interiors of appliances with smaller, non-fragile items such as linens, towels, or books. This prevents wasted space and provides additional padding.
• Pack Boxes Strategically: Place heavier items in smaller boxes to make them easier to lift and prevent the box bottoms from giving out. Lighter, bulkier items can go into larger boxes. Distribute weight evenly in each box.
• Label Everything Clearly: Mark each box on multiple sides with its contents and the room it belongs to. This saves considerable time and effort when retrieving specific items. Numbering boxes and keeping a master inventory list can also be beneficial.
• Protect Items for Long-Term Storage: For items remaining in storage for an extended period, employ appropriate packing materials. This includes using acid-free tissue paper for delicate items, wrapping furniture in moving blankets or plastic sheeting, and ensuring electronics are properly padded. Refer to specific advice on how to pack items for long-term storage for comprehensive guidance.

Loading the Storage Unit

• Plan the Layout: Before loading, visualise the unit as a puzzle. Sketching a simple diagram can help determine where large items will go and how an access path might be maintained.
• Create a Stable Base: Begin by placing the heaviest and largest items (e.g., appliances, dismantled furniture components) at the back and sides of the unit, directly on the floor. This provides a strong foundation and prevents top-heavy instability.
• Stack Vertically: Work upwards, placing stronger, heavier boxes at the bottom and lighter boxes on top. Utilise the full height of the unit where possible. Create columns of uniformly sized boxes for maximum stability.
• Maintain an Access Path: If there is a need to access items periodically, create a narrow aisle down the centre or along one wall. Place items likely to be needed first nearest the door.
• Store Delicate Items Carefully: Mirrors, framed artwork, and other fragile flat items should be wrapped securely and stood on their edges, not laid flat. Cushion them with other items or cardboard.
• Maximise Airspace: Avoid leaving large pockets of unused space at the top of the unit. Lighter items such as sofa cushions, mattresses, or lighter boxes can be placed on top of stacked furniture or boxes to fill these gaps.
• Leave Gaps for Air Circulation: While maximising space, it is advisable to leave a small gap between the stored items and the unit walls, particularly if the unit is not climate-controlled, to aid air circulation and mitigate humidity build-up.