It’s expensive to live in Pasadena. Whether you rent or buy, prices are high. With that being said sometimes downsizing to a smaller home is necessary. But what should you do with the home items that won’t fit in your new home but you just aren’t willing to part with? That’s easy, rent a self storage unit. However, self storage units only have so much room and you don’t want to waste money on a oversized unit with too much spare space so it’s key to find ways to utilize every inch of space while keeping your items stored properly. At Arroyo Parkway Self Storage, we want to help you maximize your self storage space and get everything out of your hard earned money.
Our job is to help you save money. Don’t rent a unit larger than you need. Here’s how to pack as much of your items into your unit as possible while taking into consideration the quality of your items.
Be Picky When Choosing a Self Storage Facility
When it comes to your possessions you want to ensure the storage facility you choose is equipped with modern security measures. 24-hour video surveillance, clean grounds, and impeccable customer service are all very important. Not only do these features help keep your items damage-free, they also mean the facility cares about your items and your experience with them.
Choose the Right Sized Unit
You don’t want to get a unit that is too large because you’ll end up with unused space. If you get a unit that’s too small then all of your items will be cramped and you’ll have a much harder time accessing your things. Talk with the on-site manager about the items you plan on storing and they should be able to help you pick out the right size unit for you.
Map Out Your Arrangement on Paper First
Things will go much smoother on moving day if you know exactly where everything you're putting in storage is going to go. Put pen to paper and map out where each item and box is going to go. You’ll want the heavier items towards the back of the unit so you don’t have to worry about moving those items to get to other things. Tall items should go against the walls, while boxes should be stacked neatly together. Bulkier boxes or containers should be on the bottom with lighter items on top of them. Items you know you’ll need access to first should always be in the front of the unit, this includes extra towels or sheets, upcoming seasonal items, etc.
Pack Your Belongings Securely and Neatly
In order to get most out of the space of your unit you’re going to have to start with how you pack your belongings. Whether you’re using boxes, crates, or large bins you’re going to want to pack as much in them-while not compromising the quality of your items-as you can. You also don’t want to just throw things in boxes that have no common factor. Keep things you’re going to want to access soon in the same box, or pack by room, item type, or season.
Label, Label, Label
Don’t underestimate the power of the label. If you happen to have multiple boxes of kitchenware then you should list the type of kitchenware in each box, like baking, pots and pans, etc. Larger items like refrigerators, coolers, and shelving are great places to store smaller items, just make sure to label what is stored in these as well. Labeling will make searching for things 10x easier.
Disassemble and Stack
If you’re storing tables with legs that come off then you should definitely remove the legs. The same goes for any other items that you break down. By disassembling these items you make more space available in the unit, just remember to label what goes with what. If you are able to create secure stacks in your unit as well you’ll definitely be getting the most out of your unit. If you can, stack items that belong in the same room with each other or items that are similar like holiday decorations.
Use Pallets
Accidents happen. But even though it’s rare for accidents like flooding or spillage to happen it’s better to be safe than sorry. Having your items stacked on pallets is an easy way to prevent damage in the worst-case scenario.
We Care About Pasadena and We Care About You
No matter the size of your unit, make sure to plan ahead, organize, and label your each box. Having an organized unit is the best way to use your unit efficiently and will help you when you visit your unit to get some things. If you want to get the most out of your unit then take these steps to keep your unit is arranged accordingly.
At Arroyo Parkway Self Storage, we understand that living in Pasadena, CA is expensive. We are part of the community and love our community. Let us help with you self storage needs. Let us help you get the most out of your self storage budget and unit. At Arroyo Parkway Self Storage, we care about you and we care about Pasadena.
About the Author: Lark Begin is the president of Profit Parrot Marketing; an SEO marketing, content and social media company in the Ottawa area. Lark is well established in the realm of digital marketing and is dedicated to helping multiple professional local and international websites and brands grow an online presence and succeed.
