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As you stand in an empty storage unit, staring at those blank walls, it can be hard to imagine how you’ll fit all your stuff inside. Luckily, with the right layout and shelving, you can maximise every inch of space.

Maximising our customers budget is what we do best at Storage Land. That’s why we offer some of the most affordable storage units available in Australia. Drawing on our experience, we’ll share 5 tried-and-true tips to help you efficiently organise your items in a storage unit and make them easy to access.

Given our experience at Storage Land, we recommend the following:

• Think vertically.
• Categorise and group like items together.
• Use clear plastic bins for easy organisation.
• Make space for walkways.
• Optimise your storage unit layout based on items frequently used.

1. Think Vertically: Use Shelving and Racks To Maximise Vertical Space.

Shelving and racking are game changers when it comes to storage unit organisation. They allow you to store items up and off the floor, opening up more space.

Consider the following ideas when it comes to using shelves and racks:

Install Sturdy Shelving Units

Invest in shelving units specifically designed for storage units. These heavy-duty racks are great for handling the weight of boxes and furniture. They allow you to store lighter boxes, bins, and items up off the floor. Group similar items together on the shelves to keep everything organised, and ensure to secure the shelving to the walls of your unit to prevent tipping.

Use Racks for Larger Items

For bigger, heavier items like furniture, tools, and equipment, consider installing storage racks. These racks lift the items and suspend them from the ceiling, allowing you to store items underneath and on the sides. Many racks are adjustable, so you can raise and lower them as needed. Secure the racks to the walls and ceilings to ensure stability.

Double Up With a Loft

A loft system takes storage to new heights by utilising both floor and ceiling space. It consists of a raised platform, allowing you to store items underneath the loft. The area on top of the loft provides even more space for boxes and furniture. Lofts do require assembly and installation, so keep that in mind; still, they are a great option if you want to maximise your vertical storage space.

By adopting these tips, you’ll have room for more items in your unit without having to rent a bigger space. So, look up and start stacking to make the most of your storage unit!

2. Categorise and Group Like Items Together.

Another strategy is grouping similar items. This makes them much easier to find and prevents wasting space. Have a plan for how you want to arrange everything before moving items into the unit.

As you unpack into your storage unit, start sorting items into categories. Group each bin into categories, like “kitchen items,” “books,” “linens,” “tools,” etc. This makes it simple to put things in the right place and find them again later.

Try grouping bins by room or type of item. Keep heavier bins on the bottom shelves and lighter ones up higher. Place labels on each box indicating the contents and which room the items belong in. This also helps keep you organised when moving into a new home.

Adhering to these tips will help you make the most of your storage space. Keeping a well-organised unit makes moving and retrieving items efficient and hassle-free. With some time and effort, you’ll have an optimally arranged storage solution.

3. Use Clear Plastic Bins for Easy Organisation.

A great strategy to keep your unit tidy and make items easy to find is to use clear plastic storage bins. These bins keep everything visible and contained in one spot.

Here are some ideas to help you get the best out of storage bins.

Use Lidded Bins to Keep Out Dust

For long-term storage or smaller items, choose bins with secure lids. This protects your belongings from dust and pests. Lidded bins also stack well on top of each other. Look for bins specifically designed for storage units and garages that can withstand temperature changes.

Maximise Airflow

Don’t overcrowd your storage unit with bins. Leave adequate space between and around the bins for easy access and airflow. Stacking some bins on top of each other is fine, but don’t stack them all the way to the ceiling. Also, never stack heavy bins on top of lighter ones.

Consider Getting Bins on Wheels

If you need to move bins around frequently to access items in the back, look for plastic bins with built-in wheels. These make it easy to roll the bins in and out as needed. For the best mobility, choose bins with four wheels instead of two. Wheeled bins also make transporting items to and from your storage unit more convenient.

Using clear, categorised bins is one of the smartest ways to keep your storage unit organised and make the most of the space you have. With everything visible and accessible, you’ll be able to find whatever you need in seconds.

4. Make Space for Walkways.

When planning how to arrange your items, be sure to leave wide walkways between rows of boxes and furniture. You want to be able to comfortably walk up and down each aisle. Leaving 3 to 4 feet of space is a good rule of thumb.

Also, designate some open floor space as a work area where you can unpack boxes, sort through items, and repack things if needed. Having room to spread out will make organising and reorganising much more efficient. You may want to have folding tables, chairs, and task lighting in your work area.

In summary, leaving enough open space in your storage unit is key to staying organised and being able to find what you need easily. Designating walkways and work areas will ensure your belongings are neatly stowed and within easy reach when you need them.

5. Optimise Your Storage Unit’s Layout Based on Item Frequency of Use.

To make the most of your storage space, organise items according to how often you need to access them. This efficient layout will save you time rummaging through boxes and prevent frustration.

Here are some ideas you can try out depending on the frequency of use.

Most Frequently Used Items

Place the belongings you retrieve most regularly, such as seasonal clothing, recreational gear, or office supplies, near the front of your unit. Install shelving along the walls for easy storage and retrieval. You’ll appreciate the convenience when you need to grab something quickly.

Moderately Used Items

For things you access occasionally but not daily, such as extra linens, books, or decorations, utilise the central floor space. Stack uniform boxes on top of each other or invest in multi-level steel shelving. Make sure to label each box on multiple sides so you know exactly what’s inside without having to move other boxes around.

Rarely Used Items

Relegate possessions you almost never need, such as memorabilia, old files, or furniture, to the back of your storage unit. Place heavy boxes and bulky items on the floor, and use the highest shelves for lighter goods. Since you won’t access these belongings often, take extra care to pack them well and label each box thoroughly in case your memory needs refreshing years down the road!

An efficient layout based on the frequency of use will make your storage unit feel more organised and help ensure your belongings stay in great condition. Be sure to pick a storage unit that meets these needs without hurting your budget. At Storage Land, we offer budget-friendly storage options, and our team is ready to offer suggestions to make the best out of your units; contact us today for more info.

What is the best way to organise a storage unit?

The best way to organise a storage unit is by strategic planning and smart packing. Start by listing your items using clear labels on durable boxes. Pack heavier objects at the base and place often-needed items near the front. Lastly, utilise shelving for easy access and to maximise vertical space, ensuring a tidy and efficient storage setup.

What do you put on the floor of a storage unit?

To safeguard your belongings from moisture, especially with concrete storage unit floors, lay down protective coverings like plastic sheeting, tarps, or wooden pallets. These barriers can prevent damage from condensation during temperature and humidity shifts, keeping your items dry and well-preserved.

Can i put shelves in my storage unit?

Yes, you can add shelves to your storage unit to maximise space and improve accessibility. Opt for shelving that is both portable and robust, ensuring that it can support your items while also allowing for more floor space and manoeuvrability within the unit.

You’ve now got a solid game plan to efficiently organise your storage unit. With smart shelving, an effective layout, and some handy accessories, you’ll maximise every inch of space - your items will be neatly arranged and easy to access when you need them. Although it may take a little upfront effort, the payoff of an organised, clutter-free unit will be so worth it.

Contact the Storage Land team today to inquire about our affordable storage options!