Organizing a Messy Storage Unit

The longer you have rented a storage unit, the more cluttered it can get. That can become a problem when accessing seasonal items like your cold-weather clothing or Christmas décor. Having and implementing efficient storage unit organization skills can keep the mess under control and make items easy to find. Clifton Rt. 46 Storage is a family-owned company that has provided storage solutions for Clifton, New Jersey residents for over 30 years. Here, we talk about storage unit organization ideas and how to take control of your mess.

Start Prepared

Before beginning your rental unit cleanout, be sure you’re adequately prepared. Supply runs can use up valuable time. To avoid frustration, have the following items handy:

• A vehicle to transport large loads
• Scissors or packing tape
• Heavy-duty trash bags or contractor bags
• Plenty of boxes for sorting
• Packing tape
• Markers
• Gloves and a face mask

Plan your cleanout for an open weekend with no other obligations. That allows you to stay focused on the task ahead of you. Set aside more time than you think you need. If possible, aim for days with fair weather to maximize your comfort and minimize the risk of rain damage. You may also want to invite friends and family. Plenty of help will lighten your workload and make the project more enjoyable.

Move Methodically

Cleanout day has arrived. Once you begin, it helps to move methodically. This approach will help you track your progress. Rather than working at random, focus on one small area at a time. Clean out sections and sort items into four basic categories:

• Keep
• Trash
• Sell
• Donate

You may also designate a fifth pile for second chances. That gives you more time to make decisions about items you are unsure about keeping. If you do create a Second Chance pile, use it sparingly. Too many delayed decisions may seem overwhelming and discourage you from addressing them in the future. Also, set yourself a personal deadline for your final decision.

Getting Rid of Items

After sorting, it’s time to dispose of the items you don’t plan on keeping. Furniture and large appliances may be sold on Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace. For more valuable items, eBay and Etsy are popular options. Be sure to search for similar items before listing to learn the typical selling price.

Garage sales may also help you to sell what remains after online marketplace efforts. However, you should check your facility policy before hosting a sale on-site. For a simpler solution, donate to a charity, consignment, or thrift shop.

Some items you find may carry sentimental value. If getting rid of these is difficult, don’t be upset with yourself. Instead, consider taking a picture to preserve the memory once the item itself is gone. You may also gift the items to loved ones who will appreciate the same sentiment.

Organizing and Storing Items

Your final step in how to organize a storage unit is to organize what remains. Start by packaging items for storage. Keep similar items together for easy access, and label the boxes clearly. While it may be tempting to use whatever boxes are available, consider sticking to a single box size. That will allow for easy stacking and accessibility.

If your storage unit is large enough, shelving units are an excellent way to keep boxes organized for easy access. Identify items you will want to use in the future, and group similar items together to be stored in one box. That may include:

• Winter clothing
• Camping supplies
• Tools
• Office documents
• Holiday decorations

Store boxes containing important, frequently used items on lower shelves in easy-to-reach locations. Items you won’t need can be pushed toward the back. Be sure to maintain a clear pathway so you can retrieve items without digging.

While you work, create a master list of everything contained in your storage unit. That will provide a convenient reference to what you have in storage.

Learn More Storage Unit Organization Tips With Clifton Rt. 46 Storage

Organizing a messy storage unit may seem overwhelming. But with proper preparation and a methodical approach, you can create order out of the chaos. Clifton Rt. 46 Storage is a self-storage facility renting to residents of Clifton, NJ, and the surrounding area. For more storage unit organization advice or to rent a unit, contact us today.