Small Storage Unit? 5 Ways To Maximize Vertical Space Usage
When you only have a small self-storage unit to work with, maximizing is the name of the game. How can you ensure that you make the most out of your space? One of the most important ways is to use vertical space that often goes wasted. Here are a few ways to do that.
1. Use Shelves. It may seem counterintuitive to make more room by bringing in another object. But shelving facilitates using vertical space to begin with. It also gets smaller, odd objects off the floor. Many people simply use book and storage shelves from home or the office, but you can also purchase new or used ones to help tailor to what you plan to store.
2. Hang Items. Depending on the structure of the unit, you may be able to hang some items from the ceiling. S-hooks and bungee cords, for instance, are often fitted to walls and ceilings to hold things like clothing or sports equipment. Securing items from the ceiling also helps you stack furniture or tall equipment in a vertical position.
3. Reduce Box Types. Many people gather up a bunch of free and used boxes to pack up their things. However, nonuniform boxes make packing and stacking less efficient. You can't stack as tall as you can with uniform box shapes and sizes. Limit box choice to about three different varieties. Always start with the largest on the ground, gradually working your way toward the smallest type at the top.
4. Use Plastic Bins. For many, the challenge in stacking things taller is simply safety and the security of the stack. So if you increase the stability of each container, you can go higher. Plastic bins are better at this than cardboard even though they are more of a financial investment. As an added bonus, you can stack higher with confidence if you choose clear bins so you can see what's inside.
5. Make a Plan. Good planning will go a long way toward using available space to its fullest capacity. Rather than dive headlong into packing the unit, analyze what you have. Get everything together, if possible, so you can eye it up in person. Organize things as they go in, taking a little more time to ensure smart stacking methods.
Where to Start
Ready to begin planning out your small self-storage unit? Tour facilities in your area to learn more about sizes, shapes, and interior components. No matter what you need to store, smart packing will keep your things safe without breaking the bank. Visit today.
