Young woman and man with big cardboard boxes into warehouse

Storage Tips

Top Storage Tips for Maximizing Your Storage Unit

In storage units large and small, organization is essential. Effectively using a storage unit can be tricky, but with a few good words of advice, you can make the most of your space.

Plan Ahead

Take inventory of what you plan to store. It doesn’t need to be a detailed list, just a general overview. This will help determine how much space you need.

Belongings from a house being loaded into a storage unit

Maximize Space

Take advantage of the vertical space by stacking couches on their ends, mattresses and box springs on their long edges, and stacking chairs seat to seat. Use shelves and tupperware to keep your items organized. Fill empty space inside appliances and drawers and disassemble any tables and bed frames.

Store Safely

Store frequently used items at the front for easy access. Leave an aisle so you can retrieve something in the back when you need it. Spread out the weight between boxes so there aren’t anything that are too heavy to lift.

Different parts of the furniture are wrapped in a protective film when disassembled, ready for transportation. A transparent film covers the upholstered parts of furniture for transportation

Protect Your Belongings

Use pallets or plywood to keep your items off the floor. Stack your boxes from heaviest on the bottom to lightest to lightest on top to keep boxes intact. Using paper pads between items will avoid scratching and covering items with moving pads, sheets or light blankets will keep them safe from further damage. Don’t forget to use bubble wrap on any fragile items.

Middle age caucasian woman smiling happy packing carboard box at new home.

Keep Items Pristine

Clean your appliances and leave them slightly open to prevent mildew. Rubbing machine oil on metal will help prevent rusting. Books can be packed flat to protect their spines while clothing and drapery can be stored on hangers in wardrobe boxes.

Drive up outdoor storage units

Think Long Term

Label boxes on all sides to make it easy to find what you’re looking for. Wrap and label disassembled parts with matching coloured tags so it’s easier to put them back together. Protect your gate pass and unit number and use a heavy duty disc padlock. Check in on your unit regularly.

Boy peeking under cloth on car

Vehicle Storage Tips

Storing your vehicle is a great idea, but it’s important to take steps to keep it in tip-top shape and safe.

  • Give your vehicle a good wash and wax to prevent rust on your vehicle. Cover your vehicle with a tarp for even better protection against the elements.
  • Make sure tires are properly inflated and the suspension components are greased.
  • Don’t leave the parking brake on – it could seize up.
  • If you’re storing your vehicle for a long time, you may want to disconnect the battery to prevent it from discharging.
  • Top up all your fluids, including your radiator’s anti-freeze for winter. Top up your gas tank to prevent any corrosion.
  • Lock the doors, close all the windows and remove all valuable items.
  • Use a disc lock on your RV or trailer for maximum protection.
  • Properly secure your boat’s motor with high security locks.

Small, medium or large. We have space for you!

Storage Alberta is a leading self-storage facility specifically designed for Albertans. Contact our team to find the perfect unit for you.