Self Storage Tips & Safe Storage Recommendations
Self Storage Tips for an Easier Move
A little planning can make packing, moving and using your storage unit much easier. Use these practical tips to organize your belongings, make better use of your space and keep future visits more convenient.
Start With a Simple Plan
Make an Inventory
Create a quick list of what you plan to store. This can help you estimate the amount of space you need and keep track of belongings after move-in.
Measure Large Items
Measure furniture, equipment and oversized belongings before choosing a unit. Remember to consider doorway clearance as well as floor space.
Use Consistent Boxes
Similar-size boxes are easier to stack and can help you use vertical space more efficiently throughout the storage unit.
Label More Than One Side
Label boxes on multiple sides so you can identify the contents without moving an entire stack.
Make the Space Easier to Use
Stack Carefully
Place heavier, sturdy boxes on the bottom and lighter items above them. Avoid unstable stacks that may shift when you move items around.
Leave an Aisle
If you expect to visit frequently, leave a narrow path through the unit so you can reach belongings toward the back without unloading everything.
Keep Frequent Items Visible
Place belongings you expect to retrieve regularly near the front of the unit or in clearly marked, easy-to-reach locations.
Distribute Heavy Items
Spread heavier boxes and equipment throughout the unit rather than concentrating too much weight in one stack or one section.
Remember: North Phoenix Units Are Not Climate Controlled
Our units are outdoor, drive-up and non-climate-controlled. Consider whether your belongings are appropriate for seasonal temperature changes before placing them in storage.
Prepare Belongings Before Storage
Furniture
Clean and dry furniture before storage. Disassemble larger pieces when practical and keep screws, bolts and other hardware together in labeled bags.
Electronics
Review manufacturer storage recommendations before placing televisions, computers or other electronics in a non-climate-controlled environment.
Books & Documents
Pack books flat in sturdy boxes and avoid overloading containers. Sensitive documents may require a different storage environment.
Kitchen Items
Wash and completely dry dishes, cookware and small appliances before packing them to help reduce odors and trapped moisture.
A Few Extra Storage Habits Help
Use Sturdy Containers
Choose boxes or containers that can support stacking and protect the contents from being crushed by heavier items.
Keep Important Records Separate
Keep important paperwork, identification and documents you may need quickly somewhere easy to locate and retrieve.
Secure Your Unit
Follow facility requirements for your storage-unit lock and make sure the door is completely secured before leaving the property.
Plan Future Visits
Keep seasonal or frequently needed belongings accessible and plan visits around the facility's unit-access hours.
A Few Final Checks
- Confirm your unit number and gate-access instructions.
- Review your rental agreement for prohibited or restricted items.
- Make sure belongings are clean and dry before storage.
- Keep important or frequently used items near the front.
- Remember that North Phoenix units are not climate controlled.
Still Unsure About Size?
Use our storage calculator or call with a list of what you plan to store. We can help you compare your needs with currently available units.
Storage CalculatorFind Your North Phoenix Storage Unit
Compare current drive-up storage availability and pricing or call our team for help choosing the right size.