How a Storage Unit Makes for a Stress-Free Move

A Storage Unit Can Simplify Your Move

If you’re moving within the same town or area, a storage unit provides a secure and sometimes climate-controlled environment to act as a go-between while relocating. You can gradually bring boxes to your unit to store until you’re ready to move everything into your new home.

If you’re renting a moving truck, use a storage unit to your advantage:

• Organize all your boxes and items in the order you’d like them placed on the truck. 
• Disassemble furniture and store it in the unit before moving day.
• Get nonessential items out of the way so you have room to do final cleaning or make last-minute repairs and touch-ups.

Sometimes, a move doesn’t align with your work schedule or coincides with an unexpected life event. In these situations, a storage unit provides a secure place to keep your belongings while you stay with friends, family, or at a hotel. It offers peace of mind knowing your items are safe and accessible during a time of transition.

10 Essential Tips to Make Moving Easier

1. Prep and plan early for your move

Set aside time to organize the logistics of your move. Start with these essential tasks:

• Reserve a storage unit or moving truck when you have your moving date.
• Give your landlord written notice if required.
• Call utility companies to end or transfer services.
• Notify the post office of your address change.

2. Stock up on moving supplies

Consider the items you have to pack and purchase moving supplies, such as:

• Boxes
• Tape
• Bubble wrap
• Wrapping paper
• Dollies
• Hand trucks
• Tie-downs

If you’re a tenant at a storage unit facility, they may offer a discount on moving supplies. You’ll probably need more boxes than you think, so stock up on various sizes. You can also score free boxes from local businesses or places like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace.

3. Create a packing strategy

Approach your packing with a strategy. Keep these tips in mind:

If you run out of bubble wrap or wrapping paper, use towels and bedding to cushion fragile items. Fill up empty spaces to avoid breaking items. 

Optimize how you use your boxes: Small and medium boxes should hold heavier items, while large and extra-large boxes should be used for light or awkwardly shaped items. 

Pack your clothes and hangers together using a wardrobe box, garment bag, or large plastic bags.

4. Set a packing schedule 

Even if you plan everything out, it may still feel like there’s not enough time to get it all done. Take it step-by-step to help pace yourself:

• Set up a schedule and assign a room to pack each week.
• Pack items that you won’t need leading up to the move first.
• Use a storage unit to keep items out of the way as you pack and clean.
• Prepare everything to be ready to go when the moving truck arrives.

5. Donate to minimize clutter

Over time, you’ve likely accumulated more things than you realize. As you prepare for your move, start by decluttering your home: 

• Do an initial sweep of your belongings and identify the things you’re ready to let go of.
• Be honest about what you truly need in your new place.
• Sort through every room, closet, and drawer.
• Donate items you’ve decided to part with to a local second-hand store.
• Use a storage unit to organize and minimize the items in a space away from your home.

6. Gather important documents and devices

When packing, keep all important documents and devices in a box that’s easily accessible, including: 

• Forms of identification
• Certificates
• Social security cards
• Important documentation
• Work, real estate, rental agency, and school documents
• Chargers
• Laptops
• Tablets
• Consoles
• Remotes

7. List, label, and color-coordinate your boxes

Use your supplies to organize the move with as much detail as possible: 

• Create an entire inventory of your home with checklists, color-coded labels, and detailed descriptions. 
• Write a list outside the box of what’s inside and where it needs to go. 
• Arrange your storage unit accordingly. Put the boxes or items you need first in the back and those you need last in front. 

When the moving truck gets to the unit, loading up will be a breeze.

8. Protect fragile belongings

Even if you’re moving across town, protecting fragile items is important. Here’s how to pack them properly:

• Wrap plates, mirrors, and glass picture frames with bubble wrap and pack them vertically. 
• Wrap glasses, bowls, and mugs in layers of paper. 
• Use blankets and pads for furniture.
• Protect mattresses with plastic covers. 

Consider renting a storage unit if you need a safe place to keep fragile belongings between residences. These facilities offer protection from thieves, the elements, and pests.

9. Strategically organize your storage unit

Once you’ve packed all the boxes, bring your strategic thinking to the storage unit or moving truck:

• Consider what you want to be first on and off the truck. 
• Give yourself a starting point and work backward in order of priority from there. 
• Use empty dresser drawers as small boxes to hold random things you’ll find on move-out day. 
• Stack boxes from heaviest to lightest. 
• Pack items in the negative space between table legs, chair legs, and bookcases.

10. Prepare for moving day

Moving day is here! Moving requires your full attention, so make sure to clear your schedule and set aside time to:

• Load up your belongings
• Clean the house
• Store or unpack the truck

It’s always worth asking for help from friends or family to lighten the load. Consider bringing snacks and water, or treat everyone to pizza for an easy dinner.

Secure a Storage Unit to Streamline Your Move

Don’t wait until the last minute to secure a storage unit for your move. Research local facilities to find a unit that meets your size, safety, and climate-control needs. With an additional space to store and organize your belongings, you’ll enjoy a smooth, stress-free transition to your new home.