Self storage tips for move-in day

14/11/2025

If this is your first time using self storage, we have all the self storage tips you’ll need right here! Whether you’re moving house or decluttering your space, a self storage unit is your best solution. But you need to make sure that you’re using your storage unit effectively to get the best out of it.

Here, we’ll walk you through our extra useful self storage tips so that you’re able to take advantage of the space.

Self storage tips

Here’s our advice – from the experts – on how to use your self storage unit for the best possible storage solution!

1. Plan before you pack

As with most things in life, you’re always better off with a solid plan. Before you rent the unit, make sure you have an inventory of what you would like to store so that you know exactly how much space you’ll need.

Measure major items: This is especially important for bigger furniture items.
Estimate crate count: Knowing how many crates/boxes you roughly have will also help in determining the amount of space you’ll need.
Draw a layout: Do you like to draw? Great! You could also sketch out where you think the bigger items should go in the storage unit.

2. Strategic packing is key

Our second self storage tip is to make sure that you pack your crates and furniture in a way that allows you to use up the space more efficiently. This will determine how easy it will be to find things later on, too.

Choose uniform crates: Make sure that you use crates that are all the same size because this will help you maximise your vertical space as much as possible, because you’ll be able to easily stack the crates on top of each other.
Fill them up: Fill your crates up to the brim. You can use clothing or blankets to fill any void spaces.
Label: Labelling your crates is the best way of being able to search for and find what you’re looking for in the future. Try to label the top, as well as at least one side of the crate, too.
Create a master list: Create a spreadsheet or a list that documents all of the contents in each numbered crate.

Crates are the best way to store your belongings in a self storage unit because they are a lot more durable compared to cardboard boxes. Plastic crates are also reusable and can easily be stacked on top of one another, ensuring all the contents within each crate are protected by the hard exterior of the crate.

At Extra Space Self Storage, we have crates for hire to ensure your self storage journey is smooth and extra convenient.

3. Maximise vertical space

Our next self storage tip is to make sure that you use vertical space in your self storage unit as much as possible! Stacking is the best way to do this, which is also why we suggest using crates that are all the same size.

Stack heaviest on the bottom: Always place the heaviest crates at the bottom of the stack to create a solid foundation. Make sure fragile items are at the top of the stack.
Disassemble furniture: Where possible, take apart bed frames, tables and desks, wrapping the pieces and securing all the screws and bolts together in a labelled plastic bag. Keep this bag attached to the crate it belongs to.
Utilise drawer space: Fill your dressers and cabinets with soft, non-fragile items to utilise more space.

4. Build an access aisle

Next, make sure that you create an aisle in your storage unit if you think that you’ll need to access it in the future. This is one of the most important self storage tips, because you’ll need to be able to easily access your belongings in future.

Centre aisle: As mentioned above, having a central aisle in your storage unit will allow you to access your belongings easily. Create a path from the door to the back wall.
Place essential items last: Place all items that you’ll need to have access to in the near future closest to the entrance of your self storage unit.

5. Protect your valuables and belongings

Another important self storage tip is to make sure that valuable items are kept safe from dust or other elements.

Wrap furniture: If you have any wooden furniture, it is best to cover it with plastic wraps or moving blankets to ensure that it is protected from scratches and dust. Do not wrap any leather or wooden furniture tightly in plain plastic because this will trap moisture.
Store appliances clean: Make sure that you clean and dry any appliances that you want to store and leave the doors slightly open to avoid moisture build-up and odours.

Your self storage journey doesn’t have to be a stressful one. We have more than 40 years of experience in the bag and have all the amenities you need for a successful self storage journey.

Be sure to get in touch with our team of friendly experts with unbeatable experience today!