How to Pack a Storage Unit (The Right Way)

Introduction

Packing a storage unit can feel overwhelming – storage spaces tend to fill up faster than expected, and a disorganised unit quickly becomes a cluttered mess. Without a smart plan, you risk damaged belongings (and wasted money on ruined items) due to poor packing practices. The good news is that a little strategy goes a long way. In this guide, we’ll show you how to maximize space, protect your items, and keep everything accessible. These tips apply whether you’re storing things for a few weeks or for years. Let’s lower the stress and pack your storage unit the right way.

Start With a Clear Plan

Why it matters: Jumping into packing without a plan leads to chaos. Remember, self-storage is about retrieval, not just storage – you want to find items later without digging through chaos. Taking time to plan now will save you hours (and headaches) down the road:

• Decide storage duration: Are you storing short-term (a few months) or long-term? For short-term storage, you might prioritize easy access to many items. For long-term, you’ll pack more tightly and focus on preservation (using protective covers, climate control, etc.). Knowing the timeline helps you decide how accessible things need to be.

• List priority items: Make an inventory of everything you plan to store, and mark items you’ll likely need to retrieve sooner than later. Keep those essentials accessible instead of burying them. For example, documents, seasonal clothing, or tools you might use should go toward the front or top of stack.

• Measure large items: Before moving day, measure bulky furniture and appliances. Ensure they’ll fit through unit doors and note their dimensions for layout planning. This helps you map out where big items (couches, mattresses, etc.) will sit in the unit.

Taking a few minutes to sketch a quick layout or “floor plan” of your unit can be extremely helpful. Mark where large, less-used items will go (likely in back) and where frequently accessed items will go (near the front). A clear plan means you won’t accidentally trap something you’ll need later.

Choose the Right Storage Unit Size

Choosing an appropriately sized unit before you pack is key to avoiding over-stuffing. You don’t want to pay for a unit twice as big as you need, but renting one that’s too small can lead to cramped, risky stacking.

• When in doubt, go one size up: Cramming too much into a tiny unit can damage items or force you to rent an extra space later. Renting a slightly larger unit often saves money and hassle in the long run. In fact, upgrading from, say, a 10×10 to a 10×15 might only cost a little more each month but gives you flexibility for future items. Extra room means you can leave aisles and prevent over-stacking, which protects your belongings.

• Use vertical space: Remember that storage units have height (typically around 8 feet, sometimes up to 10 feet tall)extraspace.com. This vertical space is often underused – stack upwards to make the most of it. Plan to stack sturdy boxes to the ceiling safely, and consider bringing freestanding shelves (more on that later) to help use the full height. Maximizing cubic feet can mean renting a smaller floor size.

• Factor in climate control: Decide if you need a climate-controlled unit or a standard unit. Climate-controlled units regulate temperature and humidity, which is important if you’re storing delicate items like electronics, wood furniture, photographs, or artwork. For many, climate control matters more than a bit of extra space – it protects sensitive belongings from heat, cold, and moisture. If your items aren’t sensitive and you live in a mild climate, a standard unit can suffice. (Internal link: See our guide on climate-controlled vs. standard storage for more details.)

• Use a size guide: Not sure what size you need? Use our storage unit size guide (internal link) or ask the facility for a size recommendation. Describe what you’re storing – they can suggest the best unit. Planning size correctly prevents overpaying for empty space or overstuffing a unit until it’s unsafe.

Use the Right Packing Materials

Using proper packing materials will protect your items and make stacking much easier. Don’t skimp on boxes and supplies – they are literally supporting your belongings for months or years.

• Choose sturdy, uniform boxes: Use heavy-duty moving boxes or high-quality cartons that won’t crush easily. Cheap or old grocery-store boxes can collapse when stacked, especially under weight or over time. It’s best to invest in boxes of similar size and strength. Uniform sizes stack neatly without leaving gaps, so you build stable walls of boxes in the unit. This also improves safety – boxes won’t topple if they fit well together.

• Consider plastic bins for long-term storage: Clear plastic storage totes are fantastic for long-term or damp environments. They’re waterproof, durable, and you can see what’s inside at a glance. While cardboard is fine for short-term, plastic bins keep out moisture and pests much better. They also stack evenly (many have lockable lids), adding stability. If you have items that could be ruined by water or humidity (clothes, books, paperwork), plastic bins are worth the extra cost.

• Packing protection: Gather plenty of bubble wrap, packing paper, and foam peanuts to cushion fragile items. Use furniture blankets or pads to wrap wood furniture and electronics. Furniture covers and mattress bags are a must for fabric and mattresses – they shield against dust, moisture, and pests. Slip your mattress into a plastic or breathable cover, and wrap couches with cotton sheets or moving blankets (not thick plastic that traps moisture). A little wrapping now prevents scratches, mold, or stains later.

• Don’t forget tape and markers: Use quality packing tape to seal boxes tightly (especially the bottoms, with multiple strips). A box that bursts open in transit or storage can cause a disaster. Also, label every box on at least two sides (more on labeling below). Having the right supplies on hand will make the packing process smoother from the start.

Pack Boxes Like a Professional

Packing your boxes correctly will save space and protect your stuff from damage. Follow these pro packing rules for every box:

• Heavy items at the bottom: When filling each box, put heavier items first and lighter items on top. This keeps the box’s weight balanced and prevents lighter things from getting crushed. For example, if you’re packing books and pillows together, line the bottom with books and put pillows on top. Also, avoid making any single box too heavy to lift – use small boxes for books and dishes so they don’t exceed the maximum weight of the box.

• Fill empty space: Do not leave voids or half-empty boxes. If a box isn’t full, stuff packing paper, towels, or clothes in the gaps. Full boxes are sturdier and won’t cave in when stacked. After packing, gently shake the box – if you hear items shifting, add more filler until everything is snug. This prevents items from rattling around (less breakage) and helps boxes hold their shape in a tall stack.

• Seal and reinforce: Close boxes and tape all seams securely. It’s wise to tape along the bottom seam and the edges (“H-taping”) for extra support. A properly sealed box also keeps out dust and bugs. If storing long-term, consider sealing boxes with a light plastic stretch wrap for added protection (but still ensure no moisture inside).

• Label all sides clearly: Don’t toss boxes into storage without labels – you will forget what’s inside. Label every box on multiple sides (and the top) with a brief description of contents. For example, “Kitchen – Pots and Pans” or “Master Closet – Winter Clothes.” That way you can identify a box no matter how it’s stacked. Pro tip: Mark FRAGILE on boxes with breakables, and draw arrows to indicate orientation if needed (e.g., “This Side Up” for a box of lamps).

• Advanced labeling (optional): For super organised storage, try color-coding or numbering your boxes. You could put a colored sticker for each room or category (red for kitchen, blue for bedroom, etc.) to spot groups easily. Or use a numbering system and keep a simple inventory list – e.g., Box #12 corresponds to an inventory note “#12 – Camping Gear & Sports Equipment.” Some people even map out roughly where each numbered box is placed in the units. These steps can be a lifesaver if you have many boxes. At minimum, keep an inventory list of what major items are stored, so nothing gets forgotten.

Disassemble and Protect Furniture

Large furniture pieces can eat up your storage space and are often vulnerable to damage if stored improperly. Taking the time to break furniture down and protect it will save space and keep it safe.

• Disassemble when possible: Take apart bulky furniture into smaller pieces. Remove legs from tables, take shelves out of bookcases, disassemble bed frames, and unscrew headboards. By doing this, a dining table that would sit as a big horizontal slab can instead stand on its side, and bed frame rails can bundle together – huge space savers. Use power tools to speed this up if you have many pieces.

• Bag and tape hardware: As you take furniture apart, gather screws, bolts, and small hardware in a zip-lock bag. Tape the bag securely to the corresponding furniture piece (or label it clearly) so that nothing gets lost. There’s nothing worse than losing a critical bolt when you go to reassemble your bed. Taping the bag to, say, the bed frame or placing it in a dresser drawer keeps it from wandering off.

• Use vertical storage: Store furniture vertically to save floor space. For example, stand a couch on its end if possible (cushions removed and wrapped), stand mattresses upright against a wall, and store table tops on their side (never flat where something could scratch the surface). A stood-up sofa or mattress takes only a couple of feet of width instead of hogging a whole corner. Just make sure these items are stable – if necessary, brace or tie them so they won’t tip over.

• Protect surfaces: Cover all furniture to shield it from dust and scratches. As mentioned, use breathable covers or moving blankets for wood and upholstered items. Wrap table legs in bubble wrap or old towels. For mattresses, use a proper mattress bag or cover to keep it clean. If stacking furniture pieces (like chairs), place padding between them to prevent scuffs.

• Never stack heavy items on fabric: Be careful not to crush your furniture. Do not pile boxes or heavy objects directly on top of cushioned furniture like couches or armchars. The weight can deform cushions or frames over time. Instead, you can put lightweight items (like bedding or bags of clothing) on a covered sofa, but nothing heavy. Preserving that furniture for later use is worth the small extra space to keep it clear.

How to Stack Items Inside the Storage Unit

Now comes the Tetris part – loading your storage unit. Stacking items strategically will let you use every inch of space while keeping the unit safe and accessible. Here’s how to build your storage unit like a pro:

• Start with heavy, bulky items at the back: Begin loading your unit with the largest and heaviest items on the floor at the back wall. This might include appliances (fridge, washer), dressers, heavy tool chests, or stacked boxes of books. These heavy pieces form a stable base and are usually things you won’t need to pull out frequently. Distribute weight evenly across the floor; for example, don’t put all heavy items on one side only. Placing big items at the back also means you won’t have to move them again to reach lighter, frequently-used things near the front.

• Build stable “walls” of boxes: When stacking boxes, think of building a wall, not a pyramid. Stack boxes of similar size together so they form a solid, interlocking column. Always put the heaviest, sturdiest boxes at the bottom and lighter boxes on top. If sizes differ, you can brick-stack (stagger) the boxes to avoid a single vertical seam that could tip. The goal is stability: a neat stack up to the ceiling if possible, with no leaning. Use all vertical space but don’t create an unsafe tower – if a stack wobbles, rearrange it. You can place sheets of cardboard or plywood between layers to help distribute weight. Tip: Keep fragile boxes at the very top of any stack (and mark them clearly).

• Leave a center aisle for access: It might be tempting to fill the unit wall-to-wall, but you’ll regret that when you need something in the back. Plan for a walkway – ideally down the middle of the unit from front to back. Even a narrow aisle (enough to squeeze through) will let you reach items without unpacking everything around them. If your unit is large, you can leave two aisles dividing it into sections. This way, nothing is completely out of reach. It’s a small sacrifice in packed space that pays off big in conveniences.

• Use shelving (especially for long-term storage): Consider adding one or two free-standing shelving units inside your storage units. Shelves are fantastic for organizing and safety – they allow you to use the full height for small boxes and awkward items that don’t stack well. You can place bins, tools, and labeled boxes on shelves and easily see everything. Metal garage shelves or plastic utility shelving work well (make sure they fit your unit’s dimensions and are assembled inside the unit). Shelving keeps your layout tidy and gives frequently accessed items a dedicated place at eye level.

• Keep it stable: As you stack, periodically check that nothing is teetering. Heavy or dense items (like a box of books) should never sit on top of lighter ones (like a box of linens). Balance the load in each section of the unit. If you’ve stacked to the ceiling, you might want to store a step stool in the unit so you can safely add or remove items from high places. Also, try not to stack furniture on top of other furniture unless it’s very stable and flat (e.g., you can stack a lightweight dresser on top of a heavy dresser, but avoid putting heavy boxes on a sofa as mentioned). Think of building a series of secure “cubes” in the unit – you shouldn’t fear everything will collapse when you shut the door.

What Should Go in the Back vs the Front

Strategic placement of items will make your life much easier when you need to retrieve things. Store items based on how soon or often you’ll need them:

• Back of the unit – Long-Term & Rarely Needed Items: Items you won’t need for a long time can go in the back or bottom of stacks. This includes things like seasonal decorations, archive files, old yearbooks, or furniture you’re not using in the foreseeable future. By stashing these in the back, they’re out of the way, and you can pack them tightly. It’s okay if they’re harder to get to because you likely won’t touch them until you empty the unit someday. (Still keep them protected and labeled, just in case!)

• Front of the unit – Frequently Accessed Items: Keep the things you’re likely to grab often right at the front of the unit, near the door. Good examples: toolbox or work tools, which you might visit whenever a household project comes up; important documents you might need access to; seasonal sports gear (e.g. camping equipment in summer, ski gear in winter) during the relevant season; or a box of regularly used kitchen supplies if you’re between moves. Also, if you’re storing inventory or business supplies that you’ll retrieve periodically, keep those items in clear view at the front. The front zone should be for “active” storage – things rotating in and out.

Within the unit, you could even designate zones: e.g., front-left for “frequently used” and front-right for “next most likely.” The main idea is to avoid burying something essential in the back. Take a moment to imagine needing an item – if the thought of digging it out seems painful, then don’t put it at the back! Some people hang a simple map or list inside the unit door showing what’s roughly where. That way, you remember that, say, “ski gear is in the back left corner, behind the camping gear.”

Use Vertical Space the Smart Way

Most storage units waste a lot of vertical space. Smart packers think in terms of cubic feet, not square feet. Here’s how to safely exploit the height of your unit:

• Stack to the ceiling (safely): If you’ve got sturdy boxes and well-protected items, you can stack all the way up. Remember the golden rule: heavier, sturdier boxes at the bottom; lighter and fragile boxes on top. Make sure the top of the stack isn’t touching the ceiling light or interfering with the door closing. Also, don’t stack so high that it’s unstable – if your top boxes wobble when you remove one, reduce the height. It’s better to have two stable stacks of 4 boxes than one stack of 8 that might topple.

• Use furniture as vertical anchors: Leverage your sturdy furniture as part of the stacking strategy. For example, a strong dresser or filing cabinet can act like a platform – you can place lighter boxes on top of it if it’s stable. Similarly, you can slide flat boxes or artwork behind a bookshelf or between a headboard and the wall. Filling every vertical nook ensures no air space is wasted. Never use soft furniture (like a sofa) as a base for stacking – only stack on solid, flat surfaces that can bear weight. A covered wooden dresser, a stacked washer/dryer, or a wardrobe cabinet could hold some boxes on top, effectively adding “shelves” to your unit.

• Avoid soft base items: As a corollary, never stack heavy boxes on soft items like bags of clothes, bean bag chairs, or even plastic totes with soft contents. Those will compress and make the stack unstable. Instead, put squishable items on top of stacks or inside other structures. For instance, you can place a bag of linens at the very top of a box stack as a cushion, but not under anything heavy.

• Mind the balance: Distribute tall stacks across the unit rather than one giant column. If one side of your unit is stacked to the ceiling and the other side is low, consider evening it out. Balance not only prevents tip-overs but also makes sure you’re using vertical space uniformly. If needed, tie or strap together particularly tall or tippy items (like securing a stack of chairs together or anchoring a shelf to a heavy appliance next to it).

By respecting physics and stacking thoughtfully, you can often fit an incredible amount into your unit without anything teetering. When done, step back and inspect: nothing should be leaning, and you should be able to open the door without boxes tumbling out.

Protect Against Moisture and Dust

If your items will be in storage for more than a couple of weeks, it’s crucial to guard against moisture, humidity, and dust. A few simple precautions will keep your belongings fresh and dry:

• Raise items off the floor: Even in a climate-controlled facility, it’s smart to use pallets or boards on the floor of your unit. Concrete floors can get cold and damp, and in rare cases minor flooding or spills can occur. Lifting your boxes and furniture an inch or two off the ground keeps them away from any condensation or minor leaks. Wooden pallets, rubber mats, or even just plastic sheeting can create this moisture barrier. Plus, airflow under boxes helps prevent mildew.

• Avoid plastic wrapping furniture: While it might seem logical to wrap furniture completely in plastic, don’t seal upholstered or wooden furniture in non-breathable plastic for long-term storage. Trapped humidity can cause mold or wood warping. Instead, use breathable covers – cotton sheets, moving blankets, or specialized furniture covers that allow air circulation. You want to protect from dust but still let the item “breathe.” For extra protection, you can loosely drape plastic on top of a sheet-covered item to guard against drips, but never wrap an item air-tight unless it’s in a climate-controlled environment and completely dry.

• Use desiccants and moisture absorbers: In humid climates or long-term situations, throw in some moisture absorbers like silica gel packs or DampRid containers around the unit. These will suck up excess moisture in the air and help prevent mold, corrosion, and musty odors. Baking soda boxes or charcoal briquettes (in open containers) can also absorb odors and moisture. Check them every few months and replace as needed if you have access.

• Climate control for sensitive items: If you opted for a climate-controlled unit, you’ve already handled most moisture concerns. These units keep temperature and humidity in safe ranges year-round. However, still use common sense: dry all appliances thoroughly (leave fridge doors ajar as well), don’t store anything wet, and consider ventilation. If you’re in a standard unit, be extra vigilant: visit the unit on occasion to air it out on a dry day, and ensure nothing is developing condensation or mold. Good airflow (don’t pack boxes pressed right up against every wall – leave a small gap for air) can make a big difference in moisture control.

Finally, dust: over time, dust will settle. Cover the tops of stacks with a sheet or tarp if possible. Wrap electronics or anything with crevices in plastic or put them in their original boxes to keep dust out. With these steps, your items will emerge from storage months later in the same condition they went in.

What Not to Store in a Storage Unit

Trust us – not everything belongs in a storage unit. For safety and legal reasons, storage facilities prohibit certain items. Plus, some things simply won’t survive long in storage. Here are the main things you should never pack into your storage unit:

• Perishable food or anything that attracts pests: Never store groceries, opened food, or perishable items. They will rot, smell, and attract bugs or rodents within days. Even canned goods and pet food are risky to leave for long periods. The odors can permeate your unit and nearby units, leading to infestation and damage. Bottom line: no food, bird seed, or anything edible should be in your unit.

• Hazardous or flammable materials: This includes gasoline, diesel, oils, paint thinners, solvents, fireworks, propane tanks, and chemicals of any kind. Such items are fire hazards and typically strictly forbidden by storage facilities. Even a small gas can or a leftover bottle of paint can create fumes or explosions. Drain all fuel from lawnmowers or equipment before storage. Also, do not store firearms or ammunition – besides being hazardous, they are often against policy (and sometimes illegal).

• Wet or scented items: Don’t put anything wet into storage – make sure your fridge, washing machine, tent, or even surfboard is completely dry. Moist items breed mold fast. Similarly, avoid strong scented items like candles, potpourri, or toiletries; their odor can attract pests. If you must store such items, seal them thoroughly so no scent escapes.

• Live plants or animals: It should go without saying, but no live creatures or plants belong in storage. Plants will die without light and water (and can introduce moisture/pests), and animals or pets must never be left in a storage unit – it’s illegal and inhumane. Also, you cannot live or sleep in a storage unit yourself – it’s not a dwelling.

• Illegal or stolen goods: Storage units are not a loophole for illegal stuff. Anything illegal to possess is illegal to store (drugs, unregistered weapons, stolen property). Reputable facilities cooperate with authorities and often have clauses allowing inspection if they suspect unlawful activity. Don’t risk it.

• Other prohibited items: Check your facility’s rules, but common bans include: car batteries (contain acids), tires (difficult to dispose if they abandon them), medical or biological waste, and any pressurized tanks (like scuba tanks, unless emptied). Also avoid storing irreplaceable valuables (like cash, very important documents, or jewelry) – not because it’s illegal, but because storage might void insurance or be too risky. Use a safe deposit box or keep high-value items with you.

In short, when in doubt, ask the facility manager. They can tell you exactly what’s not allowed. It’s better to be safe than sorry – being turned away on move-in day because of a prohibited item or, worse, having your unit infested or catching fire due to something you stored improperly, would be a nightmare.

Final Checklist Before Locking the Unit

Before you close that door and put the lock on, run through this quick checklist to ensure you’ve packed your storage unit in the best way possible:

• ✓ Clear walking path: You’ve left a center aisle or access space so you can reach items in the back without unloading half the unit.

• ✓ All boxes labeled: Every box or bin has visible labels (on the side) describing its contents. This will save you tons of time later.

• ✓ Fragile items secured: Anything delicate is wrapped, cushioned, and placed on top of stacks or on shelves. No fragile box is underneath heavier items.

• ✓ Furniture protected: Furniture is disassembled (if possible) and covered with sheets/blankets or proper covers. Nothing heavy is sitting directly on upholstery or glass. Hardware for furniture is bagged and taped to the item.

• ✓ Items off the floor: Boxes or furniture are on pallets or blocks, especially if the unit isn’t climate-controlled. You’ve also placed moisture absorbers if needed and left a tiny gap from walls for airflow.

• ✓ Inventory saved: You have a basic inventory list of what’s in the unit (even just a note in your phone). Ideally, you also snapped a photo of the unit’s layout for reference. This can be very handy if you need to remind yourself where something is without tearing the unit apart.

• ✓ Good lock in place: Finally, ensure you use a sturdy lock (typically a disc lock or heavy padlock recommended by the facility). Test it to make sure it’s secured properly. Give the unit door a tug to ensure it’s closed and locked. Don’t leave the facility until you’re sure your lock is clicked shut and you have the keys (or code) in hand.

Closing up your well-packed storage unit should feel satisfying. You’ve effectively created a mini warehouse that’s organized, space-efficient, and safe for your belongings.

Conclusion

Packing a storage unit the right way might take a bit more effort upfront, but it pays off with big dividends. By following this guide, you’ve maximized every inch of your unit without risking damage to your items. You’ve also ensured that when you need to grab something, you can find it quickly instead of sifting through chaos. Remember, a well-packed unit saves you money (no wasted space or need for a second unit) and protects your investments (no broken furniture or ruined keepsakes from poor storage). Most importantly, you’ve treated your storage unit as an extension of your home – organized and under control.

Before you go, double-check if the unit size still meets your needs; if you ever feel like you’re cramming things in too tightly, consider upgrading to a slightly larger unit for easier access (often the cost difference is small compared to the convenience). And if you haven’t already, label and list everything – future you will thank you!

With everything packed properly, you can lock up with confidence. Your belongings are now stored safely and efficiently. When it’s time to retrieve them – be it next month or years from now – you’ll be able to walk in, find what you need, and move on with your day. Happy storing!

(Ready to find the perfect storage solution? Find the right storage unit near you with our handy comparison tool – compare sizes, prices, and features to get the best fit for your needs.