How to label and inventory your storage unit so you can actually find things later
Packing is the first step in your storage journey process, and we know, it’s a lot. You’re probably standing in your garage looking at the most random items and wondering how you are going to manage it all. Taking the time to label and organize upfront saves you a ton of time down the line.
Get a plan in place for your storage unit
Think about what you’ll actually need to access often. Imagine walking into your unit and how it would best be set up for ease. Items near the front should be seasonal items and decorations, outdoor furniture, camping or sports equipment, etc. If you are storing items like photographs, old documents, memories, those can certainly be closer to the rear of your unit.
Leave yourself the space to walk around your unit, too.
Label everything
We’ve all done it. Thrown a bunch of items in a box when we were moving and put MISC or kitchen items or something too vague on the top.
Be specific in your labeling. Bedroom items might be throw pillows and bedding. Memories might be high school yearbooks and photos from college.
Think about how your unit is going to be set up and where the labels will be placed. You might want to label a few sides of the box, not just the top, so no matter where the box is, you can see what’s inside.
Use permanent markers so you don’t run the risk of using a pen or pencil, which will rub off easily or fade, especially over time. A big strip of duct tape, adhesive labels or even writing directly on the box all work. Choose the method that works best for you.
Color coding is also a nice option and can be done easily with store-bought labels or tape. For example, yellow is kitchen, green is sporting gear. While it takes more time upfront, think about the time savings down the line.
Keep a Master Inventory List
We have so many tools that allow us to keep lists these days. From the notes app on our phone, to Google Sheets or Docs, to Microsoft Excel to a good old-fashioned notebook. Again, pick what works best for you and will be easy to access. As you pack, number your boxes or use another kind of letter or code system and jot down what’s inside.
For instance, Kitchen box A has knives and grandma’s potato peeler.
If you are using an online tool, you can also share the list with other family members who might be accessing the unit, too, so everyone can find what they need quickly.
Along with the inventory, you can even take some photos of the inside of your unit, so if you need to tell someone where to find something, you can look back. For example: The tent is on top of the Christmas boxes!
Labeling also goes well with dating the boxes. Storing old taxes is important, but after 3-7 years (depending on your situation), you can most likely get rid of all of the extra paper. Setting expiration dates or reminders into your inventory list helps keep items clear and who says you can’t declutter the storage space every once in a while.
A little upfront effort goes a long way in a storage unit. And when you’re set up with a clean, organized space, getting in and out quickly is easy.
Looking for a storage facility?
At Guardian Storage, we want your experience to be as smooth as possible from the moment you move in. With drive-up access, well-lit facilities, and the Guardian app for easy entry, we’ve made it simple to pop in, grab what you need, and get on with your day. And when you’re ready to shred that old paperwork, visit one of our free Shred-it events!
Find a location near you at guardianstorage.com or call us at 1-888-373-7368. We’re happy to help you find the right unit size for everything you’re storing.
