How to Make Your Temporary Storage More Efficient with 5 Simple Tips

We live with constant transitions—downsizing, upsizing, renovations, moves, and many other unexpected events. When you need some extra space to deal with life’s changes, there are temporary storage options to bring organization back to your day to day. 

Self storage is a popular choice for secure and dependable storage. It is an easy and effective solution to create more space for your items, whether you are storing short term or ongoing. Follow these five expert storage and packing tips to get the most out of your storage experience.

Image Generated in Freepik

5 Steps to Make the Best Use of Your Temporary Storage Unit

1. Pick the Right Type of Storage for Your Needs

Different types of storage units offer different levels of protection for their contents. Choose indoor storage with temperature control if you have precious goods such as electronics, furniture, or crucial documents. 

Memphis’ heat and humidity can be unpleasant. Storing sensitive objects in an environment that can expose them to changing conditions can result in warping, mold, and mildew. A temperature-controlled storage unit protects your belongings and keeps them in peak condition all year round. 

2. Choose the Right Size Unit: Use a Storage Calculator

A common mistake is to rent a unit that is either too small (resulting in cramped chaos) or too large (spending money on unused space). Before you choose your unit, use our handy storage calculator to ensure it is the correct fit for the load you are looking to store. This tool estimates how much room you need based on the amount and type of goods you intend to stash, allowing you to maximize efficiency. 

If you have any other questions about how much space you should rent for your items, contact Home Star Storage to talk through your needs with an expert.

3. Prioritize Security & Accessibility

The level of protection and security at self storage facilities varies, so always scout out the complete plan of a facility when you are considering renting with them.

Home Star Storage prioritizes your items’ safety with features like gated entrance and video cameras. Learn more about our on-site management, well-lit premises, and access hours to ensure the facility meets your needs.

4. Items You Should Never Store

While temporary storage units are great for furniture, seasonal accessories, and household belongings, there are some dangerous or harmful items that should never be stored in self storage. To protect your belongings and others, avoid storing the following:

• Food or perishable items attract pests and spoil quickly.
• Lithium batteries are a serious fire hazard.
• Flammable or dangerous substances include gasoline, propane, fireworks, and paint.
• It is hazardous and criminal to keep living creatures (including people!).
• Appliances with leftover fluids, such as washing machines and freezers, should be adequately drained to prevent mildew and mold growth. 

Read through our storage regulations in our self storage FAQ.

5. Label Everything & Create an Inventory

Nothing is worse than desperately needing an item but not knowing where it is. Before storing, take a few minutes to label all your boxes and keep an inventory list of the important items in those boxes. There is really no right or wrong way to label—just find a system that works for you.

Grouping comparable items together can help you save space. If you have all your seasonal clothing containers in one area of your storage unit and all your holiday décor in another corner, you are better equipped for easy retrieval the next time you need to access your unit, because you don’t have to go searching through your entire unit to find what you need. This simple organizational strategy will make finding what you’re looking for easier, keep your area tidy, and help you stay organized over time.

Ready to Find Your Temporary Storage Solution?

Home Star Storage in Memphis, TN, provides a convenient and secure solution for moving, decluttering, or temporary storage during life’s transitions. You can rent online to speed up your moving process without any fuss. Book your storage space with us today to take the stress out of your next big move!