A well-organized storage unit saves you time, protects your belongings, and makes retrieval a breeze — whether you're storing for two weeks or two years. Whether you're in the middle of a move, clearing space during a renovation, or just finally dealing with the overflow from your home, these 10 practical tips from the TBG Storage team will help you make the most of every square foot.
Choose the Right Unit Size — Then Go One Size Up
It's almost always better to have a little extra space than to run out of room mid-move. Use online size guides as a starting point, then consider renting the next size up. A 10×10 fits about a one-bedroom apartment; a 10×20 handles a full three-bedroom home. If you're unsure, call us at (717) 219-7099 and we'll help you choose.
Use Uniform Box Sizes
Mixing box sizes makes stacking nearly impossible — things topple, space gets wasted, and retrieval becomes a nightmare. Invest in a set of uniform small, medium, and large boxes from a moving supply store or home improvement center. They stack cleanly, hold more per square foot, and make your unit look and function far better.
Label Every Box on the Side, Not the Top
This is one of the most common mistakes people make. Once boxes are stacked, you can only see the sides — so that's where the labels need to be. Use a thick marker and label clearly: "Kitchen — Dishes," "Master Bedroom — Winter Clothes," etc. Color-coded tape by room is even better.
Keep an Aisle Down the Middle
It's tempting to pack a unit from floor to ceiling and wall to wall, but that means you can't access anything in the back without moving everything in the front. Leave a 2-foot aisle down the center of your unit. It costs a little space but saves enormous amounts of time and frustration when you need to retrieve something.
Put Frequently Accessed Items Near the Front
Think about what you might need during your storage period and keep those items right inside the door. Seasonal clothing, tools you use regularly, important documents — these should be front and center. Items you won't need until move-out can go in the back.
Disassemble Furniture to Save Space
Bed frames, dining tables, bookshelves, and desks take up dramatically less space when broken down. Remove legs, take apart frames, and store the hardware in labeled zip-lock bags taped to the corresponding piece. You'll often fit two or three times as much furniture in the same unit by disassembling first.
Store Mattresses and Sofas Vertically
Mattresses and sofas stored flat take up enormous floor space. Standing them on their sides against the wall frees up the center of your unit for boxes and smaller items. Use mattress bags to protect them from dust and minor moisture.
Protect Furniture with Pads and Covers
Wood furniture scratches easily and upholstery attracts dust. Wrap furniture pieces in moving blankets or furniture pads, and use mattress and sofa covers for upholstered items. Plastic wrap is also great for keeping drawer sets together and protecting finished surfaces during the move and storage period.
Take a Photo Inventory Before You Lock Up
Before you close and lock your unit for the first time, take a few photos of everything inside — a wide shot and close-ups of valuable items. This gives you a reference for what's stored where, and provides documentation in the unlikely event of a claim. Store the photos in your phone or email them to yourself for safekeeping.
Use Every Cubic Foot — Fill Drawers and Hollow Items
Dresser drawers, laundry baskets, large pots, and other hollow items are wasted space if left empty. Fill them with soft items like clothing, linens, or towels. Just avoid overfilling drawers to the point where the weight could damage the dresser frame during the move.
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