First-Time Storage User’s Guide

The self storage process is easy enough to understand—pack, move, and load—but it can often leave individuals uncertain about how and where to begin their journey. Fortunately, the Right Move Storage team offers a comprehensive list of storage tips and advice for first-time users.

Discover how to select the perfect storage unit, the key features to look for, and other tips to make your storage experience a breeze!

1. Choosing the Right Storage Unit Size

The first step in the storage process is assessing your items, determining what you plan to store, and deciding on a storage unit size that best fits your needs. Storage units come in various dimensions, from the size of a standard closet to the size of a large garage, but you need to know how to pack it right to maximize your storage value.

If you only need to store a few boxes, a smaller 5×5 storage unit might be the best option. But, if you’re storing a mattress, a few pieces of bulky bedroom furniture, and seasonal decorations, a larger 10×20 storage unit will be more suitable. Explore our storage unit size guide to determine how much each unit size can accommodate your needs and find the perfect space today.

2. Storage Unit Considerations: Climate Control and Insurance

A climate-controlled storage unit is best if you plan to store temperature-sensitive items like leather, vinyl records, wood furniture, lace clothing, electronics, documents, and paper products. Items not stored in a stable environment may experience damage from exposure to fluctuating temperatures, resulting in bending, cracking, fading, warping, and other forms of damage.

Remember to keep personal storage insurance in mind. It’s essential for safeguarding your belongings against unexpected events. Find out if your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance includes coverage for stored items, or get storage insurance through a Right Move Storage trusted third-party provider.

3. Invest in High-Quality Packing Materials

By choosing top-notch materials, you’re not just safeguarding your possessions—you’re creating peace of mind for yourself. From standard, stackable cardboard boxes and plastic storage bins to specialized dish pack and file storage boxes, here are some supplies you should invest in for your items:

Our offices have packing and moving supplies available on-site for purchase to help you skip a trip to the store. Save money with one of our affordable bundles!

4. Label Everything and Keep an Inventory

Clearly label each box, tote, bag, and container you use to make locating your items later on more manageable. Use removable labels, changing or updating them as needed, and distinctly mark the category of the items inside.

It’s also a great idea to make a short inventory of the box’s contents and temporarily tape it to the top or place it on the inside. This can help you track what’s inside each box and make unpacking easier.

5. Pack Strategically

When loading your storage unit, remember to keep your belongings organized, easily accessible, and well-protected. Begin creating a sturdy base layer by placing heavy boxes and large furniture items on the floor. Then, pack lighter and smaller items on top of this base layer, ensuring you only stack as high as you can reach. Leave an aisle down the middle of your unit so you can easily maneuver around the space.

For more detailed information, explore our comprehensive storage and packing tips.

6. Disassemble Furniture and Large Items

Taking apart furniture and large items before moving them can help safeguard your possessions during transportation and optimize the packing process in your storage unit. You can efficiently utilize the vertical space available for storage by disassembling smaller components such as drawers and legs. Additionally, disassembled items are easier to transport from one location to another.

7. Use Vertical Space When Possible

Maximizing the vertical space in your storage unit is crucial for efficient organization. Shelving units and pegboards can help you create additional space without occupying any valuable floor room.

8. Keep Important Items in Front

For extra convenience, keep items you’ll need frequently near the front of the storage unit. Seasonal decorations are a great example of belongings you consistently rotate in and out of storage throughout the changing seasons. If you have paperwork or documents you don’t actively need but must keep, stash them near the back of your unit.

9. Protect Your Items From Dust, Dings, and Scratches

Protecting your furniture pieces while in long- or short-term storage is essential. To preserve these items as you move, use thick moving blankets to cushion any sharp edges and prevent dents. We also recommend grabbing furniture pads to provide extra protection, deter scratches, and provide additional padding between stacked items. You can also cover your furniture in plastic wrap to repel dust and dirt.

Choose Right Move Self Storage for Your First Storage Unit

Let the Right Move Storage team guide you through every stage of your storage journey, whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned self storage pro. Explore our FAQ page and blog for more helpful details about the storage process.
Find the closest Right Move Storage facility near you with locations in California, Louisiana, Oklahoma, and Texas. For more information or answers to your questions, complete our online contact form!