Here’s your updated blog post without tip #8:
Moving Tips for Self Storage: How to Save Time, Space, and Money
Moving your belongings into self storage doesn’t have to be stressful—or expensive. With a little planning and some smart strategies, you can maximize your storage space, protect your items, and cut costs along the way. Whether you’re downsizing, decluttering, or in between homes, these tips will help you make the most of your storage rental.
The less you store, the less you’ll spend.
Before you start boxing everything up, go through your belongings and ask yourself:
Have I used this in the last year?
Is it worth paying to store?
Could I sell, donate, or recycle it instead?
Selling unwanted items online or at a garage sale can help offset your moving and storage costs.
Paying for unused space is like buying a bigger house than you need.
Measure large items (furniture, appliances) ahead of time.
Use online storage size calculators to estimate the smallest unit that still fits your needs.
Remember: vertical space matters—stacking can help you go smaller.
Organized packing saves both space and time later.
Use sturdy, uniform boxes—they stack better and reduce wasted space.
Fill boxes completely so they don’t collapse when stacked.
Place heavier boxes on the bottom, lighter ones on top.
Disassemble furniture to save room.
Wrap fragile items in towels or blankets to avoid buying bubble wrap.
Nothing’s worse than digging through dozens of boxes to find a single item.
Label boxes on multiple sides with clear descriptions.
Create a simple inventory list on paper or in your phone.
This prevents unnecessary trips to your storage unit—saving you time and gas money.
The way you arrange your unit impacts both accessibility and space efficiency.
Place items you’ll need sooner near the front.
Store seasonal items in the back.
Use shelves or pallets to keep boxes off the ground and prevent water damage.
Stack to the ceiling when possible—but keep walkways clear so you can reach items without unloading everything.
Not all storage facilities are priced the same.
Shop around—look for promotions, first-month discounts, or referral deals.
Ask about long-term rental discounts.
See if they’ll match a competitor’s rate.
If you don’t have enough to fill a unit, consider splitting one with a friend or family member. Just make sure to agree on payment, access, and how the space will be divided.
Weekends and month-end are the busiest (and sometimes pricier) times for moving truck rentals. If you can, move mid-week and mid-month to save on truck and labor costs.
Some homeowners or renters insurance covers items in storage. If so, you can skip the facility’s insurance policy and save that monthly fee.
Bottom Line:
A little planning goes a long way when moving into self storage. By decluttering, packing smart, and choosing the right unit size, you can save money while keeping your belongings safe and accessible.