Storage units are incredibly useful when you need extra space for your belongings, whether you’re moving, decluttering, or storing seasonal items. But what happens when your storage unit is full, and you still have more things to store?
Rather than feeling frustrated, there are several practical solutions to help you expand your storage capacity.
In this article, we’ll discuss seven options for making the most of your storage situation, from improving your organization to considering more advanced storage alternatives.
1. Declutter and Reorganize Your Current Unit
The simplest way to increase space in your storage unit is by decluttering and reorganizing the items you’ve already stored. Over time, it’s easy to accumulate things you don’t need, which can take up valuable space.
- How to Do It: Take everything out of the unit, review each item, and decide if it’s truly necessary to keep. Donate, sell, or dispose of items that no longer serve a purpose. After decluttering, reorganize the remaining items using vertical space, stacking boxes efficiently and storing larger, heavier items at the bottom.
2. Switch to Space-Saving Storage Solutions
Often, it’s not the amount of stuff you have but the way it’s packed that causes clutter. If you’re using mismatched or bulky boxes, it’s time to switch to more efficient containers.
- How to Do It: Choose uniform, stackable containers that optimize space. Consider using vacuum-sealed bags for soft items like clothes, blankets, or bedding, as these reduce volume. Additionally, look for specialty storage options such as modular shelving or under-bed storage bins to maximize every inch of your unit.
3. Utilize Vertical Space with Shelving Units
Many storage units have more vertical space than we tend to use. Installing shelves allows you to store more items efficiently without cluttering the floor.
- How to Do It: Invest in sturdy shelving that fits within the height and dimensions of your unit. This will allow you to store smaller boxes, bins, or household items on the shelves. Ensure that heavier items go on the lower shelves, with lighter items on top, to avoid causing any instability.
4. Consider Upgrading to a Larger Unit
If reorganizing or optimizing your current space doesn’t provide enough room, upgrading to a larger storage unit might be your best option. Many storage facilities offer a wide range of unit sizes, so you don’t have to make a huge leap in terms of cost or space.
- How to Do It: Contact your storage facility about available larger unit options. Inquire about any promotions or discounts for upgrading your current rental. Once you’ve secured a bigger unit, plan out your layout carefully to take full advantage of the extra space.
5. Rent an Additional Storage Unit
If upgrading to a larger unit isn’t feasible or you want to store different categories of items separately, renting an additional storage unit could be a viable solution.
- How to Do It: Ask your storage facility about renting multiple units. Many facilities offer discounts for customers renting more than one unit. Use the new unit to store different categories of items, such as business inventory, seasonal decorations, or personal belongings.
This way, you can access specific items without needing to dig through everything in one large unit.
6. Optimize Seasonal and Long-Term Storage
Seasonal items can take up a significant amount of space, especially when they’re only needed for part of the year. By rotating seasonal items in and out of storage, you can ensure your unit is always utilized efficiently.
- How to Do It: Organize your items based on when you’ll need them. Items like holiday decorations, winter clothing, or seasonal sports equipment can be swapped out when they’re not in use.
Label boxes clearly and store the off-season items toward the back, so you don’t have to move everything around when accessing things you need more regularly.
7. Store in Off-Site Locations or Partner with Local Warehouses
If your storage unit is packed and you can’t justify renting a second one or upgrading to a larger unit, look into off-site options that may offer more space for larger or long-term storage needs. Some facilities and warehouse services allow you to rent larger spaces without committing to an entire storage unit, or even give you access to larger facilities for business-related inventory.
- How to Do It: Research nearby warehouses, or contact self-storage facilities that offer larger off-site options. Many warehouses provide affordable long-term storage for bulk items or business goods, and they can cater to specific storage needs such as inventory, vehicles, or oversized furniture.
If you run a business, some facilities even offer logistics services to help with sorting and inventory management. For personal use, a local warehouse may have the option to store larger items in bulk, freeing up your storage unit for smaller, more frequently used belongings.
Conclusion
A full storage unit doesn’t have to signal the end of the road for your storage needs. By employing these seven strategies—from decluttering and reorganizing to upgrading your unit or exploring off-site warehouse options—you can expand your storage options and optimize the space you have.
Whether you’re upgrading to a larger unit, renting a second one, or simply reorganizing your existing space, there’s always a solution to meet your growing storage needs. With a bit of creativity and the right approach, you can ensure your storage unit stays organized and effective, keeping your belongings safe and accessible for the long term.
If you’re looking for a storage facility to store your belongings, SuperStorage San Diego has got you covered in this department. Here at SuperStorage San Diego, we offer a wide range of unit selections and top-notch security. To learn more about our self-storage facility, please check out our website at https://superstoragesandiego.com/.