After you have decided to utilize a self-storage unit and picked out the best size, the next step is to decide how you want to pack everything into your space. The last thing you want to do is move in without some sort of plan. This will cause frustration as soon as you need that box of sweatshirt because winter came early! And you are so cold you can’t stand it! And you’re sure you put it in the closet! Only you didn’t. It’s in the “winter” box. Good luck finding it if it’s not labeled. Here are some tips as you move into your new home-away-from-home (only you can’t live there): Create access to what you will need on a regular basis. Store all that can wait in the back. Pack those in the truck last, so you can move them into the unit first. Leave yourself a walkway so you can get to the back of the unit. Store furniture in the back and cover with plastic. You most likely won’t need furniture until you’re ready to move back out. Arrange boxes by season or by need. All seasonal clothes in one spot, crafty stuff in another, summer toys in another. Stack smart. Fragile items should go on top. Pack boxes nice and full (not too full) so that when you stack them, they don’t collapse. Label, label, label. Make sure all labels are clear and readable from a few feet away. Label multiple sides so you can read the contents from multiple angles. When you begin to move into the unit, make sure all label sides are facing out. Check with your Santa Ana self-storage location to see if they offer labels for customer use. Create an inventory of what is in which box. This is especially helpful when you have random items that get thrown into a box. Take this with you when you go to your storage unit. It may not seem like a big deal, but having a plan before you move into a self-storage unit is a helpful step that will save you headaches later. Especially when winter comes early and you’re freezing. Call or visit us today South Coast Self Storage 3480 West Warner Avenue Santa Ana, CA 92704 (714) 988-2161