The Comedic Guide to Storing Your Goods: Avoiding Chaos if you use Storage!

Ah, storage units! They’re like the closets of the universe - filled with everything you didn’t know you needed but probably won’t remember you have until it’s time to move again. True?

If you’re looking to avoid the “what on earth is in here?” moment, let’s dive into the hilariously chaotic world of storage solutions and what Shift Your Storage sees and sorts everyday! 

Choose the Right Size - But Don’t Overdo It!

First things first: pick the right size unit. If you’re storing a single box of holiday decorations, don’t rent a unit that could fit a small elephant, storage facilities do their best to guide you but ultimately the choice is yours. But if you’re planning to cram in Grandma’s entire collection of ceramic frogs, well, you might want to consider a space bigger than your first apartment or at least a half garage size maybe?

Pro Tip: If you have moved everything into the storage unit and know you could go smaller - tell the storage facility. Move again. Think of the bank balance… 

Create a Plan? Or Just Wing It? 

Now, some people like to have a grand plan. They’ll draw diagrams, label everything meticulously, and even color-code their boxes. And then there are those who think “winging it” is a legitimate strategy. If you’re in the latter group, be prepared for the moment you need to open that storage unit and have to sift through 47 boxes labeled “Miscellaneous.”

Remember, planning is just another word for “keeping your sanity intact.” 

SYS is meticulous in the way they inventory the unit.. So sanity can stay intact!

Quality Packing Materials? Or That Old Wine Box?

When it comes to packing, invest in some solid boxes - most storage companies provide this with some having higher quality than others. We’re talking sturdy, not the wine boxes you’ve been saving because “one day I might need them.” 

Trust me, your collection of “slightly used” wine boxes will not protect your fragile items like your MIL’s china. And while we’re at it, bubble wrap is your friend, a very very kind friend. Oh and there’s nothing more satisfying than popping it when you have finally unwrapped those delicate ornaments.. 

Labeling: The Key to Not Losing Your Mind

Label, label, label! If you don’t label your boxes, you’ll be left playing a game of “What’s Inside?” every time you need something or when you finally discover the box again after years in storage. Get creative! Use phrases like “Emergency Party Supplies” for that weird stash of disco balls and inflatable flamingos you never thought you’d need. 

SYS can tell you confidently most people do not label their boxes. 

Vertical Space: Not Just for Cats

Take advantage of vertical space - after all, you’re not a cat, but that doesn’t mean you can’t play tetris! Get some sturdy shelves to maximize your storage potential or make sure you put your heavy items at the back and bottom. Storage facilities do provide shelving for extra cost but if you value your items - this could be the way to go. Just be careful; if you’re stacking boxes like a game of Jenga, you may want to consider gravity. Nothing says “I have my life together” quite like a box avalanche in a storage unit.

Climate Control? Because Your Stuff Deserves to be Cool.. 

If you’re storing delicate items like art or electronics, think about renting a climate-controlled storage unit or at least a storage facility that gives a damn. Let’s be real: your collection of “vintage” sweaters (read: 2000s) doesn’t need to endure the extremes of summer heat or winter cold. Besides, wouldn’t you want your stuff to be as comfortable as you are on your couch if you are dropping hundreds of dollars every month for something you never see? Sounds logical no?

Security: Keep Out the Possums

Choose a storage facility with good security. You don’t want possums or rats staging a heist on your valuables. Make sure your unit has surveillance cameras and is well-lit. Storage companies who care about your goods - will have the extras within their facilities. If you hear a suspicious noise, it’s probably not a friendly possum, smell a “dead animal” it's probably also a result of a roof full of all types of wildlife.. 

Regular Check-Ins: Like a Bad Relationship

Lastly, make regular visits to your storage unit. What is the point otherwise? This is the battle SYS deal with daily. Think of it like checking in on that friend who keeps saying they’re “just fine” when you know they’re actually a hot mess. And that hot mess is around $400 a month. You’ll want to make sure everything is in order, and who knows you might even find something you forgot you had or decide to give SYS a ring to sort through it for you!

Conclusion

Storing your goods doesn’t have to be a tragedy slowly unfolding on your credit card. With a little planning, some good humor, a few decent shelves, a high level of knowledge around tetris and perhaps a touch of chaos, you can turn your storage unit into a well-organized (albeit slightly ridiculous) sanctuary for your stuff. Happy storing!