Storage units sure do come in handy when you have a lot of belongings, but are limited on space. Whether you're moving into a smaller place, moving out of your parent's home, or just trying to downsize the amount of belongings you have in your home, a storage unit is a great idea to help store your items. You'll need to pack your items and your storage unit properly in order to help save space and so you can easily find your belongings later. See below for some packing tips to use when storing your items.

Pack In Like-Size Boxes

Use like-size boxes to help you when stacking them later in your unit. It's easier to stack boxes that are the same size than ones of all different sizes. Be sure to also use new boxes, rather than used boxes that can sink into one another. Fill the boxes up completely to help prevent any sagging. Keep heavier items in smaller boxes (such as books or dishes).

Use Bubble Wrap

Don't take any chances with your breakables, use bubble wrap or at least newspaper to help cushion items such as glass, china or mirrors. Wrap the items entirely with the bubble wrap and seal it with a piece of tape. You can find bubble wrap at your local moving/storage store, or at most big box stores. 

Label All Boxes

Label all of your boxes on all four sides with the contents of the box. Don't just use generic labels such as "kitchen", list out whether it's utensils, pans, bowls, etc. This will make finding something you need a little easier on you. Labeling all four sides will help you in case you move the boxes around, you don't have to worry about where the label is located.

Keep Most-Used Items In Front

When storing your items, keep the items you may use most right out in front so you can easily find them. 

Allow For An Aisle-Way

Be sure to allow for an aisle-way in your storage unit. This will help you move throughout your storage unit freely and get to any items in the back or along the sides. Also keep items away from the wall a bit so you can move all the way around, and also to prevent any damage to your boxes from humidity and to allow for ventilation. Leave room in between box stacks as well for the same reason.

Your storage unit will come in handy, but if you don't pack your items properly you could end up with a mess of broken things. Pack properly, and store your items properly inside the unit to protect your items and to allow for easy access when you need them later.