How to Pack a 10×10 Storage Unit

What can I fit in a 10×10 storage unit?

Before we get into our specific tips, it’s important to clarify just how much space a 10×10 storage unit actually provides. You can think of it as being basically the size of a one-car garage. Maybe that doesn’t sound like a lot of room, but if you pack properly, you can easily fit the contents of three full bedrooms, including mattress sets, bed frames, tables, armchairs, and assorted boxes.

In other words, if you need a unit in which you can fit the entire contents of your home, a space of this size may not quite be sufficient. But if you’re just looking to clear a little space, whether for a home showing or simply to declutter, then you’ll probably be all set with this standard unit. Additionally, most moving professionals will tell you that a unit of this size offers plenty of space if you’re moving out of an apartment, though again, you’ll need to pack prudently if you wish to take full advantage of this unit size.

How much stuff can you put in a 10×10 storage unit?

As you consider the unit size you need, and try to decide between storage space of different dimensions, you’ll want to follow a few quick steps to make sure you’re not getting too little space, or else spending for too much.

To begin with, we’d simply recommend taking stock of your household inventory. What do you need to store, exactly? Remember, a unit like the one we’re talking about is good for three bedrooms, or perhaps a family room and two bedrooms. You may also wish to measure some of your larger furniture items, determining the smallest possible storage space in which they can fit.

As you read about different storage areas, remember that different pieces of furniture come in different sizes. For example, a unit may say that it can fit five mattresses, but that may not be the case if your mattresses are all big, bulky, oversized ones. It’s important to remember that these are guidelines, not rules that are set in stone.

Also remember that, to store certain items in your unit, you’ll need to turn or stack them in different configurations. Packing your unit effectively will require some strategy, some creativity, and some good spacial reasoning!

What is the average cost of a 10×10 storage unit?

As you consider the process of getting a storage unit for your home or business, one important step is to check on pricing. This will be another factor that determines what size storage facility you end up renting.

Here at Smith Valley Storage, we provide storage units in Greenwood, IN and you can expect to spend about $75 a month for a storage unit that’s 10×10 and not heated or cooled. For a heated or cooled space, the cost is about $105 per month. You’re always welcome to contact us with specific questions about pricing, or for our recommendation on the unit size you need to store your belongings.

How do you pack a storage unit?

Now let’s get into some tips for ensuring that the unit size you pick is sufficient to store all your boxes and other items, including furniture. As you get ready for packing and moving day, here’s some advice on using your storage area as effectively as can be.

1. Make a list of all the items you’re placing into boxes and/or moving into your storage facility. Maintaining an inventory is key, and you might also want to affix labels to your boxes to denote what’s in each one. When packing storage units, organization is a must.
2. If at all possible, try to stick to just one or two standard sizes of boxes. That makes it a lot easier for you to strategically stack your stuff and really maximize your use of the storage unit.
3. You’ll want to put stuff in boxes whenever you can, rather than leaving items “loose” in your storage area. This prevents them from getting dirty, dusty, or damaged. Of course, you don’t have to use boxes for large items like furniture, but stick with boxes whenever possible.
4. Try to fill each box as fully as you can, making full use of the allotted storage space. Put heavy items in the bottom of the box and lighter items on top. This will help prevent your boxes from collapsing or getting crushed as you stack them in the storage area.
5. Try to avoid plastic storage items, especially plastic bags. They may seem like good, cheap storage solutions, but actually, using plastic bags can invite the growth of mildew. The last thing you want is to one day search through your storage area and find that there’s been an outbreak of mildew or mold.
6. Store your refrigerators or freezers with the door slightly ajar. Thoroughly defrost before you store. And if you’re storing a washing machine, make sure it’s completely dry before you move it into your storage space.
7. Emphasize accessibility. Make sure you create an aisle that allows you to slip between boxes and access what you need, at any given moment. Keep that aisle clear in case you need to enter your storage facility and search for a specific item.
8. Consider using shelving to maximize your storage area, specifically stacking things vertically and not leaving a bunch of unused space at the top of your storage area.

These are our tips for making good, effective use of storage units. With additional questions, or if you’d like details on specific storage units, reach out to us today!

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How To Pack Your Storage Guides

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• How to Pack a 10×30 Storage Unit