Renting a storage unit is one of the easiest ways to declutter your home, prepare for a move, or store valuables long-term. But even with the right size unit, many people quickly run out of space simply because the packing and organizing process wasn’t done efficiently. With smart planning and the right strategy, you can double the usable space inside your storage unit—and make it easier to access your belongings whenever you need them.
Whether you’re storing seasonal items, furniture, business inventory, or personal keepsakes, this guide will show you how to get the most out of every square foot of your storage unit.
Before you move a single box into your unit, take a few minutes to plan. Ask yourself:
What items will I need to access frequently?
Which items are heavy and need to be stored on the bottom?
What can be stacked safely?
Draw a quick sketch of the layout or divide items into categories. This step alone can save you hours of headache later.
One of the biggest space wasters in storage units is mismatched boxes. Boxes that vary in size don’t stack evenly, creating gaps and unstable piles.
For maximum efficiency:
Use uniform-sized boxes
Choose sturdy boxes that won’t collapse
Avoid overpacking so lids stay flat and stackable
This creates clean, vertical columns that maximize height and stability.
Furniture takes up a huge amount of space when left fully assembled. To save room, break down items like:
Bed frames
Dining tables
Shelving units
Desks
Bundle and label all screws, hardware, and small pieces so you don’t lose them. Store the hardware in a bag and tape it securely to the furniture piece or place it in a labeled essentials box.
Most storage units have ceilings between 8 and 10 feet tall, but many renters don’t use this vertical room effectively.
To maximize height:
Stack boxes from heaviest (bottom) to lightest (top)
Use shelves or upright racks
Stand mattresses upright
Store long items vertically (ladders, rugs, poles, etc.)
Vertical storage not only saves floor space—it also keeps the unit easier to navigate.
This is one of the most overlooked space-saving tips: use your furniture to store smaller items.
Examples:
Pack lightweight items inside dresser drawers
Place linens or clothes inside a wardrobe cabinet
Slide boxes under tables
Store décor or kitchenware in empty suitcases
You’re paying for every square inch—use it wisely!
You’ll thank yourself later.
Clear labeling helps you:
Quickly find what you’re looking for
Avoid opening unnecessary boxes
Keep similar items grouped together
Use large, bold writing and label all sides of the box so you can read it from any angle.
This is a must if you’ll be accessing your unit regularly.
Create a narrow aisle down the center so you can reach the back without needing to unload everything. Even a small 2–3 foot walkway can make a huge difference in accessibility and organization.
Think about the things you’ll need the most:
Holiday décor
Tools
Seasonal clothing
Business supplies
Kids’ toys
Keep these items closest to the door so you can retrieve them quickly without digging through the entire unit.
Fragile items like glass, electronics, and artwork need extra attention.
Tips:
Wrap items individually
Cushion with packing paper or bubble wrap
Store glass and mirrors upright, never flat
Keep electronics off the ground
Smart packing reduces the risk of damage and keeps everything protected long-term.
No matter how well you pack, the facility matters. A clean, secure, and well-maintained storage facility ensures your belongings stay safe, accessible, and in great condition.
If you live in or around Bloomington, IL, Storage Units of Dickinson offers modern units with excellent security and customer service. Their team can help you choose the right unit size and guide you through the best ways to organize your belongings.
Call them at (970) 867-0321 to check availability.
Maximizing space in your storage unit is all about being strategic. With the right packing approach—uniform boxes, vertical stacking, labeled containers, and space-saving organization—you can make any storage unit feel twice as big. Whether you're storing items short-term or long-term, an organized unit gives you peace of mind and easy access anytime you need it.
For secure, affordable, and well-maintained storage solutions in Bloomington, trust Storage Units of Dickinson. Their team is ready to help you get started. Call (701) 690-5512 today!