Whether you're moving, downsizing, remodeling, or simply decluttering your home, putting your belongings into storage can make life a lot easier.
But before you start loading your storage unit, a little preparation can go a long way.
Here are 10 tips to help you pack, protect, and organize your belongings so they're ready for storage.
Before you start packing, take a few minutes to think about what you're storing and how you'll want to access it later.
Are you storing everything for a few weeks while you move? Or will you be storing items for several months or even years?
Your answer may affect how you pack and organize your unit.
If you'll need to access certain items regularly, make sure they're easy to reach.
Before putting furniture, appliances, clothing, or other belongings into storage, make sure they're clean and completely dry.
Dirt and food residue can attract unwanted pests, while moisture trapped inside containers or on furniture can cause problems over time.
A little cleaning before storage can help protect your belongings while they're stored.
Whenever possible, use sturdy boxes or plastic storage containers.
Try to use similar-sized boxes so they're easier to stack safely.
Avoid overfilling boxes. Heavy boxes can be difficult to move and may become damaged if they're too heavy.
💡 Tip: Clearly label each box on multiple sides so you can quickly identify what's inside.
Furniture can take up a lot of space, so prepare it carefully before moving it into your storage unit.
Consider:
✅ Cleaning furniture before storing it
✅ Disassembling large pieces when possible
✅ Covering furniture with protective blankets or furniture covers
✅ Wrapping delicate items carefully
✅ Keeping hardware from disassembled furniture in labeled bags
If you take something apart, label the pieces and keep the hardware with it. You'll thank yourself later!
When you're standing in front of a storage unit filled with boxes, you don't want to guess what's inside every box.
Clearly label each box with a description of its contents.
For example:
Kitchen – Small Appliances
Christmas – Decorations
Bedroom – Winter Clothes
Office – Important Documents
You can also create a simple inventory list so you know exactly what you've stored.
For larger storage units or long-term storage, consider keeping a basic inventory of your belongings.
You don't need to list every single item. A simple list by box or category can be enough.
You might also take photos of valuable belongings before storing them.
An inventory can be especially helpful if you need to find something months later.
One of the biggest storage mistakes is putting everything you might need later at the very back of the unit.
Think about what you'll want to access first.
Place frequently needed items toward the front and items you won't need for a while toward the back.
You may also want to leave a small walkway through your unit so you can reach items without unloading everything.
Not every item needs the same type of storage.
If you're storing furniture, electronics, documents, photographs, antiques, or other temperature-sensitive belongings, consider climate controlled storage.
Climate controlled storage provides a more consistent environment and can be a good choice for belongings that may be affected by Iowa's hot summers, cold winters, and changing humidity. For more information on climate controlled storage check out this page: Rent Climate Control Storage in Eldridge IA : Eldridge Storage
If you're not sure which type of storage is right for your belongings, we're happy to help you decide.
Don't forget to secure your storage unit with a high-quality lock.
Your lock is an important part of protecting your belongings, so choose one designed for self-storage use.
And once you've locked your unit, keep your key somewhere safe!
If you do lose your key, contact us. We can explain the process for arranging a lock removal, but keep in mind that lock cut-off requests must be scheduled 3–5 business days in advance. Eldridge Storage: Lost Your Storage Unit Key in Eldridge, IA? Here’s What To Do
If you can, avoid packing your storage unit so tightly that you can't move around.
Leaving a little extra space makes it easier to access your belongings later.
It also makes moving items in and out much less frustrating.
Remember: the goal isn't just to fit everything inside your unit. The goal is to be able to find and access your belongings when you need them.
A little preparation can make your storage experience much easier.
By cleaning your belongings, using sturdy boxes, labeling everything, protecting your furniture, and organizing your unit thoughtfully, you'll save yourself time and frustration later.
Whether you're moving, remodeling, downsizing, or simply creating more space at home, Eldridge Storage offer convenient storage options to fit your needs.
We offer:
🔒 Secure gated access
📹 Security cameras
🚧 Fenced facilities
❄️ Climate controlled storage
🚪 Standard drive-up storage
💻 Convenient online reservations
📅 Flexible month-to-month rentals
Need help deciding what type or size of storage unit is right for you?
We're happy to help!
👉 Check availability and reserve your storage unit online today in Eldridge, Iowa.