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How to Organize a Storage Unit: 6 Tips to Get You Started

A man sits at a desk with his computer and creates a list to organize a storage unit at South Rock Storage

Are you considering renting a self-storage unit in Wichita, KS? If so, it's essential to be organized and plan to make the most of the space. Check out these six tips for getting started.

How to Organize Your Items in Self-Storage Units

1. Use shelves for boxes and other items.

Using shelves is a great way to organize your boxes, books, and other items you plan to use frequently. They're also helpful for keeping the floor clear of clutter and making it easier to move throughout your storage unit.

Although any shelving will technically work, we recommend sturdy shelving with a high weight limit to easily handle anything you place on it. When setting up your shelving unit, place heavy items near the bottom, fragile (or light) items at the top, and items that you frequently use on the middle shelves.

Next, make sure all your boxes are labeled. Being well organized helps you remember where everything is or even helps a friend if they're getting something from your unit on your behalf!

After this step, try to organize the items by category (clothing vs. tools vs. sports gear), so related items are grouped and easier to find.

2. Label everything with a list of the contents.

Labeling every box you put in your unit is essential, whether it's full or empty. People often misplace items in their storage units because they cannot remember which unit they put them in. Labeling your boxes will always know where your belongings are, and you won't have to waste time searching through multiple units.

Labeling is also an effective way to keep track of items after they have been moved into your home when you unpack them again after moving out of storage into your new place! It may seem overkill at first because there will only be a few things left in each box, but it just becomes second nature after a while.

3. Fold clothing and linens neatly to save on space.

Folding is the easiest way to save space in a self-storage unit. To fold clothes and linens, first lay them flat on a surface so that the long edges are parallel (this will create an "L" shape).

Fold the bottom third of your piece of clothing up toward where it meets at the top, then fold it in half along its length.

Finally, fold both sides inward toward one another until they meet at their respective middle points (like folding in half) and place them into your storage unit together with their seams facing outwards so that any dirt or dust won't get trapped inside when you open them later on!

4. Create a list of what is in each box so that you can easily find each item.

If you feel overwhelmed by the size of your storage unit, creating a list of what's in can be helpful. After all, one of the main reasons people use self-storage units is because they need extra space for their stuff! But if you don't know what's in the unit already, how will you know what else needs to go in?

Here are a few tips when creating a list:

  • Be as specific as possible. For example, if you have a box labeled "summer clothes," include a list of every item inside the box. This way, you will know precisely what is in the box and where to find it when you need it.
  • Include the box number, what is in the box, and where it is located.
  • Store the list with your other essential documents in a fireproof lockbox. This way, it will be protected from water damage and other disasters.
  • Keep adding new things to your list as you move more boxes into your storage unit. If something gets lost or forgotten, you will have a comprehensive list of contents for each box to find whatever needs finding quickly!

5. Store large items like bikes and furniture against the walls.

If you have larger items like bicycles or furniture, it's best to store them against the walls of your self-storage unit. This will free up space in the middle of the unit so that you can store other things, and it will also help to protect your belongings from getting damaged if someone accidentally bumps into them while walking around.

To maximize space, you can also disassemble furniture before storing it in the unit. For example, take the legs off a table or the mattress and box spring off a bed frame. Just make sure to label all the pieces, so you know how to put them back together later! Another tip is to keep the legs and machinery (screws) together by tape or in a clear plastic bag so that everything is there when you go to reassemble.

6. Use a floor plan.

Just like moving into an apartment or home, having a floor plan will help keep everything organized and tidy. You might want to consider making sure that everything has its place, especially if it's something large like furniture pieces or appliances (think washing machines). Consider putting the items you want to use the closest to the front and the longer-term storage items in the back. This will save time when looking for where something goes when needed again.

Creating a floor plan is easy! Take a measuring tape and measure out the dimensions of your storage unit. Then, use graph paper to draw out a scale model of the space. Finally, start placing your belongings in the unit according to the floor plan.

Final Thoughts

If you take time to organize before you move in, then it will be easy to find what you need when you need it later.

Self-storage units can be a great way to keep your belongings safe and sound while you're in between homes or even need extra space. That way, it will be accessible when you need to find something later! But before you start packing everything into boxes, it's essential to take some time to think about how you're going to organize everything.

Contact South Rock Storage today to learn more about our self-storage units in Wichita, Kansas! We have a variety of sizes and amenities to choose from so that you can find the perfect unit for your needs. Give us a call or stop by our facility today!

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Portrait of adult man moving boxes into South Rock Storage

How to Choose the Best Storage Unit Facility

There are many factors to consider when choosing a self storage facility. Here's how to find one that's right for you and your situation.

Whether you're downsizing your home or need a place to store extra belongings, finding the best self-storage facility in Wichita, KS, can be tricky. With so many options available, how do you know which one is right for you? Here are some tips to help you choose the proper storage unit facility for your needs. What Is a Self-Storage Facility? A self-storage facility is a popular option for people (or businesses) who need extra storage space. These facilities allow you to rent a unit for a set time, usually month-to-month. Self-storage units come in various sizes, so you can choose one that's just right for your needs. Also, most facilities offer climate-controlled units, which help to protect your belongings from the elements. Choosing a clean, well-lit, well-reviewed facility with security measures in place is essential. What Are the Different Types of Self-Storage Facilities? There are several different types of self-storage facilities, including: Mini storage These facilities typically have smaller units that are perfect for storing a few items. Mini storage units are often less expensive than other types of storage units. Full-service storage These facilities offer a wide range of storage options, making them perfect for storing a few items (like the contents of a bedroom) and more oversized items (like the contents of an entire home). Full-service storage facilities offer additional services, such as packing and moving assistance. Vehicle, RV, and Boat storage These facilities offer secure storage for your car, RV, or boat. Vehicle storage units are typically larger than other storage units and may be more expensive. Climate-controlled storage This type of facility offers temperature and humidity-controlled units, which helps protect your belongings from damage. Climate-controlled storage units are popular for storing electronics, furniture, and other items sensitive to the environment. The Benefits of Using a Self-Storage Facility There are several benefits to using a self-storage unit in Wichita, KS, including: Peace of mind Knowing that your belongings are stored safely and securely can give you peace of mind. Self-storage units are typically more secure than keeping your belongings in your home. Convenience Self-storage facilities are typically open 24 hours a day, making it convenient for you to access your belongings when needed. They're also usually located near major highways, making them easy to find. Flexibility Most self-storage facilities offer month-to-month leases, so you're not stuck with a long-term commitment. This gives you great flexibility as you store your belongings. What to Consider Before Choosing a Facility Now that you know what a self-storage facility is and the available different types, how do you choose the perfect one for your needs? Here are a few tips: Your needs What do you need to store? How much space do you need? Do you need climate control? Answering these questions will help you narrow down your options. You can also ask friends or family for recommendations. Price Once you know what you need, compare the prices of different self-storage facilities. The right self-storage facility can save you lots of money, so check out the offers and ask for a free quote before making your final decision. Self-storage facilities charge by the month, so be sure to factor that into your budget. However, some facilities do not disclose pricing information online, so contact them directly. Location When looking for a self-storage facility, finding one conveniently near you is essential. This will make it easy to access your belongings when you need them. Size When it comes to self-storage, size does matter. Renting a unit that is too small will not give you the storage space you need and could end up costing you more in the long run. The best scenario is that you have a large enough unit for all your items with a little extra space. Here are a few things to keep in mind when deciding on the size of your self-storage unit: How much stuff do you need to store? What type of stuff do you need to store? How often do you plan to access your belongings? If you are unsure which size unit is right for you, most self-storage facilities offer free consultations with staff members who can help you determine which size best suits your needs. Security You want to know they're secure when you're storing your belongings. Ensure the facility has adequate security measures, such as 24-hour surveillance and gated access. Reviews Once you've narrowed down your options, take the time to read reviews of each facility. This will help you get a better idea of each facility's quality. You can also ask the facility for references. Climate control feature Climate control is an important feature to consider when renting a storage unit in Wichita, KS. The feature helps to regulate the temperature and protect belongings from weather-related damage. Climate control is not as important in climates where it is warm year-round. However, climate control is a must-have feature in areas like Wichita, where temperature can change drastically. Customer service You should feel comfortable with the staff at your chosen facility. Be sure to ask about their policies and procedures to get a better idea of their customer service level. Choosing the best self-storage facility doesn't have to be complicated. By considering your needs and comparing prices, you can find the right storage unit facility for your belongings. And don't forget to read reviews and ask for references to get a better idea of the quality of the facility. Choose the Best Storage Unit Facility in Wichita If you're looking for the best storage unit facility, look no further than South Rock Storage. We've been in business since 2006, serving the diverse storage needs of our happy customers. Call us at 316-618-8282 or contact us through our online form.
Eight nutcrackers arranged together in front a Christmas tree

12 Storage Ideas to Maximize Your Space

Save money and maximize the space you have with these 12 brilliant self storage ideas. Make the most out of your unit while keeping costs low.

Self-storage can be a lifesaver when you're short on space. But did you know you can save even more money by following a few simple tips? Here are 12 self-storage ideas to help you make the most of your unit and keep costs low. How to Maximize Your Small Space 1. Declutter frequently. Decluttering is one of the best ways to help you keep control of your stuff. Try to eliminate things that haven't been used for six months, broken items, and things that don't make you happy anymore or take up space in your storage unit. Facebook Marketplace is an excellent resource for connecting with others who may be interested in your unwanted items. And since you can list items for sale at any time, it's a convenient way to declutter your home and make some extra cash. 2. Store seasonal items in a separate location. Seasonal items are a great candidate for a storage unit. Clothing, shoes, and accessories can easily be stored in your self-storage unit when you're not wearing them. Holiday decorations can also be stored in a separate space—just make sure it's somewhere that won't get too hot or humid! You don't want to ruin all your fun decorations by storing them in an area with poor ventilation. We highly recommend storing these items in a climate-controlled storage unit. Patio Furniture is another seasonal item that can be kept out of the way in a self-storage unit until you need it again. 3. Install furniture with built-in storage. There are several ways to maximize your space when it comes to furniture. For example, you can buy furniture with built-in storage. They have compartments that you can use for storing items or even a full-on drawer system. Plenty of online stores sell these types of pieces, so you can find something that suits your taste and requirements and the rest of your home decorating scheme. Another great idea is to buy furniture with multiple functions (i.e., it serves many purposes). For example, an ottoman could serve as an extra seat when needed but slide open to reveal an additional compartment where items can be stored securely inside. Another option would be buying a bench with drawers underneath for extra storage space; this will add some additional seating into the mix and give you somewhere safe to hide away all those random items floating around your house! 4. Invest in stackable furniture and closet organizers. Invest in stackable furniture. If you have a lot of stuff you'd like to store, but don't have the space for it, consider investing in some stackable furniture. These pieces are designed to be stacked on top of one another and can help save room by eliminating the need for additional shelves or drawers. Use closet organizers to keep things tidy. Another great way to maximize space is by getting creative with clothes hangers with closet organizers hanging from hooks on walls or rods within closets. Some even feature pockets where you can tuck your shoes away after using them, so they don't get in the way when hanging items from their hangers! 5. Add shelves or cabinets around the perimeter of your rooms. Here's a step-by-step guide to doing this: Measure the walls at their highest and lowest points, and then draw a triangle on the wall where your shelves will go. Cut along the lines, leaving enough room for all of your items (not too much space!). Install shelving according to instructions on its packaging, or consult with a professional if you're unsure how to do so safely before installation. Place items on shelves until they reach eye level from across most rooms—you want them hidden but still accessible! 6. Add under-bed storage bins. If your storage area has enough height, consider adding under-bed storage bins so you can store clothes, footwear, and linen. These are especially useful if you need to clear out some space during the off-season or when you're moving items around in preparation for a move. The benefit of these is that they're super easy to access—roll them out from underneath the bed frame. Clear plastic bins are best because they'll let light through and make it easier for you to see what's inside at a glance. Also, consider using them to store non-clothing items like toys or books that may have accumulated over time—you don't have room for all those things in your bedroom closet! 7. Buy or build a shoe rack or organizer. If you have a lot of shoes, consider building or buying a shoe rack or organizer. This can keep your shoes off the floor and in a visible location. Shoe racks are great for keeping shoes out of the way and in a protected environment. You can also store them in rooms that are temperature controlled, such as your basement or bedroom closet. Remember that moisture is not suitable for leather or suede material because it will rot over time. Therefore, avoid storing these types of shoes near any source of moisture (such as windows). 8. Make a space for your sports equipment outside. If you don't have room to store bikes or sports equipment inside, make a space for them outside. Keep your bike out of the rain. You can keep bicycles above ground level by hanging them on hooks (one every few feet) so they don't fall over. If you have a garage or carport, this is easy: hang the bike with its tires off the ground and leave it there until you need it again. Otherwise, place a cover over your bicycle when not in use to protect it from weather damage and dust accumulation. Lock up your bikes securely if possible—a chain, cable, or U-lock should work well. 9. Create a command center to organize mail, keys, and other small items. You may want to designate a specific area in your home for mail, keys, and other small items. A corkboard can be used for reminders and hooks for keys. A basket can be used for small items like pens, markers, or even more mail. Use a file box for bills and papers that need additional attention. Finally, use a small table or decorative box to house all the supplies needed to keep everything organized! 10. Find areas around your home for extra storage. If you have extra storage space above your door, you may want to consider adding shelves there. Stair risers are a great place to store books. You can also use the back of doors for hanging things, such as a shoe organizer or hangers. You can also find storage under the bed and behind cabinets if you're looking for more places to store items in your home. 11. Add dividers in deep drawers or cubby holes. You can also create dividers to help with organization in deep drawers. For example, if you have a drawer that is 10 inches deep but only contains two items, then it might be best to divide them into two sections. This way, one side can hold your scissors and tape dispenser, and the other can store pens, pencils, and other writing utensils. In addition to using shelving for storage solutions around the home (see #5), you may also want to consider getting some drawer organizers. These types of organizing systems come with dividers that keep contents organized while they sit in their designated space inside a cabinet or closet shelf. Some common uses include: Using shallow drawers as "junk drawers" where you place things like batteries that need easy access and aren't used often Use shallow drawers for things like silverware sets, so they don't get lost at the bottom of cabinets when stacked on top of each other. 12. Use self-storage for overflow items. If you have a lot of space at home but not enough money to get rid of it all at once, consider storing some valuables or furniture instead of throwing them out or donating them—you may be able to use them again someday! Self-storage is a great place to store those extra items you don't need around the house. Things like seasonal decorations, extra blankets, and electronic items you rarely use (like a VHS player) but want to keep can all be stored in self-storage while leaving room in your home for things you're using. If you're looking for places where you'll be able to access these things irregularly, consider renting a storage unit for a time that makes sense for your needs. For example: if there's an item that requires fairly frequent access (like camping gear), it probably isn't worth paying each month just so that it's available now and then. If you also have a hobby that requires storage space (like scrapbooking), consider using a self-storage unit to keep your materials organized and tidy. The benefits of renting a self-storage unit in Wichita, Kansas are as follows: You can declutter your home and free up space. You can keep your belongings safe and secure. You can have easy access to your things when you need them. It is a cost-effective way to store your items. Final Thoughts When it comes to organization, there are endless possibilities for tiny homes. With some creativity and elbow grease, you can turn your compact home into an organized oasis. Try out some tips above and see what works best for you! Contact South Rock Storage if you're looking for a reliable storage facility in Wichita, KS. We offer a variety of storage unit sizes to accommodate your needs—and we even have climate-controlled units available. Give us a call today or stop by our facility to learn more!
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Book your unit today!

If you are looking for an affordable storage facility with a clean atmosphere, top-notch security, and a friendly staff you've come to the right place.
FAQ

You have questions, we have answers.

When can I move in? 

If there is a storage space available that meets your specific storage needs you can move in anytime.

How much notice needs to be given before I move out? 

All contracts are month-to-month. However, we do require a 10 day notice before you move out.

What type of documentation do I need to provide in order to rent a space? 

We require a government issued photo ID (example: driver’s license, state ID, or passport)

How do I make a payment? 

VISA, MasterCard and Discover (credit / debit) are the preferred method of payment. We also accept checks or money orders.

Are there any items that I am not able to store? 

Liquids, explosives, flammable liquids, toxic materials and perishables. Please contact us if you have any questions regarding a specific item.

Does there have to be someone to let me through the security gates? 

No. At the time of signing you will be given your own security pass code that will allow you convenient access to your unit.

What forms of payment do you accept? 

For your convenience, we suggest signing up for automatic payments – using your valid credit card (VISA, Mastercard, or Discover) or debit card. There is no additional charge for this convenience and it avoids late fees. We also have a drop box for after hour payments.

Do I need to sign a long-term lease? 

No, we rent on a month-to-month basis unless the customer requests otherwise.

Do I need to bring my own lock? 

No. As part of the Move In process, a INSET lock is included with the small admin fee. This type of lock is nearly impossible to breach – and only you will have a key for it. In addition, you may double lock the door, if you prefer.

What are the office hours? 

Tuesday - Friday: 9AM – 5PM
Saturday: 9AM – 4PM
Monday, Sunday: CLOSED

We're conveniently located in Wichita, KS

8282 East Oak Knoll St.,
Wichita, KS 67207

Contact us

We're here to help you find the perfect unit.

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ready to assist you.

Office Hours
Monday: CLOSED
Tuesday: 9AM - 5PM
Wednesday: 9AM - 5PM
Thursday: 9AM - 5PM
Friday: 9AM - 5PM
Saturday: 9AM - 3PM
Sunday: CLOSED
We look forward to speaking with you!
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