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How to Create an Inventory List for Your Storage Unit

Lockaway Storage | February 7, 2025 @ 12:00 AM

When renting a storage unit, staying organized is critical if you want to manage your belongings efficiently. Making and keeping an inventory sheet for your storage unit is one of the best ways to stay organized when you store. Having a well-prepared inventory will not only save you time, but also provide you peace of mind.

To get the most out of your storage space, let's learn how to create an inventory list for your storage unit.

Visit Your Storage Unit to Plan Your Space

Knowing the dimensions and design of your storage unit is the first step in creating an inventory list. Visit your storage facility to inspect your unit before packing and marking your things. When you have a clear visual of your unit, and you're able to see how big it is and how much it'll fit, you'll get a better idea of how your stored items and boxes will fit together.

Upgrade to a larger storage unit if you realize that your present one isn't big enough to hold all of your possessions. Lockaway Storage - 1st Street has a range of unit sizes available, and our helpful staff can help you make the switch, making your relocation easy and stress-free. With flexible month-to-month contracts, you can easily change your storage solution as your needs change.

Categorize and Organize

As you're packing up your possessions for storage, sort them into logical groups. Think about the kinds of things you're storing: clothes, furniture, seasonal decorations, heirlooms, electronics, or books. It will be easy to create an inventory list if you group related items together, and this will also make it easier to retrieve your things later.

For example, you may arrange furniture in your unit based on which room it belongs in, and put all clothing into one box. By keeping similar objects together, you'll cut down on the time wasted searching through all of your boxes to find what you're looking for. To help you organize effectively, our storage facilities also provide a range of packaging materials, such as durable boxes, bubble wrap, and labels.

Label Everything Clearly

Labeling is essential once you've packed your belongings. Each box's label should concisely describe its contents. For instance, write "Box 1—Winter Clothes" on the label, rather than just "Box 1." It'll be easier to refer to your inventory later if you put more information on each label and its corresponding place in your inventory list.

You can also assign numbers to your boxes, which you can then use when you create your inventory list. If you have a spreadsheet, for example, include an entry for "Box 1" that provides a thorough description of its contents. Arrange labeled boxes in your unit strategically: if you're going to use something more often, place it closer to the front, and seasonal or rarely-used items can be tucked away in the back. To make sure that your boxes are always within easy reach, arrange bulky things and furniture along the unit's perimeter so you don't have to navigate around them while getting to other things in your unit.

Create a Digital Inventory List

Although handwritten lists are useful, a digital inventory is more flexible and can make it easier to find things in your unit. To keep track of everything in your storage unit, make a spreadsheet or use your smartphone's note-taking function. For each item, add its description, condition, and box number, among other important facts. Think about including photos in your inventory as visual documentation if you're keeping fragile or valuable things.

Digital inventories also make it easier to update your list at any time; you can change the list the moment that you add or remove items from your storage unit. If you keep your inventory up-to-date, you'll always know what's in your unit and exactly where each item can be found.

Update Your Inventory Regularly

Creating an inventory list isn't a one-time event, but is instead an ongoing process. Get in the habit of updating your list each time you visit your unit to add or remove items. By doing this step, you can avoid future confusion and make sure your inventory remains accurate.

Lockaway Storage makes it simple to move to a larger storage unit if your inventory outgrows the space in your current unit. The staff at our Aurora, CO storage facility can help you change your lease to accommodate your storage needs.

Keep a Copy of Your Inventory in the Unit

It's a good idea to have a copy of your inventory list that stays in your storage unit. You can attach a printed copy to the inside of your unit's door in a protective plastic sleeve. This way, even if you forget your digital list at home, you can quickly view and use your inventory when you visit.

Why Choose Lockaway Storage in Loveland, CO?

Lockaway Storage - 1st Street is a neighborhood favorite and trusted storage solution for residents and businesses in Loveland. It's the ideal option for anyone looking to keep their things in a secure location – with a range of unit sizes, flexible access hours, and clean, well-maintained units, our facility has everything you need to start your self storage journey.

One of the best ways to maintain organization and get the most out of your storage unit is to create an inventory list of the unit's contents. Although it's an extra step to do things like labeling boxes, creating a list, and taking photos of your storage unit's contents, these actions will ultimately save you time and effort while storing. Lockaway Storage has the space and services to accommodate your needs, whether you're keeping a few boxes or the belongings of a full home. To find your perfect storage solution, take a look at our facility online or pay us a visit in Loveland, CO.

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Lockaway Storage
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