Using your self-storage to its best advantage can save you time and make your storage unit much easier to use. so let us tell you how to use your space to ensure you’re getting best value. We’ve also got a couple of quick storage hacks that take minutes but could save you a bit of cash.

Organise your stored goods

To get maximum value from your storage unit, you’ll want to use the space in the most efficient way possible – for example, by storing smaller items inside large empty furniture like wardrobes or even fridges.

But there’s more to efficient use of your storage than cramming items into every space.

If there are stored goods that you’ll be using regularly, keep them near to the door so that you can pull them out without moving lots of other items.

Label containers so you know exactly where to find things – that way you can quickly locate whatever it is you came looking for.

For more ideas on using your self-storage unit to its best advantage, see our article.

Keep an accurate inventory of your stored possessions

Another top tip for keeping self-storage organised is to maintain an inventory. An inventory is basically a list of what you have stored. It will help you work out the value of your stored goods for insurance purposes. And it will let you easily keep track of what you have in your storage locker or cupboard. Some storage companies require you to share an inventory with them, too.

Your inventory can allow you to see immediately whether the value of your stored goods has changed substantially. Jot down the value of each item, and keep a running total. If you take something out and the value goes down, or if you or put more things into your storage room and the value goes up, this will affect your insurance premiums.

It's important to give an accurate total value to your self-storage insurer. Please keep us updated as to the value of your stored goods. If you overvalue your goods, you’ll be paying too much each month; but if you undervalue your stored goods, then in the event of a claim, you won’t get the full replacement value.

An inventory can be as simple as a paper list, or it can be as complex as a spreadsheet. Some storage companies even have an app to help you keep track of what you have stored. Learn more about making a self-storage inventory.

Review your self-storage once a year

To get maximum value from your self-storage, every so often you’ll want to review what you’re paying and the service you’re getting.

Shortly before your storage anniversary is a good time to do this. Get some quotes from other storage companies to see what they can offer you. Maybe a new self-storage centre has opened that has a more convenient location, or better facilities. Or perhaps you need a bigger or smaller space to store your goods. There’s no point paying for more space than you need – but also, keeping your possessions in a space that is too small is inconvenient and likely to leave you with damaged things.

Check you’re not overpaying for self-storage insurance

When you put your personal property in a self-storage unit, you will need to organise insurance. Self-storage insurance is a must for most reputable storage companies to ensure you can get replacement goods quickly and easily should the worst happen. But a self-storage insurance policy shouldn’t cost the earth. Check that you’re not overpaying to insure your stored goods by getting quotes from at least three providers. It takes minutes to get a self-storage quote from Store and Insure.