The Do’s and Don’ts of Making Storage Work for You

Published: February 01, 2022

After a move, there can be so many things to do and if you’re going to be utilizing self storage during the process, then you’ve got even more work ahead of you. Here are some tips from UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Chicago on how to use a storage unit efficiently during a move:

Do keep moving supplies that you may need to use again. If you’re storing items for the future then the odds are good that moving boxes might make a reappearance. Put them in storage so you have them when you need them.

Don’t put anything in there that you really need right now. For example, don’t fill moving boxes with winter clothes when it’s winter. You’ll need all those cozy sweaters and jackets for the Chicago winter so store your clothes seasonally and place them in the front of the storage unit for easy access when the seasons change.

Do buy moving boxes based on what they’re made for. If you’re moving books, then get moving boxes made with moving books in mind. Also, don’t stack moving boxes more than three high – the weight of the top moving box can easily crush the boxes below them if stacked too high.

Do cushion furniture and fragile items with moving blankets. Moving blankets are made to protect your belongings from dents and scratches. If you use moving blankets as padding, then furniture will stay in better condition, especially if the units will be moved and the items jostled in transport.

Don’t store anything that could go bad. Don’t put food or other such items in storage – especially if they’re perishable. 

Do make sure all boxes and containers are labeled. This way, you can find what you need quickly and you won’t have to tear open boxes and dig through.

Don’t use moving boxes or moving supplies that are crushed or worn. Make sure moving supplies aren’t crinkled, ripped on the bottom, or otherwise damaged before you use them. A good rule of thumb for moving boxes is – if it looks like it has been used more than once, then it’s not safe to use.

Organizing can be a daunting task, but if you follow these steps and tips from the team at UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Chicago, you’ll know how to organize a storage unit in no time!

Moving to Chicago? Check out these local attractions

Chicago is a multicultural city that thrives on the harmony and diversity of its neighborhoods, the community and the values of America’s heartland – hard work and integrity. Also known as the “Windy City” Chicago has a strong and vibrant arts and culture scene offering museums, performing arts, music festivals and more. The city is home to five major sports teams, world-class restaurants and nightclubs as well as some of the best deep dish pizza around! Read on to see some of our favorite attractions in Chicago:

Lincoln Park Zoo

Founded in 1866, Lincoln Park Zoo is dedicated to connecting people with nature through a free, family-oriented wildlife experience. From the critically endangered eastern black rhinoceroses to the Jamaican iguanas, the specially designed exhibits house the nearly 200 unique species from around the world. Attend a special program like Seal Training, Ape Cognition and Care, the Penguin Encounter, the Lionel Train Adventure or ride the AT&T Endangered Species Carousel. 

Millennium Park

Situated in the larger Grant Park, Millennium Park is a center for art, music, architecture and landscape. The park is home to the Frank Gehgry-designed Jay Pritzker Pavilion, host to some of the city’s most attended events; the contemporary Lurie Garden; the interactive Crown Fountain; and the famous Cloud Gate sculpture. The park itself is technically a landscaped-covered bridge so it is considered the world’s largest rooftop garden!

Read on to find wrapping, packing, and moving supplies in the Chicago area to help you with your furniture moving process: 

The Home Depot

1232 W. North Ave.

Chicago, IL 60642

(773) 486-9200

Lowe’s Home Improvement

1360 N. Ashland Ave.

Chicago, IL 60622

(773) 269-2560

Gordon’s Ace Hardware Riverside

3145 S. Ashland Ave.

Chicago, IL 60608

(773) 523-8888