Whether you’re moving house, renovating, or just running out of space, a self storage unit in Ashton-under-Lyne can be a lifesaver. But how you pack it matters just as much as what you store in it.
A well-organised unit saves space, protects your belongings, and makes it easy to find things later. A poorly packed one wastes time, money, and effort. This guide covers practical steps to help you pack efficiently and make the most of every square foot.
1. Start with a Plan
Jumping straight into loading your van might feel productive, but a few minutes of planning can save you hours later. Think about which items you’ll need regular access to and which can stay at the back. A rough plan helps you keep your storage organised and makes retrieving things simple.
Ask yourself:
- Which items will I need most often?
- Which boxes or furniture can stay at the back?
- How much space do I really need?
Sketch a quick layout if it helps — even a simple plan on your phone can prevent headaches later. For more preparation advice, check out our storage information guide.
2. Choose the Right Size Unit
Packing efficiently starts with choosing the right-sized space. Too small, and you’ll struggle to fit everything in. Too big, and you’ll end up paying for space you don’t need. Choosing carefully helps you balance cost and convenience.
A quick guide:
- 25 sq ft – fits small furniture or around 40 boxes
- 50 sq ft – fits the contents of a 1-bed flat
- 75–100 sq ft – fits a 2–3-bed home
- 150+ sq ft – ideal for larger homes or business stock
If you’re unsure which unit size suits you best, our team can help you estimate the right option based on what you’re storing. Take a look at our storage prices for size comparisons and current deals.
3. Gather the Right Packing Materials
Good preparation makes all the difference when it comes to protecting your belongings. Investing in strong, high-quality materials prevents breakages and makes stacking easier.
You’ll need:
- Double-walled cardboard boxes or plastic crates
- Bubble wrap and packing paper
- Strong tape and a dispenser
- Marker pens and labels
- Dust sheets or furniture covers
- Pallets or shelving (optional but helpful)
Avoid using bin bags; they tear easily and trap moisture. You can collect free packing boxes from Storage Ashton to help you get started.
4. Pack Boxes the Right Way
Packing boxes properly keeps your items safe and your storage unit organised. Overfilled or uneven boxes can collapse, making your unit unstable and hard to manage.
Follow these rules:
- Place heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top
- Don’t overfill boxes — lids should close flat
- Fill gaps with paper or bubble wrap to prevent shifting
- Label every box clearly on multiple sides
- Group similar items together (e.g. kitchenware, tools, books)
- Keep box sizes consistent for easy stacking
These simple habits make unpacking smoother and protect your belongings for the long term.
5. Disassemble Large Items
Big furniture pieces like beds, wardrobes, and desks take up more space than necessary when left assembled. Taking them apart helps you maximise your unit and prevents accidental damage during storage.
Take apart:
- Beds and bed frames
- Tables and desks
- Shelving units and wardrobes
Keep screws and bolts in labelled bags and tape them to the corresponding furniture. This saves time when you reassemble later. If you need help moving larger items, ask about our free removals service.
6. Use Vertical Space
Most people focus on floor space, but the height of your unit is just as valuable. Using the full vertical area helps you fit more in while keeping things accessible.
Try:
- Stacking boxes with the heaviest at the bottom
- Using shelves or racking for lighter items
- Storing mattresses and sofas upright
- Hanging clothes on a garment rail instead of folding them
Smart vertical organisation allows you to rent a smaller unit without sacrificing storage space.
7. Protect Fragile and Valuable Items
Even in a safe and secure storage facility, fragile items can still be damaged if not packed correctly. Wrapping and padding delicate belongings helps avoid unnecessary breakages.
Protect them by:
- Wrapping glass and ceramics individually in bubble wrap
- Using padded blankets for furniture
- Avoid stacking anything on top of fragile boxes
- Keeping valuables like artwork or instruments off the floor
Store delicate items in the middle of your unit, where they’re less likely to get bumped or crushed.
8. Create an Access Path
Packing every inch of your unit may look tidy, but it often means you can’t reach anything without unpacking it all. Leaving a walkway makes it easier to find what you need quickly.
To stay organised:
- Leave a narrow aisle down the centre
- Keep frequently used items near the front
- Stack items in sections (e.g. kitchen boxes, furniture, business stock)
This small amount of planning makes your storage experience much more convenient. For businesses especially, creating an organised layout helps save time when accessing stock — learn more about our business storage options.
9. Keep Things Off the Floor
Even though our storage units are clean and dry, it’s still a good idea to lift items slightly off the ground. This improves airflow and adds an extra layer of protection against condensation or dust.
You can:
- Use wooden pallets or plastic sheeting under boxes
- Store furniture on rubber feet or blocks
- Avoid stacking boxes directly on concrete floors
Simple precautions like these help keep your belongings in great condition throughout their stay.
10. Double-Check What You’re Storing
Before you lock up, take a moment to make sure everything inside is suitable for storage. Storing restricted or damp items can cause issues over time and may breach your agreement.
Avoid storing:
- Perishable food or plants
- Flammable materials like paint or petrol
- Illegal or restricted items
- Anything wet or damp
For a full list of permitted and restricted items, visit our FAQs.
Conclusion
Packing a storage unit efficiently isn’t about cramming everything in — it’s about organisation, protection, and smart planning. By following these steps, you’ll:
- Use less space (and save money)
- Keep your items in excellent condition
- Find what you need when you need it
At Storage Ashton, we offer clean, secure, and affordable units for homes, students, and businesses across the area. Need help selecting the right size or materials? Our team can advise you and even provide free van hire to make moving day easier.
Contact us today to find the perfect storage solution and make the most of your space.
