Mobile storage tips: How to maximise space and efficiency 

Congratulations! You’ve decided to get a mobile storage box. Whether you’re downsizing, renovating, or just need a bit of extra space, a mobile storage box is a flexible and convenient choice. But now that you have your storage box, you may find yourself standing in front of it, wondering, “Where do I even start with packing this thing?” No stress! We’re here to guide you through the process with some practical and effective tips.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through smart packing techniques and organising hacks to help you get the most out of your mobile storage box.

Assessing your storage needs

The first key to successful packing is having a plan. Before you start stuffing items into the box, take a moment to assess what needs to be stored. Create a list of all the items you intend to pack, especially larger, bulky items like furniture. This will give you a clear picture of how much space you’ll need and what items should go in first.

Consider donating or selling items you no longer need. This step alone can free up considerable space. Always remember, the goal is to make the most out of the available space, so be ruthless in your selection.

Gather your packing supplies

Now that you’ve sorted your items, it’s time to gather the essential packing materials. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Sturdy boxes: Stick to medium-sized boxes, as they’re easier to stack and move.
• Packing tape: Ensure the boxes are securely taped to prevent damage or spills.
• Furniture covers: Protect larger items like sofas, mattresses, and tables from dust and moisture.
• Bubble wrap and packing paper: Use these for delicate or fragile items.
• Labels and markers: Clearly label each box with its contents, and if it’s fragile, mark that too.

Smartbox offers a variety of storage boxes and kits, including individual boxes like book & wine, picture carton, and portarobe, as well as bundled kits for studio, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and 3-bedroom moves, along with protective materials and essential packing tools.

Pack strategically

When it comes to packing, think of your storage box like a game of Tetris. Place heavier items at the bottom and lighter, more fragile items on top. Fill any gaps with smaller items or packing materials to prevent shifting during transport.

Roll up clothing and soft items to save space and use them to cushion fragile items. Disassemble larger items like furniture if possible, and store the parts together in clearly labelled boxes.

Stack smartly

One of the best ways to maximise space in a mobile storage box is to utilise vertical space effectively. Stack boxes and items as high as the box allows. Make sure the heaviest boxes are at the bottom and lighter ones on top to avoid crushing any contents.

If you have any furniture or large items, use them as a base layer and stack boxes on top. Just ensure everything is stable and unlikely to topple over during transport.

Use shelving units

Portable shelving units can be a game-changer for mobile storage. They help keep items organised and allow for easy access without having to unpack everything. 

Consider investing in lightweight, adjustable shelves that can fit inside your storage box. These can be particularly useful for storing smaller items or items you may need to access more frequently.

Vacuum-seal clothing and linens

Vacuum-sealing is an excellent way to save space, especially when it comes to bulky items like clothing, linens, and blankets. These vacuum bags compress the contents, reducing their volume significantly and making them easier to stack or fit into small spaces.

Additionally, vacuum-sealing protects your items from moisture, dust, and pests, keeping them in pristine condition while in storage.

Organising tips for maximum efficiency

Create an inventory list

Keeping track of what you’ve packed can save you a lot of time and hassle in the future. Create an inventory list as you pack, noting down the contents of each box. 

You can even take photos of the items before sealing the box to have a visual reference. Store a copy of this inventory both digitally and physically for easy access.

Label everything clearly

As you pack each box, label it clearly with its contents and the room it belongs to. This will make unpacking much easier when it’s time to retrieve your belongings. If you have fragile items, be sure to mark the box as “FRAGILE” in bold letters.

You can even create a master list of all the items in the box and their exact location. While this may seem tedious, it can save you a lot of time and effort down the line if you need to retrieve a specific item quickly.

Leave an access path

Think about how often you might need to access certain items and pack accordingly. Items you are unlikely to need should go at the back or bottom of the mobile storage box, while items you might need sooner should be placed at the front or top.

If possible, leave a small pathway between boxes so you can walk in and access the things you need.

Protecting your belongings

Use protective materials

To keep your items safe during transport and storage, use plenty of protective materials. Bubble wrap, packing paper, and foam peanuts are all excellent choices. 

Wrap fragile items individually and ensure they are snugly packed to prevent movement. Use blankets, towels, or clothing to fill any empty spaces and provide extra cushioning.

Consider climate control

If you are storing items that are sensitive to temperature or humidity changes, consider opting for climate-controlled storage. This is particularly important for items like electronics, wooden furniture, or important documents.

Climate-controlled options maintain a consistent environment, protecting your belongings from extreme temperatures, moisture, and potential damage.

Maintenance and upkeep

Regularly check on your items

Even though your items are in storage, it’s a good idea to check on them periodically, especially if you’ll be storing them for an extended period. Keep an eye out for any signs of damage, moisture, or pests, and address any issues immediately.

Regular checks can help you catch potential problems early and ensure your items remain in good condition.

Rotate seasonal items

If you’re using your storage box for seasonal items, make sure to rotate them as needed. For example, you might swap out winter clothing and decor for summer items. 

By keeping your storage box updated with the items you need for the current season, you can maximise its usefulness and keep your home clutter-free.

Keep it organised

Finally, try to maintain an organised system within your storage box. Avoid tossing items in carelessly and take the time to repack boxes neatly after accessing them. 

A little effort in keeping things organised will pay off in the long run, making it easier to find items and ensuring you make the most of your mobile storage space.

Using a mobile storage box is a smart and convenient way to manage your belongings during a move or a long-term storage project. By packing efficiently and making the most of the space, you’ll keep all your items safe and sound, while getting the best out of your Smartbox.

Ready to get started? Smartbox provides easy, flexible storage solutions delivered secure units directly to your doorstep in Melbourne or Sydney. Whether you’re moving, renovating, or just need some extra storage space, we’ve got you covered. To find out more, visit Smartbox or contact us to discuss your storage needs.