People rent storage units for many reasons. They might need to store household goods during a home renovation or when moving from one house to another. Occasionally, families need to downsize an older relative to a smaller home, and they need more time to sort through all the possessions, so they place them into storage instead. Whatever the reasons, there will come a time when you want to save some money and let go of your stuff. So, we’ve put together a how-to guide on the best way to clear out your storage unit based on our extensive experience in home organizing, downsizing, and move management.

Depending on how much stuff is in your locker, it might take several days or weeks to sort, categorize, and decide what you will keep and let go of. So, it is essential to make a plan. If you have a small locker, one option is to transport a few items at a time to your home. Then, you can sort through them in a comfortable environment. But that can be time-consuming. Additionally, you may not have the space at your home to store things, especially if sets of items (e.g., dishes) are dispersed throughout several boxes.

Let’s assume you have a large locker full of stuff and cannot bring it to your home to sort and organize it. In that case, you’ll need to work at the facility to clear out your storage unit.

Plan Your Clear-Out Event

The first step is to meet with the self-storage staff before your event. The staff can provide valuable information about clearing out your storage unit. They will have policies and procedures about when and how you can work. For example, you might not be allowed to clear out your storage unit during busy times such as weekends or month-end.

Additionally, many facilities do not allow food or drink in the storage locker area because it attracts pests. Furthermore, the facility may not have washrooms you can use. So consider these points when you create a plan to clear out your storage unit. Locate the nearest shop where you can buy food and drink and find a place with a (clean) public washroom.

Next, consider how you will establish a work area at the facility. You will need space to unpack your boxes and spread out the contents. Some facilities will let you work in their hallways or driveways, but others might not because you could block access to other lockers. However, you may be able to temporarily rent an empty locker close by for a daily fee.

If your storage unit is outside, you must plan for the weather. And you’ll need to think about what to do if there is a sudden change in the weather. Portable canopies are great because they provide protection from the sun and the rain. You don’t have to worry about the elements if you’re indoors. However, the facility’s indoor temperature is regulated to conserve energy, not to make a comfortable working environment. Therefore, dress in layers as you will warm up and cool down, depending on how hard you’re working.

Finally, if you work with family members who live out of town, you must coordinate with them too. If you plan to connect virtually, ensure you have good cellphone reception around your storage locker. If you don’t, you may need to walk around the facility to find a spot to send and receive texts and images.

Gather Supplies

You should have the following supplies to have a successful storage unit clear-out day.

• Portable tables: Spreading smaller items on a table makes it easier to sort them and protects them from breakage. Also, it’s tiring for your knees and back if you must place everything on the floor or ground.
• Blankets or tarps: Placing blankets or tarps on the ground will protect furniture from dirt and scuffs. If you’re working outside, a water-resistant tarp can protect items from wind and rain.
• Extra lighting: Many storage lockers have no lights, and some only have one or two dim bulbs. A portable floodlight you can place on the floor or hang on a wall is ideal.
• Extension cords: There may not be an electrical outlet inside – or even close to – your storage unit. You’ll need extension cords to power your lighting, charge your phones, and test any appliances you find. A cord with multiple outlets rated for outdoor use is probably your best option. Remember, safety comes first! Reduce trip hazards by using brightly coloured duct tape to secure extension cords to the floor along the edge of the wall.
• Moving Supplies: The boxes in your storage locker may be in rough shape – especially after you unpack them. Also, you might need to pack items in separate packages if they go to different family members. See our list of packing supplies for details on what you should have on hand. Packing a variety of trash bags, such as black bags for garbage, blue bags for recycling, and clear bags for donations, would be best.
• Personal Protective Equipment: Storage lockers can be dirty and dusty. Ensure you have some essential safety equipment for everyone working, including safety glasses, dust masks, sturdy gloves and disposable gloves, and sanitizing hand wipes. Wear coveralls or durable, easy-to-wash clothing.

C.L.E.A.R. Your Storage Unit

We suggest you use the C.L.E.A.R. process to deal with the contents of your locker.

Categorize: Place items into logical categories. You might decide to separate them based on function (e.g., furniture, baby items, sports gear, etc.), or you could separate them by people (e.g., stuff for Cousin Kelly, stuff for Cousin Riley, etc.).

Limit: Decide on the amount of each item to keep so you don’t clutter your home. If you choose to keep stuff from your storage unit, you may need to let go of other things in your home to create space.

Evaluate: Understand the benefit and value that possessions have in your life. Keep your goal in mind when you are in doubt and struggling. Is it important to keep this item? Is it more emotional or useful? If you forgot it was in your storage locker, is it really that valuable to you?

Allocate: Arrange the items you decide to keep and allocate space for them. If you take your possessions to your house, ensure you’ve designated a place to store them. If you continue using your storage unit, install shelving and organize the items based on the frequency of access. Tip: Create an inventory and take pictures once you have organized your unit. It will be easier to find what you need.

Remove: Dispose of trash and recycling. Ship items to family and friends and list goods for sale as soon as possible. Schedule drop-offs or pick-ups with donation centres.

Arranging for Removals from a Storage Facility

Generally, storage facilities do not have garbage and recycle bins. It is up to the customer to arrange for disposal, whether trash or items for donation. Depending on the quantity, you could take the things in your own vehicle. However, if that is not possible, you’ll have to connect with a disposal company and a charitable agency for a donation pick-up.

You will likely have to book the pick-ups in advance because most companies do not do same-day collection. Also, they usually only do pick-ups earlier in the day because they need time to unload at the transfer station or charitable agency warehouse. So, be prepared to re-load your storage unit at the end of the day and return another day to meet with the removal companies.

Finally, consider getting help from Out of Chaos. Our team can help you clear out a storage unit effectively and efficiently. Contact us today to learn more.