How to choose the right self storage containers

If you’re storing your things in a self storage unit for the first time, you may be wondering what’s best to use to store your items so that they don’t get damaged. But where does one start? Do you need cardboard, plastic, or perhaps metal bins?  

The self storage containers that you choose need to be the right containers for the things you want to store and will have a big impact on the longevity of your items. It’s important to use the right storage materials specifically designed for the item you want to store.

We take a look at the main types of storage containers that work best for different categories of items, as well as tips on how to store your things effectively. 

Types of storage containers

Plastic bins 

Bins are containers that come with a semi-opened end so that the users can very easily remove the inner contents without moving the bins from their position on a shelf. 

Plastic bins are great for storing seasonal items like decorations, clothing, and linen. Choose see-through bins to easily identify contents and label them by category. Make sure that you have a lid to seal the bins to keep out dust and pests.

Plastic bins are primarily of two different types. 

• Storage bins: Used for storing a wide range of small items that need to be kept separately. 

• Container bins: Ideally suited to store larger and bulkier items such as scrap metal, recyclables, and so on.  

Tote bins

Designed for heavy-duty use, totes are portable industrial storage products that can be collapsed to conserve space when they are not in use. Some totes come with hinged or removable tops to provide easy access.

These storage containers are available in a wide range of shapes and sizes to meet the varied storage requirements in the best possible way. 

Here are four common types of totes available:

• Bulk totes: Resistant to warping, rusting, and splintering.
• Insulated totes: These offer insulation and provide temperature control and protection. 
• Collapsible totes: Either vented or solid, they are often used in the material handling business. They are advantageous for their collapsible walls and when not in use, can be simply collapsed to save storage space.
• Hand-Held totes: Easily stackable and can help optimise storage space. 

Wardrobe/clothing boxes

These boxes are specifically designed for hanging clothing, with a hanging rod and often cedar lining to repel moths. They protect garments and prevent wrinkling, so when you retrieve your items they will be ready to go!

There are several specialty wardrobe boxes:

• Easy-up boxes: Easy-up or EZ wardrobe boxes require no tape for assembly, making them easier to set up. 
• Suit shippers: Depending on the size, these specialty boxes can hold 1–2, 3–5, or 6–8 suits.
• Eco-friendly boxes: These boxes are made from 100% recycled materials.
• Laydown wardrobe boxes: Laydown or flat wardrobe boxes do not have a hanging bar, but are wide enough to accommodate most hangers, which means you can transfer your clothes directly from your closet to the box.
• Narrow wardrobe boxes: Some wardrobe boxes have narrower dimensions to save space.

Breathable fabric bins 

Fabric bins and boxes are another excellent option for storing fabric. These containers offer a lightweight and breathable storage solution. They allow for airflow while storing items like shoes, stuffed animals, sporting goods, and camping gear to prevent any moisture build-up.

Acid-free document boxes

If you have important documents and files or old photos you want to store long-term, you can prevent them from degrading or getting damaged by choosing an acid-free archival box. 

Standard cardboard, PVC, and some other materials will eventually degrade and become acidic. So, to be genuinely archival, a box must be acid-free and stay acid-free.

Heavy-duty shelving

If you need a sturdy shelf to hold the weight of heavier items like books, appliances, and workshop tools (or you simply want to organise your storage unit), consider adding heavy-duty shelving. 

Properly packing your different items for self storage will protect your belongings for longer and help you make the most of your storage unit space. 

6 tips for choosing the right packing materials

Here are some tips for choosing the right packaging materials to keep items safe in self storage:

• Use strong boxes and bins 

Prioritise sturdy plastic storage boxes or heavy-duty cardboard moving boxes that can withstand stacking loads without denting or collapsing. Choose reinforced boxes.

• Pad delicate items 

Wrap fragile lamps, vases, and mirrors in premium bubble wrap to protect them. Don’t forget to write “fragile” on these items too!

• Waterproof when needed  

For outdoor gear, documents, and electronics, opt for water-resistant storage bins with rubber seals that keep moisture completely out. Rust prevention is key.

• Tape effectively

Use proper packing tape designed for shipping and storage rather than basic transparent household tape, which loses adhesion over time from temperature fluctuations. Fully seal all box edges and seams.

• Use desiccants

Put absorbent humidity-grabbing packets in bins storing metal machine parts, tools, or clothing prone to mustiness to keep contents dry continually.

• Anchor loose parts

Restrain things like folding chairs, broom handles, and coat racks together using sturdy plastic bands so pieces don't detach, puncture adjacent items, or get lost over the storage duration.

With the right containers for each type of item and the correct packaging process, you can stow possessions stress-free without worrying about your precious belongings getting damaged over time. 

Tips for packing 

• Label everything and keep an inventory list so you know where each item is stored

When storing collectables or antiques, protect them using blankets, bubble wrap, or special packing paper

• Keep heavy items at the bottom and lighter items at the top
• Don’t overfill boxes 
• Keep any loose items like screws, nuts, and bolts in a plastic bag or jar labelled 

Need packaging materials? Check out what packaging we offer at STORO. Call us today on 03 376 07 60.