---
title: How to Pack a Storage Unit | Sparks Self Storage
url: https://sparksselfstoragellc.com/guides/how-to-pack-a-storage-unit/
business: Sparks Self Storage LLC
phone: (608) 412-4263
address: 35068 WI-27, Prairie du Chien, WI 53821
access: 24/7 access is available on request for an additional fee (ask when you rent)
---

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- How to pack a storage unit

# How to pack a storage unit

Plan a walkway down the middle, put the tallest and bulkiest pieces against the walls at the back, and stack boxes by weight with the heaviest at the bottom. Label every box on the side that faces the walkway, keep an inventory, cover furniture and mattresses, keep things off the floor, and never store food.

## Step by step

- ### Use uniform, labeled boxes Same-size boxes stack safely. Label each one with what's inside, on the side that will face the walkway [[1]](#src-h) .
- ### Keep an inventory A simple list of what's in the unit helps you find things later - and helps with an insurance claim [[1]](#src-h) .
- ### Plan a walkway Leave a path through the middle so you can reach things without unpacking the whole unit [[1]](#src-h) .
- ### Tallest and bulkiest to the walls Put furniture, mattresses and tall items along the walls and at the back, shorter things toward the door [[1]](#src-h) .
- ### Stack by weight and use shelves Heavy boxes on the bottom, light on top. Shelving makes use of the height without crushing anything.
- ### Cover furniture and mattresses Mattress bags, sofa covers and upholstery bags keep dust and moisture off [[1]](#src-h) . Wrap furniture in blankets or covers.
- ### Keep it off the floor, keep it dry Raise items off the floor, use airtight containers and moisture absorbers, and never store food - it draws pests.

## Packing a drive-up unit

Back your vehicle up to the door and load the back of the unit first, so the things you'll need soonest end up nearest the door. Need help choosing a size? See [what size storage unit do I need](https://sparksselfstoragellc.com/guides/what-size-storage-unit/).

## Sources

- [U-Haul Moving Insider - How to pack a self storage unit (Jan. 24, 2013)](https://www.uhaul.com/Blog/2013/01/24/how-to-pack-a-self-storage-unit) - walkway, uniform labeled boxes facing the walkway, inventory, covers for furniture and mattresses, tallest to shortest

Sources accessed October 19, 2026. Follow your owner's manual for your own vehicle, boat or equipment.

At Sparks Self Storage: 75 drive-up 10x20, 10x30 and 10x40 units on Highway 27 in Prairie du Chien, month-to-month, free disc lock with every new rental. [See the units](https://sparksselfstoragellc.com/storage-units/).

## More guides

- [What size storage unit do I need?](https://sparksselfstoragellc.com/guides/what-size-storage-unit/)
- [Wisconsin winter storage tips](https://sparksselfstoragellc.com/guides/wisconsin-winter-storage/)

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