Renting out a storage unit can be a great way to free up clutter in your own living space without having to part with any of your belongings. However, storage unit rentals can be costly--so you don't want to end up with more space than you realistically need. At the same time, you don't want to deal with the hassle of running out of space, either.

By following just a few tips and tricks, you can make the most of the space in your storage unit while still being able to easily access anything you may need.

Create a Walkway

Having your things in storage doesn't do much good if you can't actually get to things when you need them. Unfortunately, this is a common issue with storage units. The people who rent them don't put much thought into what goes where or how they'll get it out if they need it. The best way to improve accessibility while still utilizing the space wisely is to leave a small "aisle" down the center of the storage space itself. This will allow you to access items along the sides and towards the back of the unit. It can also be helpful to create a basic diagram of your storage unit so you can label what's been put where.

Utilize Vertical Space

When square footage is limited, you can optimize space by taking advantage of vertical space. This can be done by stacking items (just be sure to keep heavier items on the bottom and work your way up with gradually lighter items) or by using vertical shelving. More than likely, you won't be permitted to install or mount any shelves to the walls of your storage unit, but you can pick up a freestanding shelf unit to easily save space while keeping things organized.

Take Apart Furniture Items

While it may not make sense to take apart every piece of furniture before you put into storage, taking apart some parts of some items may make sense. For example, removing the legs from a dining room table can really help to minimize the footprint and make storage easier. Just be sure to keep all hardware and parts labeled and close by so you can reassemble as needed.

A little foresight and planning can go a long way when it comes to maximizing storage space, so be sure to keep these tips in mind. Contact a company like Stadium Storage for more help.