How should you label boxes, bins, and bags for self-storage? Take a look at the dos and don'ts of labeling everything you need to store.
Do Use Permanent Markers
Washable markers are ideal for your creative kid's art activities. But these writing tools run easily when wet. A rainy move-in day, increased humidity, or another moisture issue can wash this type of marker's lines away. Instead of washables, choose permanent markers for your for-storage labels.
Don't Reuse All Labels
While it might seem like a cost-saving, eco-friendly strategy to re-purpose this type of packing supply, reused labels can fall off boxes, bins, and bags. Without enough adhesive left on the back, the label won't stick properly—that is, without extra help. If you want to upcycle old labels, you'll need to glue or tape them onto the container.
Do Use Different Colors
Instead of the same marker for every container, use a rainbow of hues. Create a color-coding system to organize your for-storage items. Choose one color for each type of item, room in your home, or another category. Write the contents (inside the container) on the label with the chosen color marker. Repeat this step for each box, bin, or bag from the same room or category.
Don't Create Your Own Shorthand
A shorthand type of system may make sense to you. But if someone else will move anything out of storage, they may not understand what your abbreviations or symbols mean. Use full words or descriptions for all storage labels. If you're not sure whether your labels are easy to interpret, ask a friend or family member to read them before you place your containers in storage.
Do Place the Labels Strategically
A label on the top of a box that you'll stack under other items won't help to organize your self-storage unit. If you plan to stack bins vertically (on top of each other), place the labels on the sides of the containers. But if you'll line up the bins next to one another, you might want to put the labels on the containers' tops.
Don't Skimp on Size
Can you see the label easily? A small sized product, such as a return address label, isn't the best option for a storage type of situation. Select a label that's large enough to see clearly from a distance. This could include a name sticker or a package-sized label. You can also fold a piece of construction paper or card stock in half and tape it to the side of the container.
If you need additional tips, reach out to a local self-storage facility.
Share
