How should I lay out my container so I can easily reach what I need?

A little planning on day one saves a lot of digging later. Here is how our customers at Sunshine Self Storage set up their containers.

Back to front: put the things you rarely need at the back, like seasonal gear, archive boxes and spare furniture. Put the things you use most near the doors, like everyday tools, fast-moving stock and the boxes you will want soon.

Keep a path: if you can, leave a narrow walkway down the middle or along one side, so you can reach the back without unloading everything.

Stack high: a 20ft container is 2.39m high inside, so use the height. Heaviest items on the bottom, lightest on top. Stack boxes squarely so they don't topple. Freestanding shelving works well, as long as it isn't fixed to the container.

Label and map: label each box on more than one side. Draw a simple map of the container and stick it on the wall, then keep a copy at home. Keep a written list as you pack.

Let air move: leave a small gap between your goods and the walls, and keep goods off the floor on pallets.

Use the space inside things: fridges, wardrobes and drawers can hold linen, books and small items.

Access is 5am to 9pm, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, with drive-up access. Sunshine Self Storage is located in Albion. Call us 03 9010 6147.