Using a self storage unit in Manchester is one of the best ways to create extra space at home or work, but even the best storage plan can go wrong with poor packing, rushed organisation, or simple oversights. To help you get the most out of your unit, here are the 10 most common storage mistakes people make, along with tips on how to avoid them.

1. Not Labelling Boxes

When you’re packing up boxes, it’s easy to assume you’ll remember what’s inside each one. A few months later though, everything starts to look identical, and finding one specific item can turn into a frustrating guessing game. Proper labelling is one of the simplest ways to stay organised from day one.

You can avoid this by:

• Writing clear labels on multiple sides of each box

• Using colour-coded stickers or tape for each category (e.g. kitchen, clothes, tools)

• Keeping an inventory list on your phone or in a notebook

A few extra minutes labelling now saves hours of frustration later.

2. Using Weak or Damaged Boxes

While reusing old cardboard boxes can feel like a good way to save money, they often buckle under pressure, split at the seams, or collapse when stacked. A few damaged boxes can cause bigger problems, including crushed items or messy, unstable piles. Investing in stronger boxes pays off in both safety and convenience.

This can be avoided by:

• Investing in sturdy moving boxes or strong plastic containers

• Avoiding boxes that have been used for food or liquids

• Not overpacking — always leave enough room to close boxes flat

Durable and sturdy storage boxes protect your belongings and make stacking safer. Storage Manchester offers free storage boxes in many different sizes to help you get started.

3. Forgetting to Clean Items Before Storing

Packing items straight into storage without cleaning them might not seem like a big deal, but it can lead to mould, odours, and stains over time. Even light dust or grease can attract moisture or cause fabric and metal damage. Cleaning everything before storage helps preserve your belongings for the long term.

Remember to:

• Clean and dry furniture, appliances, and clothes before packing

• Use a mild detergent and ensure everything is completely dry

• Add moisture absorbers or silica gel packs to boxes when storing long-term

Clean items remain fresh and damage-free during storage.

4. Storing Items Without Protection

Even in a safe and secure storage facility, dust and small debris can build up over time, especially when items are stored for months or years. Uncovered furniture or unwrapped items can become dull or scratched without you realising it. Using proper covers and protective materials keeps everything in top condition.

Avoid this by:

• Wrapping furniture in protective covers or dust sheets

• Using mattress bags, sofa covers, or bubble wrap for delicate items (Storage Manchester provides these items for free)

• Keeping electronics and small items in sealed boxes or containers

This prevents scratches, dust build-up, and unnecessary wear.

5. Ignoring Weight Distribution

A well-packed storage unit isn’t just about fitting everything in — it’s about doing it safely. When heavier boxes are stacked on top of lighter ones, items underneath can get crushed, and unbalanced piles can topple over. Taking a few minutes to think about how you distribute weight makes your unit safer and more efficient.

Having a storage plan can be helpful as well as:

• Placing the heaviest boxes at the bottom of each stack

• Distributing weight evenly across shelves or pallets

• Keeping fragile items on top or in separate sections

Proper stacking helps protect your belongings and makes your unit safer to move around in.

6. Forgetting About Access

When you’re filling your storage unit, it’s tempting to use every inch of space. But if you don’t leave room to move around, finding something later becomes a major task. Planning for access from the start makes a huge difference and saves you from pulling everything out when you need just one box.

It’s recommended to:

• Leave a small aisle or walkway down the centre

• Keep frequently used items near the front

• Store seasonal or rarely used items at the back

A simple layout plan makes it easy to reach what you need, whenever you need it.

If you need short-term access or flexibility, our 7 days a week storage access makes visiting your unit simple and convenient.

7. Not Using Vertical Space

Floor space fills up quickly in a storage unit, but most people forget to take advantage of the height available. Stacking safely and using shelving helps you store more without upgrading to a bigger unit. It also keeps your belongings easier to see and access.

To combat this:

• Use shelving units or stackable boxes

• Place lighter items higher up

• Make sure everything is stable and secure

Using vertical space keeps your unit organised and reduces costs by allowing you to rent a smaller size. Explore our storage sizes guide to find the best fit for your needs.

8. Storing Prohibited Items

Every storage company has a list of prohibited items for safety and legal reasons. It might seem harmless to store things like paint, gas canisters, or food, but these can cause serious issues such as leaks, pests, or even fire hazards. Always check before storing anything questionable.

Avoid it by:

• Checking with your storage provider before moving items in

• Leaving out anything that’s hazardous, alive, or illegal

• Reading your storage agreement and FAQs for the full list of restricted items

Following the rules keeps your belongings safe and ensures your insurance remains valid.

9. Skipping Insurance

Even the most secure facilities can’t protect against every possible risk, such as floods, fire, or theft. Having insurance for your stored belongings gives you peace of mind and financial protection if something unexpected happens. It’s a small investment that makes a big difference.

• Check if your home insurance covers stored items

• Take out specialist self storage insurance if needed

• Keep a record of what you’ve stored, including photos and receipts

It’s a small cost that protects you from unexpected events.

10. Not Planning Ahead

The biggest mistake people make with self storage is rushing. Throwing everything into boxes at the last minute leads to poor organisation, wasted space, and damaged items. A well-thought-out plan helps you store smarter and makes the whole experience much smoother.

Here’s how you can avoid this mistake:

• Take time to plan what you’ll store and how you’ll arrange it

• Measure your unit and larger furniture before moving day

• Pack one room at a time so you stay organised

A little planning goes a long way toward making your storage experience smooth and stress-free.

If you’re planning a move, our removals and storage service can help handle both parts of the process safely and efficiently.

Avoiding these common mistakes will help you maintain a tidy, safe, and easily manageable storage unit. At Storage Manchester, we’re committed to making storage as simple as possible, with clean, secure, and affordable units available throughout the city.

If you’re ready to make more space, get in touch with our team today and find the perfect storage unit for your needs. You can also check out our latest storage prices and offers including 50% off your first 9 weeks.