Your go-to guide for making the most of your self-storage unit in Penn Hills, PA

Whether you're relocating across town, downsizing to a smaller home, or simply decluttering your life, a self-storage unit can be your best friend during the transition. At Atlas Self Storage in Penn Hills, PA, we know how overwhelming a move can be — that’s why we’ve put together 10 smart storage tips to help you stay organized and stress-free.

1. Declutter Before You Pack

Before you even think about packing, go through your belongings and donate, sell, or toss anything you don’t truly need. The less you have to move or store, the easier (and cheaper!) your move will be.

2. Label Everything Clearly

Use bold markers and label all four sides of each box. Be specific — “Kitchen: Pots & Pans” is better than just “Kitchen.” Consider color-coded tape for each room to make retrieval a breeze.

3. Use Uniform Box Sizes

Choose a few consistent box sizes to make stacking easier. Uniformity = stability. Avoid oversized boxes that may collapse or be hard to lift.

4. Create an Inventory List

Keep a written or digital inventory of everything you're storing. This helps you track what’s inside without needing to dig through boxes — and it’s perfect for insurance documentation.

5. Disassemble Furniture When Possible

Take apart bed frames, tables, and large furniture items to save space. Store screws and hardware in labeled zip-lock bags taped to the item itself.

6. Use Clear Bins for Essentials

Transparent storage bins make it easy to spot important items quickly, like tools, cleaning supplies, or seasonal clothing. Keep these near the front of your unit.

7. Leave an Aisle for Access

Don’t stack wall-to-wall! Leave a walkway down the middle of your unit so you can access things in the back without tearing apart your setup.

8. Store Vertically

Take advantage of vertical space by stacking boxes high and standing items like mattresses, dressers, and couches on their ends (safely, of course).

9. Protect Fragile Items

Wrap breakables in bubble wrap, blankets, or packing paper. Label these boxes as “Fragile” and place them on top — never at the bottom of a stack.

10. Choose a Climate-Controlled Unit (If Needed)

Western PA weather can be unpredictable. If you're storing electronics, documents, wood furniture, or family heirlooms, ask Atlas Self Storage about our climate-controlled options to protect your valuables from humidity and temperature extremes.

Final Thought: Make Your Move Easier with Atlas Self Storage

At Atlas Self Storage in Penn Hills, we’re more than just a storage facility — we’re your neighbor and partner in transition. Whether you need short-term space during a move or long-term solutions for downsizing, our secure, clean, and conveniently located units are here to help.

👉 Need help choosing the right unit? Give us a call or stop by — our friendly staff is always ready to help.