How to Read a Storage Unit in 60 Seconds

Storage auctions move fast. You usually get one look from the doorway and then it's bidding time. Here's how I turn that 60-second look into a profit estimate.

Look for the boring boxes first

Flashy furniture gets people excited. Sealed, labeled, uniform boxes get me excited — they signal an organized owner, and organized owners keep things worth keeping.

The four signals I scan for

• Quality of packing — bubble wrap and labeled bins beat loose trash bags.
• Appliance age — newer = resale value.
• Hobby clues — tools, sewing, collectibles all flip well.
• Depth — what's stacked behind the front row?

Want the full system for sourcing anywhere? It's in The Reseller's Sourcing Playbook.