What should I write on a storage box label?

A number and what's inside. The label maker prints both, with lines underneath to list the contents. Add "Kept in" under More and the storage unit or shelf prints too.

Why number storage boxes?

Because two years from now you won't remember which box has the camping stove. A number on every box and one list of what's in each number means you open one box, not ten. Keep the list in Stow Haven or on paper.

Do these work on plastic bins?

Yes. Stick a label on the bin, or print on plain paper and slide the label inside a clear bin, facing out.

Can I print more labels later and keep the numbers going?

Yes. After you print, choose "Start the next batch". The numbers carry on, so box 13 follows box 12.

What happens when someone scans the QR code?

A phone's camera opens a short page that explains the label. It never shows what's inside. In the Stow Haven app, you link each label to one of your boxes, so the code belongs to that box in your inventory.

Are these labels free?

Yes. There's no sign-up and no email, and the whole tool runs in your browser. Print as many as you like.

Free Printable Storage Box Labels with QR Codes

How to label storage boxes so you can find things later

A box can sit in storage for years before anyone opens it. Give it the clues you'll need once you've forgotten packing it.

Number every box. Keep one list of what's in each number, and "#12" on the box turns into "Christmas lights, tree stand, wreath hooks" on the list.
Say what's inside. "Winter clothes" or "Tax records 2019–2024" beats "Misc" every time.
Color by category or season. Holiday boxes in red and camping gear in green are easy to spot from the far end of the unit.
Label two sides. Tick Two labels per box and put one on top and one on the side that faces out, so you can read it when boxes are stacked.

Packing a storage unit

Turn every label toward the walkway.
Heavy boxes go on the bottom. Mark them Heavy under More.
Keep the boxes you'll want soonest by the door.
Leave a path to the back, so the far boxes aren't stuck there for good.

Link a label to a box in Stow Haven (free)

In Stow Haven, add a box and tick Link QR code after saving.
Scan the label you stuck on that box.
Snap a photo of what's inside and list the things you'll go looking for.

Already added the box? Open its menu and choose Scan / Link QR Code. The free plan covers up to 10 boxes.

Stow Haven keeps a photo of what's in each box, so box 12 comes with a picture of what's inside.

Start my inventory

Printing tips

Print at 100% (or "Actual size"), with "Fit to page" turned off.
Print a test page on plain paper first and hold it behind a label sheet against a window.
Keep shiny packing tape off the QR code. The glare can stop a phone from reading it.

All our free label makers

Moving box labels. For a home move: color-coded by room, numbered "Kitchen 3 of 8".
Storage box labels (this page). Numbered to match one list of what’s inside, for a storage unit, attic or garage.
Business labels. For an office move, business storage or organizing a supply room, with your company name on every label.

Questions

What should I write on a storage box label?: A number and what's inside. The label maker prints both, with lines underneath to list the contents. Add "Kept in" under More and the storage unit or shelf prints too.
Why number storage boxes?: Because two years from now you won't remember which box has the camping stove. A number on every box and one list of what's in each number means you open one box, not ten. Keep the list in Stow Haven or on paper.
Do these work on plastic bins?: Yes. Stick a label on the bin, or print on plain paper and slide the label inside a clear bin, facing out.
Can I print more labels later and keep the numbers going?: Yes. After you print, choose "Start the next batch". The numbers carry on, so box 13 follows box 12.
What happens when someone scans the QR code?: A phone's camera opens a short page that explains the label. It never shows what's inside. In the Stow Haven app, you link each label to one of your boxes, so the code belongs to that box in your inventory.
Are these labels free?: Yes. There's no sign-up and no email, and the whole tool runs in your browser. Print as many as you like.

Avery® is a trademark of Avery Products Corporation; these templates aren’t made or endorsed by Avery.