I posted the below on here a few years ago but I still use the same organization system and recommend it. Worked well for me when I was in an apartment as well.
You need three things: clear bins, a shelf and a spreadsheet/word document (I use excel). I use two different size sterilite containers: 16qt and 54qt (I think) with snap lids. I label each one with a typed number and high-level category (i.e. Sleep System) in a larger font and bolded. Then, I will put bullet points in smaller font of what exactly is contained in the container (i.e. Sleeping bag, sleeping pad, tent + stakes, etc). The number, category and sub-categories make it simple to index your gear list in excel for future reference/revision. I decided not put the specific item as a bullet point on the labels because I did not want to change it every time I swapped gear, although the indexed spreadsheet is more descriptive and specific. For my “Baselayer” bin (or anything that is generic/have multiples of) I will label it as follows: Merino LS top (Grey) x2, Merino hoodie (brown) x2, etc. I like the clear bins because you can see what is in them and they are stackable. I would recommend committing to a single brand and fewer sizes so they can stack together more easily. I’d rather have multiple boxes for a category (and be more specific in my labeling) than a hodge-podge of container sizes that become a puzzle when you pull one out. The containers also make it easy to chuck gear in your vehicle when it is go time. All this is stored on cheap shelving from Ikea.
Specific examples of bin labeling:
1. Sleep System (bolded and large font size)
- Tent, poles & Stakes
- Tyvek
- Compression sack
- Sleeping pad
- Pillow
Excel will describe the specific product and include more detail. I will also label sub bullets so that it represents an index (1.1, 1.2, 1.3, etc). Will also include item description/best uses for gear and weight in separate columns. Mine is modeled after the Outdoorsman gear list
The only drawback is that this system requires you be be diligent after a trip when you are putting gear away. Quickly tossing gear in a random bin defeats the purpose but is easy to do. Hope this helps.