Upright Freezer Organization Hacks

Keeping your stand-up freezer organized can feel like trying to solve a puzzle where the pieces keep multiplying. 

But trust me, once you get it sorted, it’s like finding hidden treasure every time you open that door. 

Not to mention, it saves you time, money, and keeps your meat fresh and tasty. 

So, let’s dive into how you can get that freezer in tip-top shape!

Have a chest freezer? Click here for tips on organizing.

1. Size Up Your Freezer Space

First things first, take a good look at your freezer. Get a feel for the space—measure it if you’re the precise type, or just eyeball it if that’s more your style. 

Think about the different types of meat you’re storing. Are you loaded up on our beef, pork, or maybe some of our chicken? Start categorizing in your mind. 

Then, look at those shelves and consider how you want to lay things out. Maybe dedicate a shelf for beef, another for pork, and so on. This way, you know exactly where to reach when you’re hunting for dinner.

2. Bring in the Bins and Labels

Bins are your best friend here. Grab a few sturdy, stackable bins to help separate different cuts or types of meat. If you’ve got a good labeling system, you’re already winning. 

Make sure every bin and every package of meat is clearly labeled with what it is and when it went into the freezer. 

Trust me, there’s nothing worse than playing “guess the meat” when you’re in a hurry.

An even better hack: To save money and recycle, all those Amazon, baby wipe and diaper boxes make for great bins as well!

Check out these photos for inspo.

3. Master the FIFO System

FIFO stands for “First In, First Out,” and it’s the golden rule of freezer organization. 

The idea is simple: put the newest meat at the back and the oldest at the front. That way, you’re always using up the oldest stuff first, which means less waste and fresher meals. 

Make it a habit to rotate your stock every time you add something new. It’s a small effort that pays off big time.

4. Seal It Tight

If you haven’t invested in a vacuum sealer yet, now might be the time. Even though all of our meat comes vacuum sealed already, it is a good idea to invest in a good vacuum sealer for your meal prepping adventures.

Vacuum sealing your meat helps prevent freezer burn and saves space. Plus, it keeps everything nice and tidy. 

For smaller portions, butcher paper or freezer bags work just fine, especially if you squeeze out as much air as possible. And don’t forget to label those packages!

5. Organize by How Often You Use It

Think about the meat you use most often and keep it at eye level or in the easiest-to-reach spots. 

This could be your ground beef for weeknight tacos or chicken breasts for quick dinners. 

The special cuts—like a rack of ribs or that brisket you’re saving for a weekend BBQ—can go in less accessible spots. That way, you’re not digging around every time you need to whip up a meal.

6. Keep an Inventory

It might sound like overkill, but keeping an inventory of what’s in your freezer is a game-changer. 

You can go digital with an app or keep it simple with a pen and paper list taped to the freezer door (this is what we do). 

Check it regularly to see what you’ve got on hand and what needs to be used soon. It’s also handy when you’re planning meals or making a grocery list.

Click here to get my FREE and simple inventory sheet.

7. Adjust for the Seasons

As the seasons change, so should your freezer contents. 

In the fall, you might stock up on more hearty meats like our pork and beef. 

During the summer, you might lean more towards lighter cuts or grilling favorites like our chicken or even rabbit.

If you invest in our bulk meat shares, make sure you’ve got a plan to store everything efficiently without overcrowding the freezer.

8. Wrap It Up

A well-organized freezer is your secret weapon for quick, delicious meals and reducing waste. Start small, maybe with just one shelf, and build up from there.

Before you know it, you’ll have a freezer that’s working for you, not against you.

If you’re looking to stock up, don’t forget to check out our bulk meat shares—we’ve got everything you need to keep that freezer full and your meals flavorful.

Click here for our available bulk meat shares.