I started by going through things and being sure of what I needed to keep vs. what I could toss, and then I rented a storage unit.

Two remodels. Moved things from one room to another, covered things.

Third remodel: tried to donate items:no go during SIP...dumpster.

This is rhetorical: what are you storing and why?

@Jim Mat Holiday decorations, winter/summer clothes, luggage and junk we need to get rid.

I will definitely be donating and may have to live with some items in the main areas of the house

Lots of people have junk in the basement and this is the best time to sort it out what needed and not and get rid of it.

Most people with lots of stuff that they want to get rid of, ask to get a dumpster a size bigger (depending how much stuff is going in), and put it in the driveway a week earlier so they can clean it up.

If lots of clothes in question, they get a few rolling garment racks that come covered, and if not they can be easily covered and moved out of the way when needed.

In addition, when finishing a basement there is always an area that will remain unfinished, customers will move what worth keeping into that space and cover with plastic.

Good luck with your renovation.

There are companies that will come and haul away your junk. And, as you say, you have things to donate... Check out your local ordinances about renting a Pod for storing the things you want to keep and placing it on your property until your project is done. Our community allows temporary placement of Pods in homeowners’ driveways until a project is done (within a reasonable period of time). That way, if necessary, you can have access to your possessions close by. Good luck!