What is the best way to organize storage in a small base in ARK: Survival Evolved?

Organizing storage in a small base in ARK: Survival Evolved is crucial for efficient resource management and survival. A well-organized base allows you to quickly access materials, craft items, and defend your home. HereÔÇÖs a detailed guide on how to achieve this.

First, understand the mechanics of storage in ARK. Storage containers like storage boxes, preserving bins, refrigerators, and vaults each have unique functions. Storage boxes are basic containers for general items, while preserving bins slow down spoilage of perishable items like meat and berries. Refrigerators are more advanced and require electricity but are highly effective at preserving food. Vaults are large, durable containers with high storage capacity, ideal for valuable resources. Knowing these differences helps you decide which containers to use for specific items.

To start organizing, plan your base layout. In a small base, space is limited, so prioritize efficiency. Place storage containers near crafting stations like the smithy, fabricator, or cooking pot. This reduces the time spent moving between containers and workstations. For example, place a storage box near the smithy to store metal ingots, hide, and other crafting materials. Similarly, keep a preserving bin or refrigerator near the cooking pot for easy access to food items.

Next, categorize your resources. Group similar items together to make them easier to find. For example, store all building materials like wood, stone, and thatch in one storage box. Keep food items like meat, berries, and vegetables in a preserving bin or refrigerator. Place valuable resources like metal, crystal, and polymer in a vault for added security. Labeling containers can help, though ARK does not have a built-in labeling system, so you may need to remember which container holds what.

Resource requirements for storage depend on the type of container. Storage boxes require wood and thatch, while preserving bins need wood, fiber, and hide. Refrigerators require metal ingots, cementing paste, and electronics, making them more resource-intensive. Vaults require a significant amount of metal ingots and cementing paste, so they are best reserved for late-game storage. Prepare these materials in advance to avoid delays in setting up your storage system.

For solo players, organizing storage is straightforward since you only need to account for your own needs. However, in a tribe, communication is key. Assign specific containers to tribe members or designate roles for resource management. For example, one player could be responsible for gathering and storing building materials, while another handles food and medical supplies. This prevents confusion and ensures resources are used efficiently.

Common mistakes to avoid include overloading containers with unnecessary items. This makes it harder to find what you need and wastes valuable space. Regularly clean out your storage by discarding or using excess items. Another mistake is placing storage containers in vulnerable areas. If your base is raided, containers near the entrance are more likely to be looted. Place valuable items deeper inside your base or in vaults for added protection.

Advanced techniques include using vertical space. In a small base, stacking storage containers or placing them on upper floors can save space. Use ramps or ladders to access higher levels. Additionally, consider using small storage solutions like the mortar and pestle or the chemistry bench for specific items. These stations have built-in storage and can hold items like gunpowder or narcotics, freeing up space in your main containers.

Specific examples include setting up a crafting area with a smithy, fabricator, and storage box for metal and polymer. Nearby, place a preserving bin for cooked meat and a refrigerator for raw meat and berries. In a separate area, store building materials like wood, stone, and thatch in another storage box. For valuable resources, use a vault placed in a secure location.

In conclusion, organizing storage in a small base requires careful planning and efficient use of space. Categorize resources, place containers near crafting stations, and use advanced techniques like vertical stacking. Avoid common mistakes like overloading containers or placing them in vulnerable areas. Whether playing solo or in a tribe, proper storage organization is essential for survival and progression in ARK: Survival Evolved.