Why layout precedes labelling
Before any tamper-evident sticker touches a device, we agree on compartment hierarchy: cabinet → shelf → pouch → item. Skipping this step produces maps that read well on paper but fail during a rushed retrieval.
Our compartment tiers
Tier 1 — Cabinet
Fire-rated safe, office cabinet, or designated drawer bank. Each receives a C-series code (C-01, C-02).
Tier 2 — Shelf or drawer
Within each cabinet, shelves are numbered top to bottom. Drawers use D-prefix codes when shelves do not apply.
Tier 3 — Pouch or envelope
Devices and backups sit in anti-static pouches or sealed envelopes. P-series codes distinguish empty pouches reserved for future backups.
Tier 4 — Item
W-series for wallet devices; B-series for backup media (metal plate, paper shard, USB backup where applicable).
Sample layout
| Code | Contents |
|---|---|
| C-01-S2 | Master bedroom fire cabinet, second shelf |
| C-01-S2-P1 | Pouch containing W-01 (Ledger Nano X) |
| C-01-S3-P2 | Pouch containing B-01 (metal seed plate, pair A) |
| C-02-D1 | Office desk safe, drawer 1 |
| C-02-D1-P1 | Pouch containing W-02 (Trezor Model T) |
Printed map format
Maps use a newspaper-style column layout: left column lists cabinets; right column lists items with cross-references. A legend explains codes without defining seed content. Two copies are standard — one with devices, one stored separately with location hints only.
Rehearsal integration
Every layout includes a rehearsal path: which item to retrieve first, where the secondary backup lives, and who in the household must be present for PIN entry. We document this as a numbered checklist, not a narrative paragraph.
Before your session
Gather all cabinets you want mapped. Unlock them in advance. Decide whether off-site locations are in scope. Note any device you no longer use — we mark retired slots on the map.
Companion worksheet
Clients who prefer to draft layout codes before booking may use our reference worksheet listed on the Microsoft Store.
Available on the Microsoft Store
Next step
When your draft layout is ready — or if you prefer we handle everything on site — request a Full Cabinet Mapping Session.