When packing for storage, the first rule of thumb is simple: put everything in a box. This way, you can stack items easily. Always choose boxes with lids, and tape both the bottom and top of each box. You can also use plastic tubs for packing because they are uniform in size and stack nicely inside a storage unit.
Preparing your items for storage
- First, use proper-size boxes. Place heavier items into smaller boxes to make them easier to lift, and put bulky lightweight items into larger boxes.
- Next, fill each box completely to prevent the contents from shifting. As a result, you reduce movement by placing paper in any open spaces.
- Additionally, mark each box with the room it came from and number the box. For more packing tips, check out our previous blog: Packing Moving Boxes
- Pack mirrors, pictures, paintings, and lamps as well. Everything should be in a box. Since a shoebox is not a packing box, place smaller boxes inside moving boxes.
- Furthermore, drain all water from appliances, clean them, and tape down any moving parts before storing them. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors slightly ajar to prevent mildew.
- Disassemble furniture, too. For example, remove mirrors from dressers and pack them separately. Beds also need disassembling. Then, cover all furniture with pads to prevent scratching.
Note: Do not put flammable or hazardous substances into storage. This includes, but is not limited to, cleaning supplies, aerosol cans, alcoholic beverages, oil-based paint, lacquers, lighter fluid, oil, propane, firearms, and ammunition. Moreover, do not put any food into storage, even if it’s unopened, because it attracts pests.
Storage: There are two different types of storage: self-storage and vault/container storage. Both are “Do-It-Yourself” options. With self-storage facilities, you need to transport everything to the facility. However, with a container storage option like PODS the company brings the container to you (for a fee). In both cases, you must know how to load the unit properly to avoid damage.
If you choose to hire a moving company, the movers can transport the items to a self-storage facility and load the unit for you. PODS were designed for do-it-yourselfers; however, if you plan to hire a moving company to load the container at your home, you should talk to a Full-Service Moving Company first about your options. In most cases, it’s cheaper to use a full-service mover for storage when you are already using their services. Always use a licensed, legal mover and visit their facility ahead of time. This way, you can get a good feel for how they will take care of your belongings by checking out their facility.
In our next blog, we’ll talk about loading a storage unit or storage vault for those do-it-yourselfers.