Self-storage is a convenient and practical solution for keeping your belongings safe and organised. Whether you’re moving, decluttering, or needing extra space, proper packing is essential to ensure your items remain pristine during their stay in the storage facility.
Let’s walk you through the dos and do nots of packing for self-storage, providing expert tips to guarantee a hassle-free and successful storage experience!
DO Plan Ahead
Before packing your belongings for self-storage, take the time to plan and strategise. Create a packing checklist to help you plan ahead. This process will help you avoid last-minute rush and ensure you have all the necessary packing supplies.
DO Use High-Quality Packing Materials
Invest in sturdy and high-quality packing materials to protect your items in self-storage. Opt for strong cardboard boxes, bubble wrap, packing tape, and furniture covers. Using proper materials will safeguard your belongings from potential damage.
DO Label Your Boxes
Labelling your boxes is a simple yet effective way to stay organised during packing and when accessing your items later. Mark each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. This method will save you time and effort when you need to find something specific.
DO Disassemble Furniture
For more oversized items such as furniture, disassemble them whenever possible. Organising your furniture this way will save space and protect them from potential damage during transportation and storage. Keep all the necessary screws and small parts in labelled bags and tape them to the corresponding furniture pieces.
DO Use Uniform Box Sizes
Using uniform box sizes will make stacking and arranging your items in the storage unit much easier. Uniform boxes create a stable foundation and maximise the available space. It also simplifies the process of accessing your belongings when needed.
DO Leave an Aisle in the Storage Unit
When packing your self-storage unit, leave a central aisle to access items at the back without moving everything around. Proper organisation will save you time and effort in the long run.
DO Protect Fragile Items
Use ample protective materials for delicate and breakable items like glassware and electronics. Bubble wrap, packing paper, and foam inserts are excellent choices to ensure these items remain intact throughout their time in storage.
DON’T Use Newspaper for Wrapping
While using old newspapers for wrapping items may be tempting, they can leave ink stains and damage your belongings. Opt for clean, white packing paper instead to protect your valuables adequately.
DON’T Overstuff Boxes
Avoid overstuffing boxes, as this can lead to them breaking or becoming too heavy to handle. Follow the box’s weight limits and use additional boxes for excess items.
DON’T Forget to Clean and Dry Items
Before packing your belongings, make sure they are clean and dry. Dirt and moisture can lead to mould, mildew, and other damage while in storage. Clean items thoroughly, especially kitchenware and appliances, to avoid attracting pests.
DON’T Neglect Proper Documentation
Maintain a detailed inventory of the items you’re storing in the unit. This documentation will help you keep track of your belongings and will be crucial for insurance purposes in case of unforeseen events.
DON’T Rush the Packing Process
Packing for self-storage requires time and attention to detail. Take your time with the process, as it can lead to improper packing and potential damage to your items. Take the time to pack carefully to ensure everything remains in excellent condition.
