The Dos and Don’ts of Packing Your Belongings for storage

Published: 01 May 2023

1. Do: Plan and Organise

When preparing your belongings for storage, it’s crucial to plan and organise your items. Create an inventory list of all the items you’ll be storing, and categorise them by type or room. This will help you determine the number of boxes and packing materials needed, as well as make it easier to locate your items when you need them.

2. Do: Use Sturdy and Appropriately Sized Boxes

Invest in high-quality, sturdy boxes to ensure the safety of your belongings during transport and storage. Use appropriately sized boxes for your items—placing heavy items in smaller boxes and lighter, bulkier items in larger boxes. This will prevent boxes from collapsing under the weight and make it easier to stack them in your storage unit.

3. Do: Protect Fragile Items with Packing Materials

Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap, packing paper, or foam padding to provide cushioning and protection during storage. Use packing peanuts or crumpled newspaper to fill empty spaces in the boxes, preventing items from shifting during transport. Label boxes containing fragile items clearly to ensure they are handled with care.

4. Do: Disassemble and Wrap Large Furniture Pieces

Disassemble large furniture pieces, such as beds and tables, to save space in your storage unit and make transport easier. Wrap each part in furniture blankets or bubble wrap to protect them from scratches, dents, and other damage. Store screws, bolts, and other furniture hardware together in an envelope or zip lock bag.

5. Don’t: Overpack Boxes

Avoid over packing boxes, as this can lead to damage and difficulty in lifting and moving them. Distribute the weight evenly among your boxes, and ensure they are not too heavy for one person to handle. Overpacked boxes may also be more prone to collapsing, which can damage your belongings.

6. Don’t: Use Plastic Bags for Packing

While plastic bags may seem convenient for packing, they can trap moisture and lead to mould and mildew growth. Instead, use breathable materials like packing paper or linen to wrap your items, especially for long-term storage.

7. Don’t: Forget to Label Your Boxes

Failing to label your boxes can make it challenging to find specific items when you need them. Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to, using a permanent marker. This will save you time and frustration when searching for items in your storage unit.

8. Don’t: Store Perishable or Hazardous Items

Avoid storing perishable items like food, plants, or other organic materials, as they can attract pests and cause unpleasant odours. Similarly, do not store hazardous materials, such as flammable, corrosive, or toxic substances, in your storage unit. These items can pose a significant risk to your belongings and the storage facility.

In conclusion, following these dos and don’ts of packing your belongings for storage will ensure that your items are protected, organised, and easily accessible. Vault Moving & Storage are the storage experts, offering a range of services, including mobile module units and professional packing assistance, to make your storage experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Trust in Vault Moving & Storage to care for your belongings as if they were our own, and contact our friendly customer service team today to discuss your storage needs.