There are many reasons to rent a storage unit: for example, you can move, downsize or renovate your home. Whatever your reasons, it’s important to follow a few simple rules for packing so your belongings stay safe, but also make it easier and more convenient to move them in and out of your storage unit.
Fill boxes with caution: Overfilling a cardboard box can cause it to burst during storage. Even if it doesn’t pop, putting too much on it can make it too heavy to move. Put lighter items in larger boxes and heavier items and items in smaller boxes so you’re not tempted to overfill them.
Take special care with books: the weight of several books can add up quickly. Use a sturdy book box and test periodically as you pack to make sure you can still lift the box. Stack books flat rather than vertically so the spines don’t get damaged.
Stack carefully: Stack heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter boxes on top, with breakable or breakable items stacked on top of everything else. When possible, using boxes that are roughly the same size can make stacking easier. If you are packing oddly shaped items, surround them with packing material so the box doesn’t collapse when stacked.
Don’t overcrowd your space: leave space between stacks of boxes so you can access them more easily in the future. Don’t pack everything directly against the walls; leaving even an inch of space can improve ventilation. Consider starting each stack with a packing platform at the bottom. This takes up more space, but if there’s ever extreme weather that causes a flood, having a few inches of pallet between your stuff and the floor can make all the difference.
Label Every Box – Unless you have a photographic memory, all those identical cardboard boxes start to look the same after a while. Grab a magic marker and save your future self trouble. Don’t feel like you have to catalog every item; a few simple “books” or “kitchen items” should suffice.
Obviously, this is just the tip of the iceberg. You may want to store something that doesn’t require packing with boxes. After all, it’s not convenient or practical to try to pack items like appliances, furniture, or electronics into a cardboard box, and things like sports equipment or outdoor furniture may not need special packing procedures before storage. But for smaller items, following these tips now can save you a lot of trouble later.
