How to Properly Pack a Storage Unit

Make sure that your boxes are not too heavy!

Springtime is the time for spring cleaning, reorganizing and planning for summer moves. When you are planning for these events, include reserving a storage unit to the list. You will need to store the items that you still have to keep, but no longer have room to keep in the home.  When you are searching for a storage facility make sure that you know exactly what you need to place inside the storage unit, this will make choosing the storage unit size and packing the storage unit much easier.  Stop N Stor  has a variety of climate and non-climate controlled storage units that will help you in your storage needs.  Once you have decided on the right sized storage unit, it is important to properly pack and organize the items that you are placing in storage. When it is time to move your items into your storage unit, it is crucial to pack the boxes and items correctly in the storage unit. This will help protect the items while in storage as well as make it easier for you to access items that you might need.

Below are some tips to properly pack your storage unit:

1. Come up with a plan on where you want to put your items in the storage unit. Once everything is in place, make an inventory list and map of where things are located in the storage unit.

2. Sweep out the storage unit. Place cardboard or plastic covering down on the floor. If storing long-term in a non-climate controlled storage unit, you might want to invest in moisture absorbers, deodorizers and vermin control protection.

3. Put the items and belongings that you will need to access more in the front of the storage unit.

4. Put valuable items, such as computers or TVs towards the middle or back of the storage unit away from the door.

5. Pack electronic items in their original boxes, if possible. If not, then find boxes that are similar in size to the electronics and add filler paper or bubble wrap to protect the item.

6. Leave space around the outside of the storage unit for ventilation. If you have a larger storage unit, leave a pathway in the unit to make it easier to access items.

7. Stack like-sized boxes together with the heavier boxes at the bottom and the lighter boxes on top.  Boxes should not be heavier than 30 pounds, or it could be difficult to lift and carry them.

8. Don’t stack the boxes too high, because you will still need to access them at some point.

9. Cover furniture with a canvas or cloth cover to protect them from dust and dirt. Also, use mattress covers to protect mattresses in storage.

10. Stack chairs on top of one another to save space.

11. Stack couches and mattresses vertically in the storage unit to give added storage space.

12. Clean out all appliances before storage. The inside of a cleaned out refrigerator is a perfect spot to store smaller boxes or appliances.

13. If you are storing any type of machinery, make sure to drain the oil and properly prep the machine for storage.

14. Gather rakes, shovels and brooms together into a garbage can.

15. Take apart beds and tables. Keep the screws and bolts in a clear plastic bag attached to the legs.