Packing your belongings for storage
Posted on: 20 August 2019
Whether you're seeking temporary space during a move or looking for a place to house business inventory long-term, a storage unit is a cost-effective way to add some extra room. To really get the most out of your storage space, you'll need the right packaging materials.
Packing fragile items
If you're packing fragile items like dishes or glassware, you need to make certain that they don't have much room to move within their boxes. Separate the items with layers of soft packaging material, then fill any empty space in the box with more. Balled-up newspaper will do in a pinch, but the ink can transfer onto your items. For best results, use a soft material such as bubble wrap or foam pellets. Your storage centre might be able to provide you with the packaging supplies you need.
Managing weight
One of the most important things to remember when packing for storage is not to overload your boxes. If you fill a box completely with heavy items such as books, it's likely to split and dump its contents. Instead, combine both light and heavy items within the same box. For example, you could fill the bottom of a box with books and then fill the remaining space with bedding, clothes or other lightweight items. If you have any remaining empty space, fill it with packaging material.
Protecting furniture
Large pieces of furniture are vulnerable to scratching while being transported. The best way to protect these is with furniture pads or furniture blankets. These large padded cloths fasten to the corners of tables or desks and help keep them safe from scuffing or scratching. You can use old bedding if you have any you don't mind damaging or dirtying; alternatively, you can get furniture pads from your storage or moving firm.
Accessibility
If you're using your storage unit to house business inventory rather than personal belongings, ease of access becomes the most important concern. Each item needs to be clearly labelled so that you or other members of your team can find it quickly; if you're storing items in boxes or bins, you need containers that have forward access so that you can reach into them easily. Shelving units can also help you make the most efficient use of your available space.
With the right packaging materials and the right level of preparation, you can get the most use out of your storage space, turning it into a safe, efficiently-organised place to keep your personal belongings or business supplies.
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