If you're moving, downsizing, or simply need extra space, storing your belongings requires careful planning.
This guide provides our expert tips we’ve learned over many years of helping people like you with their removals and storage needs.
Follow this step-by-step guide to pack your items safely, organise them strategically, and maximise your storage unit's potential. Here's a packing checklist to aid your efforts
Let's get started.
Essentials for Success
Let's talk about tools of the trade and strategy-building. Time spent here will save hours down the road so it’s worth doing this right:
Gather the Right Gear
Before the packing frenzy begins, stock up on the essentials. Think beyond just boxes, including:
Packing tape (the sturdy kind, please!)
Bubble wrap, packing paper, or old towels/blankets for cushioning
Markers for clear labelling
Notebook or app to log what goes into each box
Plan Your Packing Strategy
There are two main approaches to tackling your belongings:
Room by Room: This tried-and-true method works well if you've got ample time and want simplicity.
Category Approach: Ideal for time crunches – pack all the clothes, then all the books, and so on.
Create Your Master List
This is your storage unit sanity-saver. Whether a simple notebook or a fancy spreadsheet, jot down the contents of boxes as you go. You'll be grateful for it when you're searching for something later!
Ditch the Dangerous Items
Storage units aren't meant for everything. Avoid headaches and potential hazards by NOT packing these:
Flammable or hazardous materials
Perishable foods
Items that could attract pests or critters
Protect Your Precious Items
From cherished heirlooms to expensive tech, some items demand extra care during the packing process. Let's delve into how to keep your things safe and sound:
Fragile Items
We all have those pieces that make us hold our breath – delicate ornaments, glassware, even grandma's favourite vase. Here's your crash course in fragile item packing:
Individual TLC: Each item needs its own wrapping with packing paper or bubble wrap. Don't skimp here!
Cushioning is Key: Fill up any empty spaces within boxes – old towels, blankets, or scrunched-up newspapers all work well.
Label it Loudly: A big "FRAGILE" written on all sides of the box ensures everyone handles it with care.
Furniture
Large furniture pieces can be intimidating. The key rule: if it can be disassembled safely, do it! Beds, tables, and the like are easier to move and store in pieces. To avoid the dreaded "where do these screws go?" situation, tape a labelled bag of hardware directly to the furniture.
It’s also a good idea to protect exposed areas like table legs or chair seats with blankets or furniture covers.
Mirrors and Large Frames
Start by giving your mirrors a good cleaning. Then, wrap them carefully with cardboard or bubble wrap. The most important tip? Store them upright, never lying flat, as this significantly reduces the risk of cracking.
Electronics
Original boxes are the gold standard for TVs, computers, and other electronics. If those are long gone, wrap individual pieces carefully and generously pad the box they're going into. Coil cords neatly, and don't forget to label those cables clearly to prevent the untangling nightmare later.
Appliances
Fridges, washing machines, and similar appliances need some attention before storage to prevent mould and mildew. Here's the prep:
Fully Empty & Clean: Remove any leftover food particles or standing water. Leave doors slightly ajar for ventilation.
Secure the Moving Parts: Tape down any shelves or drawers prone to rattling and shifting during transport.
Clever Tricks for Specific Items
You've got the basics down, but what about those less obvious things? Let's tackle the oddballs of the packing world:
Clothing
When it comes to your wardrobe, you have choices:
Classic Folding: Ideal for items you'll need access to soon. Plastic boxes provide added protection and dust prevention.
Vacuum Sealing: A fantastic space-saver, but use it wisely. It's best for out-of-season clothing or items you won't need in a hurry.
Footwear
Avoid a jumbled shoe pile at the bottom of a box. Here's how to give your footwear some TLC:
Stuff 'Em: Paper is your friend. Crumpled newspaper or packing paper maintains shoe shape and combats musty odours.
Individual Wraps: Tissue paper or old t-shirts protect delicate items or those prone to scuffing and scratches.
Boxed and Labelled: Clearly mark which shoes reside in each box. Trust us, your future self will appreciate not having to search for those summer sandals in winter.
Jewellery
Untangling delicate necklaces is nobody's idea of fun. Prevent a jewellery jumble with these tricks:
Small is Smart: Look beyond jewellery boxes! Pill organisers or compartmentalised tackle boxes are surprisingly handy.
The Straw Technique: Thread delicate necklaces through drinking straws to keep those chains from getting tangled.
Wrap Before you Pack: Individually wrap items with tissue paper before placing them together in a designated container.
Documents
Important papers, from certificates to contracts, need protection. Shield them from damage with these steps:
Waterproof Storage: Plastic folders or boxes provide the best defence against moisture.
Silica to the Rescue: Those little "DO NOT EAT" packets? They work wonders. Toss some into your document containers to absorb any lingering dampness.
Don't Forget...
We all have those items that don't fit neatly into categories. A little preemptive care makes storage much easier:
Gardening Gear: Empty fuel tanks, clean tools, and store blades properly.
Holiday Cheer: Wrap fragile decorations and box them sensibly to prevent crushing.
Sports Enthusiasts: Deflate balls, wipe down bikes, and take steps to minimise rust on exposed metal.
Mastering Your Storage Unit
Now, it's time to bring your expertly packed belongings into their new temporary home. Smart storage unit organisation will make retrieval a breeze:
Box Sizes Matter
Variety is your friend! A mix of small, medium, and large boxes helps you maximise space. Remember, overpacking large boxes will make them impossible to lift safely.
Label Like a Librarian
Be specific with your labels, ditching vague terms like "Kitchen Stuff" in favour of "Pots and Pans" or "Christmas Decorations." Always include the room where the items belong, even if you think you'll remember. Label at least two sides of each box for easy visibility, and create a master list (digital or handwritten) of what's inside every box.
Build Smart Stacks
Think like a weightlifter – the heaviest boxes form your base with lighter items on top. Stability is key to prevent any toppling disasters.
Walkways are Key
Resist the urge to cram in every last item. Leave designated walkways to reach specific boxes without having to play storage Tetris.
Next Stop: A Well-Organised Future
Imagine the satisfaction of a well-organised storage unit. You'll know exactly where everything is, with your belongings safe and sound. By following these packing strategies, you're giving yourself a gift – freedom from clutter and the confidence that your items are protected.
And if you need additional assistance, Denix Moving is here to help with all your storage needs. We can handle everything including carefully packing your belongings, transporting everything to the storage unit, storing them effectively to save on storage costs and getting them back to you when needed.
Our award-winning team ensures that your items are handled with the utmost care and professionalism. Get in touch today.
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