Packing for Storage: How to Prep Your Possessions

Whether you’re moving, decluttering, or need a place for your excess belongings (i.e., Halloween decorations), knowing how to pack for storage is the key to preventing damage. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach; it depends on the items you’re storing, what type of storage you’ll use, and how long your possessions will be stored.

This blog offers general tips and guidelines to help you make the most of your storage space and protect your property.

Assess Your Storage Needs

Take a moment to evaluate what you need to store. Ask yourself:

• How long will my things be in storage?
• What items require special care?
• Do I need climate-controlled storage?
• Will I need access to my belongings while in storage?

Once you have a clear idea of your needs, you can start planning the packing process.

Gather Your Packing Supplies

These may include:

• Sturdy boxes in various sizes and types
• Bubble wrap or packing paper
• Tape and scissors
• Labels and markers for labeling boxes
• Furniture covers or blankets for larger items
• Plastic bins or containers for items that need extra protection
• Vacuum-sealed bags for clothing and bedding

Sort & Declutter

Go Room by Room

Sort your belongings one room at a time to keep yourself organized and sane. Categorize items into three groups:

1. Keep
2. Donate/Sell
3. Discard

Be Ruthless

Do you really need that sweater you haven’t worn in years? Or those old magazines? If not, it’s time to let go.

Packing Tips for Different Items

Furniture

• Disassemble large furniture pieces if possible.
• Keep screws and small parts in labeled bags taped to the furniture.
• Cover furniture with blankets or pads to protect against scratches and damage.

Electronics

• If you have their original boxes and packing materials, use them.
• If not, bubble wrap and sturdy boxes work well.
• Take a photo of cord connections for easier reassembly later.
• Remember to label the cords and pack them with the respective devices.

Clothing & Bedding

• Use vacuum-sealed bags to save space and protect from moisture and pests.
• Wash and thoroughly dry all items before packing to prevent mold or mildew growth.
• Use wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes.

Dishes & Glassware

• Wrap each plate, bowl, and glass separately with packing paper or bubble wrap to prevent chipping.
• Place a layer of crumpled packing paper at the bottom of the box for cushioning.
• Stack wrapped dishes vertically in the box, with heavier items on the bottom and lighter ones on top.
• Fill empty spaces with crumpled paper or bubble wrap to prevent movement during transport.
• Seal the box securely and label it as “fragile” for easy identification.

Books

• Use sturdy, medium-sized boxes to prevent them from becoming too heavy.
• Pack books upright, as if on a shelf; this protects the spine.
• Pack larger or heavier books flat to avoid damage.
• Fill empty spaces in the box with crumpled paper to prevent shifting.
• Avoid overpacking boxes; aim for about 50 pounds maximum per box.

Lamps

• Disassemble the lamp if possible, removing the shade and bulb.
• Wrap the lampshade in bubble wrap or packing paper to protect it from crushing and scratches.
• Use a sturdy box to pack the lamp base. Cushion it with crumpled paper or bubble wrap on all sides.
• Place the lamp base upright in the box.
• Label the box as “Fragile” and indicate that it contains a lamp to ensure careful handling.

Paintings & Mirrors

• Use custom-fit cardboard or bubble wrap to cover the surface of the painting or mirror.
• For framed items, consider placing a piece of cardboard between the glass and the frame to prevent cracking.
• Secure the wrapped painting or mirror with tape.
• Pack artwork and mirrors in a stable, upright position within a box to prevent shifting.
• Fill any space in the box with packing materials, such as bubble wrap or crumpled paper.
• Label the box as “Fragile” and indicate it contains artwork or mirrors.

Appliances

• Clean appliances thoroughly to prevent odors or spills.
• Tape down doors to keep them from opening during transport.
• Cover appliances with moving blankets or bubble wrap to protect against scratches and dents.
• Drain any moisture beforehand to prevent damage or leaks.
• Pack cords and accessories with the respective appliances and label them for easy identification.
• Always transport appliances in an upright position.

Camping Equipment

• Clean and dry all camping gear to prevent mildew and pests.
• Disassemble items like tents, poles, and chairs for compact storage.
• Store sleeping bags and pads in breathable bags to maintain their shape.
• Keep cooking gear and utensils together in a designated container.
• Use bins for small items like matches, first aid kits, and tools.
• Protect sensitive items like lanterns and coolers with bubble wrap or packing paper.
• Store larger items, such as coolers and camping chairs, on shelves to maximize space.

Gas-Powered Tools

• Clean and dry tools thoroughly to remove dirt, debris, or fuel residue.
• Drain fuel tanks and oil reservoirs to prevent leaks, spills, and fire hazards.
• Remove batteries, if applicable, and store them separately in a cool, dry place.
• Store tools in a designated area away from extreme temperatures and direct sunlight.
• Use protective covers to shield tools from dust and moisture.
• Hang or store tools on shelves to keep them organized and easily accessible.

Recommended Packing Techniques

• Clearly label every box with its contents and which room it belongs in.
• Fill boxes to the top, using packing paper or bubble wrap as filler. This will reduce shifting during transport.
• Wrap fragile items individually with bubble wrap or packing paper, and place extra padding in boxes. Mark these boxes as “fragile” and avoid stacking heavy items on top of them.
• Place heavy items in smaller boxes to prevent bulky, unmanageable boxes. Label these boxes as “heavy” for easier handling.

Store Your Items Correctly

• Heavier items should be stored at the bottom of your unit, lighter ones on top.
• Store frequently used items toward the front of the unit for easy access.
• Take advantage of vertical space by stacking boxes and using available shelves.
• Keep a clear path to access all of your items.
• Use moisture-absorbing products, such as silica gel packets or moisture control bags, to prevent damage from humidity.

Climate-Controlled Units

Consider renting a climate-controlled storage unit for items that are sensitive to extreme temperatures or humidity. These units maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level to protect your belongings from potential damage. Items that may benefit from this type of storage include:

• Wooden furniture
• Electronics
• Musical instruments
• Artwork and photographs

Security Measures

Opt for a storage facility with good security measures. Look for places with surveillance cameras, secure locks, and on-site staff.

FAQs: Packing for Storage

Q: How should I pack fragile items?

Use plenty of padding, such as bubble wrap or packing paper. Pack fragile items tightly in sturdy boxes and fill gaps with additional paper or padding to prevent movement.

Q: What shouldn’t I store?

Avoid storing perishable food, hazardous materials, and high-value items like important documents or jewelry. These items are better kept at home or in a safety deposit box.

Q: How can I maximize space in my storage unit?

Use shelving units to stack boxes vertically to the full height of your storage unit. Store heavier items at the bottom and lighter ones on top.

Q: How do I protect my furniture during storage?

If possible, disassemble any furniture and cover it with moving blankets or plastic wrap to protect against scratches and dust. Avoid placing heavy items on top of furniture.

Q: Is it safe to store electronics in a non-climate-controlled unit?

While you can store electronics in a non-climate-controlled unit, we advise a climate-controlled unit. This will protect your electronics from humidity and extreme temperature fluctuations that can cause damage.

Q: How can I prevent pests from getting into my storage unit?

Ensure all items are clean and dry before packing, use airtight containers when possible, and consider deploying pest deterrents like mothballs or essential oils. Regularly inspect your storage unit for any signs of pests.

Q: What’s the best way to store large items like mattresses?

If space allows, store mattresses flat or in a mattress bag for protection. Avoid storing heavy items on top of them to maintain their shape and integrity.