We are all running out of space these days, packing up items that clutter up your home helps make your space more livable. Placing items in self storage is great for people who are planning on moving or just need more space.
Prevent damage and preserve your valuables by doing it right. This means packing carefully and thinking ahead.
Guidelines for Packing Valuables
First, get organized.
Take time to plan ahead and organize what is being packed up.
- Before packing things away, make a list and assign ‘like’ items to its respective box.This will make it a lot easier to find items when you need them.
- Be sure to write down the estimated replacement value for each, particularly if you want to insure your things. If there are breakables, place “fragile” stickers on the box.
Second, clean everything prior to packing.
Protect and preserve your valuables. Prevent mold and mildew from destroying your belongings by cleaning everything before you pack things up.
- Wash and dry clothing, sheets, blankets, drapery, and curtains.
- Wipe down the surfaces of every piece of furniture. Wood polish for wood items, conditioner for leather, and rust preventative for metal items.
Third, prep large items so that they can be stored without taking up too much space.
Take apart items like bed frames and tables, and remove lampshades from lamps. This will help protect them from breaking and make them easier to move.
- Use plastic bags to store the nuts and bolts, and secure it to the piece of furniture with tape.
- Cover furniture with dust covers to protect them from stains, tears and scratches.
Next, label boxes on all sides including the top.
Labeling helps you know exactly what is in each box so you can find and retrieve items with ease.
- Be sure to mark boxes full of breakables as fragile.’
- Label every box in detail, going beyond just labeling by room. Give a short list of what is in the box.
Lastly, when choosing a storage unit factor in enough space so that you can access your valuables with ease. Plan for an aisle so you can get to stuff at the back of the unit and the sides.
Smart Tips for Packing Boxes
One. Use no more than two sizes of boxes.
Boxes should be sturdy enough that the bottom box can withstand the weight of all the other boxes being stacked on top of it.
- By using only two size boxes, stacking will be easier and more organized.
- Use large boxes for lightweight items and small boxes for heavy items.
- Note: recycled boxes may break open if used for heavy items, so consider using plastic bins which are sturdy and prevent mold and mildew from degrading your valuables.
- Don’t stack boxes or items higher than your head.
- Place boxes of fragile items on top of other boxes.
Two. Fill each box completely.
- Fill the entire box but not all with heavy materials so that it won’t be too difficult to carry.
- Use packing material like newspaper or bubble wrap to fill in the gaps. This will prevent the top or sides from crushing.
- Don’t fill boxes too full. This may cause them to burst.
- Fill the box with the heavy items first and then fill it to capacity with lighter items.
- Use smaller boxes to pack books so that they are not too heavy and don’t stand them on end as this could damage the spines.
- Use wardrobe boxes to hang up clothing and fabrics while in storage. This will ensure your clothes don’t wrinkle and retain their shape.
- Seal boxes with packing tape to ensure they are secure for moving.
Three. Pack breakables in bubble wrap or packing paper.
When wrapping fragile and breakable valuables, use old cloth towels or sheets.
- Wrap cloth furniture and mattresses in cotton sheets to protect it during moving and storing.
- Wrap mirrors and picture frames with bubble wrap, tape an “X” across the glass, and buy fitted cardboard corners to protect edges.
- Store framed mirrors, photographs and artwork vertically rather than flat.
- Individually wrap every plate, dish, and cup. Stack plates on end in the box with like-sized items to avoid cracking or chipping during the move.
- Place like-sized items together and nest individually wrapped cups together.
- Avoid using plastic bags as they keep in moisture and cause mold to grow on your items.
Four. Store equipment and appliances safely.
- When preparing equipment and appliances for storage, drain all liquids and fuel completely.
- Freezers and refrigerators should be stored with the door slightly open.
- Electrical appliances should be completely dry–defrost freezers and refrigerators, drain washing machines completely.
Need packing supplies or you are not sure about what size storage unit you need? Our friendly staff is glad to help answer any of your questions about unit sizes and any other questions you may have.
About Montgomery Self Storage
Montgomery Self Storage is your neighborhood self storage center. Making people’s lives easier for 15 years.
Montgomery Self Storage offers indoor and outdoor units. Book a unit online or call us to rent a unit. All Units are cleaned and ready for storage.
The owners are on the premises where your valuables are stored. They routinely look after your valuables and monitor the storage units with 24/7 security cameras. TheVillage of Montgomery, NY is a super safe community to store your valuables.
SOCIAL DISTANCING:
Montgomery Self Storage follows state and federal guidelines for social distancing and sanitation. The health and safety of our customers and employees is our highest priority.
Please stay safe during your move.