How to Pack a Self Storage Unit
Packing a storage unit is a lot like packing a moving truck. In both cases, the goal is to maximize the use of available space and minimize the chances of damages. You may think it's a no-brainer, but without a well thought out plan, you may end up creating a mess. If this is the first time you need to pack a self-storage unit, then here are some easy packing tips to get the job done well.
Create an inventoryBefore you start packing, make a list of everything that will go into the storage unit. This is important for two reasons: for the purpose of insurance claims in case of natural disasters such as fire and flood, and for making it easy to recall what's inside your unit in case you need something later.
Pack everything in boxesSince space utilization and damage prevention are the two primary goals of packing a storage unit, use uniformly sized boxes to pack all the items. Use boxes that are strong and have flat, non-slippery surfaces and can be stacked high. This way, you will be able to utilize all the vertical space available. If you don't have the time, get moving help from your moving company.
Pack the items tightlyPack the items inside a box tightly so that there will be no holes and empty spaces between your items. This prevents them from colliding into each other when being moved.
Label the boxesWith so many boxes stacked one on top of another in the storage, you may forget which box contains what item. So, label the boxes with bold letters. Be specific when labeling. If a box contains 10 items of different categories, write the name of every category. Face the labels towards the door so that you will be able to identify them easily.
Leave room for easy access to the items you may needWhile the items you have packed in a self-storage unit are meant to be there for a long time, you may need some of them during emergencies. So, make sure to leave enough room for easy access to such items. In fact, the best thing would be to place the boxes containing these items near the door.
Put the tallest and heaviest items firstSince tall and bulky objects, such as furniture and washing machine, can cause much damage if they fall on top of smaller items, you should make it a point to put them in first. Place tall items like fridge and mattress against the wall. Place other heavy items in the space between them and put the smaller boxes on top of them.
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My husband and I are thinking about getting a storage unit because we recently moved into a smaller apartment, and we don't have room for everything anymore. I like your tip to pack everything in boxes since that will help make sure you can use the vertical space better. We'll have to make sure to do that so that we can fit everything we need to in whatever storage unit we choose, and so we can help make sure that everything is organized better too.
Creating a good plan is the first thing on my list. With good organization and making a useful checklist, you can move with ease. Nothing can be a problem when you make good decisions. Thank you for the useful tips!
Moving with kids is extra tough. You should prepare everything with extra care.