Storage and Packing Tips
Tips for packing and storing your belongings to ensure their safety and make your life easier.
Packing
- Completely fill boxes with the heavier items on the bottom
- Label all boxes in an organized manner for easy identification.
- Use same or similar sized boxes to facilitate stacking. Make sure that they're strong enough to hold not only the weight of the contents, but the box that will be on top of it too.
- Dishes, glasses, and other breakables should be wrapped in packing paper or bubble wrap and placed in dish pack boxes.
- Furniture with drawers can be used as storage for small items. Wrap items in tablecloths, towels, or blankets to prevent breakage.
- Large appliances make excellent cases for blankets, towels, tablecloths, and clothes.
- Shovels, rakes, hoses, and other lawn/garden maintenance equipment can be packed together in empty trashcans.
- Stack empty trash cans inside one another.
- Spray or rub wood furniture with a furniture polish and cover with a drop cloth or sheets.
- Apply a light coat of oil to exposed metals to prevent rusting.
- Make sure that all appliance doors are wedged open to allow air circulation. Make sure all appliances are cleaned and completely dry before storing.
- Make a list of all labeled boxes for easy reference when you need to find something.
Storage
- Plan out your storage space. Place items that will be frequently needed in the front, and allow space for walkways.
- Insure your property while in storage.
- Keep a list of your stored items in a secure location at your home or in a safe deposit box.
- Leave some space between the wall and your stored items to allow air circulation.
- Pack your items as close together as possible to avoid the accumulation of moisture.
- Use a quality lock for your unit to keep your valuables as safe as possible.
- Stack smaller boxes on top of larger boxes, and lighter boxes on top of heavier boxes.
- Remember, it is illegal to store materials that are hazardous or combustible such as gasoline, solvents, oils, etc. Drain all gasoline from powered and motorized equipment/vehicles.