Leading the Pack: How to Pack Your Self Storage Unit Like a Pro [Infographic]
For many, self-storage involves indiscernible piles of junk thrown willy-nilly into a storage unit, but with the right strategy in mind, you can turn yourself into a master packer and create a storage space that is safe, organized, and makes it easy to access your stuff.
Your Supplies
- Boxes
- Avoid using plastic bags, which can cause mildew.
- Bubble wrap
- Cleaner than paper
- Can be used repeatedly
- Transparent
- Tape
- Purchase more tape than you think you need
- A marker
- Packing peanuts
- Pack everything you can in boxes to keep away dust.
- Fill boxes to capacity, using foam peanuts to fill in any gaps.
- Wrap fragile items separately.
- Distribute weight in boxes evenly.
- Label all boxes on more than one side.
- Tape the bottom of boxes to prevent heavy items from breaking through.
- Prioritize items based on how frequently you use them.
- Store commonly used items toward the front of the unit.
- Create a center aisle for easy access to all items.
- Place boxes on pallets to provide better circulation under and around items.
- When stacking boxes, keep heavy boxes at the bottom to prevent damage.
- The largest items should be placed against the far wall and along the sides of the unit.
- Place photographs between pieces of cardboard to prevent curling.
- Store shovels, rakes, hoes, and other outdoor equipment in trash cans.
- Store clothing, drapes, and blankets in wardrobe boxes.
- Remove table legs and other external pieces to save space.
- Place tables and dressers top-to-top.
- Stack chairs seat to seat.
- Place computers, TVs, and other valuables farthest from the entrance with other items concealing them.
- Take pictures of valuables and keep an inventory with an estimated replacement value for each item.
- Cover all mattresses and upholstered pieces of furniture.
- Lay mattresses flat on level surfaces.
- Wipe metal surfaces with machine oil to delay rust.
- Wrap mirrors and framed artwork in bubble wrap.
- Use cardboard corners to protect the sharper, weaker areas of the frames.
- Never store these items flat as they can collapse on their own weight.
- Cars
- ATVs
- Motorcycles
- Dirt bikes
- Cars in dead storage
- Service vehicles (e.g., lawn mowers)
- Vehicles designed to assist disabled persons
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