Packing For Storage

There is a lot more to good storage procedure than simply buying or renting some storage space, and then shoving a bunch of stuff into it. If you want to get the most out of your space, and make it easier to use, there are some other things you should do. To help you organize your space, we have reprinted a few pages from storagebuildingblog.com, and a few changes, additions, and subtractions  that might come in handy for our readers.

If you just shove a bunch of stuff inside willy nilly, you will have a constant problem sorting things out, and probably some damage as a result. Getting organized is not that difficult, and it really pays off!

Storage Preparation packing and storing in your storage building

Packing

• When packing, be sure to use the right boxes. Get sturdy boxes, preferably the same size, to make stacking easy.

• Box everything that you possibly can. It is much easier to unpack a box than to disassemble a 3 D puzzle. Items inside boxes will stay cleaner than non packed items.

• Mark your boxes in a couple of places so that you will be able to find the right one when you need it.

• Mark boxes containing glass and other breakable items accordingly. Make sure that they are packed in some sort of protected wrapping like bubble wrap, or something similar.

• Don’t pack too many heavy items in a box.

• Fill the boxes to a reasonable level to save space. Unless the items are heavy, or easily crushed, fill them to the top.

• Books can get heavy fast, and they need to be stored flat.

• Plastic storage bags can cause humidity problems for the items they hold.

• Make sure what you are packing is dry before it is stored.

• Take apart anything that you can, to save space. Just be sure to box and label the hardware.

• Seal all box flaps with packing tape before stacking.

Appliances Furniture Tools

• Before you store major appliances, make sure that everything is removed and drained, and that they are well cleaned and dried.

• With refrigerators and freezers, be sure to defrost them, and leave the door opened slightly to prevent mold.

• Tie up cords and hoses to keep them from getting tangled or damaged.

• Use protective wrapping material for mirrors and other flat glass surfaces, and mark them as being fragile.

• Be sure to put some type of padding between furniture pieces to avoid scratches and dents.

• Fabric covered items should be covered with cloth to prevent dust problems.

• Fabric furniture like box springs and mattresses should be kept off the floor if at all possible.

Tips:

• You can use the drawers of night stands and dressers to store some items.

• Photos should be stored carefully so as not to damage them. Beware of extreme humidity and the effects of heat and cold.

• Leather clothing or furniture might need to be treated before storage. Check with manufacturer.

• Wood furniture might benefit from treatment as well.

• Metal tools, and wooden handles, can be protected from rust and corrosion for long term storage by a light coat of linseed oil on all surfaces.

• Tape or tie tools with long handles together.

• Try to keep axes, hammers and other such tools with handles which go through the working end, from resting on the floor where they might absorb moisture and become loose.

• Clothing is best stored in garment bags or boxes.

• Box all electronics, this will help to keep dust out.

• Store larger, heavier items first.

• Leave an aisle for better access.

We gratefully acknowledge the the source of this information, and thank StorageBuildingBlog.com for allowing it’s use here.