Materials to prepare before you start packing for self-storage

Packing for self-storage requires careful planning, to ensure that your items are safe and secure while on their way to the storage facility, whilst in storage, and on their way back to you when you retrieve them. Regardless of whether you are moving to a new home, decluttering, or leaving to study abroad, having the correct packing materials can make your self-storage experience a much smoother and efficient process. This blog will guide you through all the essential packing materials you may want to prepare before you start thinking about packing your items into boxes to put into self-storage.

1. Sturdy cardboard boxes

Using sturdy cardboard boxes is extremely important to ensure your belongings are protected during storage and transit. Ensure that the boxes you use are strong enough to be stacked on top of one another – using double-walled boxes (meaning there are two zigzags of cardboard in the layer of the box) is a good idea. Use different-sized boxes depending on the items you plan to put in, to prevent them from becoming overweight and hard to lift.

2. Packing materials

If you are planning to store fragile items such as electronics, dishes, cutlery and vases, using suitable packing materials to cushion your items is vital in maintaining their quality. Here are some examples:

• Bubble wrap: perfect for wrapping fragile items.

• Packing paper: used to fill empty spaces in boxes, preventing the movement of items.

• Packing peanuts or foam padding: additional cushioning and extra protection against impact.

• Packing tape: to seal your boxes tightly and securely, to ensure nothing falls out.

• Labels and markers: label each box with what is inside and which room it belongs to, to make it easier to unpack and retrieve specific items when you need them.

3. Furniture covers

When storing large furniture such as mattresses, sofas and chairs, using furniture covers or blankets is a good idea to prevent them from developing scratches, dust or moisture. As furniture tends to be quite large and bulky, disassembling them and storing small components such as screws and bolts into a plastic bag and attaching them to the corresponding furniture would be a good idea to ensure they don’t get misplaced.

4. Packing tools

Here are some handy tools that you may find useful when packing, to make the process a lot faster and easier:

• Box cutter or knife: for when you cut packing tape, unpack your boxes, and disassemble cardboard boxes to put in recycling.

• Trolley: to move your boxes and furniture without having to make multiple trips – especially if you live in a student accommodation building or an apartment, where you need to use the lift.

• Furniture sliders: to slide heavy furniture such as beds and sofas – preventing damage to surfaces and the risk of injury.

Gathering these packing materials and tools when preparing for self-storage will ensure that your items will be transported and stored safely. Not only will these tips help you keep your items in good condition, but they will also ensure that you are safe throughout the process, by reducing any risks of injury.