Best packing methods for items in self storage

Packing – whether done for relocation or storage purposes, is a task that can give you a lot of headaches. There is a multitude of different variables that make packing such a complicated and time-consuming process. And the stakes are even higher when packing a storage unit where you want to maximize the space you have and use up every last inch of it. We here at PortaBox Storage know a thing or two about the successful packing of a storage unit, and we certainly know a lot about the best packing methods that result in a perfectly composed unit.

Our way of packing your items inside your Kirkland self storage unit will be easy, efficient, and safe. Not only will you get the most use out of your unit, but you will also get to protect your items while in storage. So pay attention in the next couple of minutes because you are about to get some tips that will be very handy and maybe even lifechanging.

Be careful what you use when packing your items

They say you can never go wrong with cardboard moving boxes and we definitely agree with that statement. These days, people are blessed with a multitude of choices in all aspects of life. That’s why today, you can find packing materials galore. However, deciding to stick to the basics and using cardboard boxes for packing your items can never be a wrong move.

The reason why you’ll want to avoid using plastic containers lies in their ability to trap moisture. And moisture is among the last things you want to find in your storage unit. If you don’t know where you can find sturdy packing supplies in Seattle, just dial our number. We can supply you with all the cardboard boxes you could ever need. Alternatively, you will be able to find these supplies all around town. From buying them at stores to getting them for free at pharmacies, all you have to do is look.

Stacking is the name of the game when it comes to the best packing methods

You are only given a certain amount of space inside your storage unit. And what you do with it is completely up to you. Of course, why not use it to the fullest and protect your items by being smart when placing the boxes inside the unit? It doesn’t matter which Seattle mini storage you opted for – the best way to pack items inside a unit is by stacking boxes on top of each other. As always, there’s a right and wrong way of stacking your boxes.

You always want to ensure that the boxes containing heavier items are placed at the bottom. From there, you can stack lighter boxes on top of heavier ones, finishing with the lightest boxes you have. Also, make sure that the stacks you are making are of reasonable height. The danger of all those boxes crumbling down is a real one and you should not take it lightly.

Extra tip: speaking of lighter and heavier items, the general rule of thumb is to use larger boxes for items that aren’t heavy, and smaller boxes for heavier stuff. Books are great for small cardboard boxes while pillows will fit perfectly into larger ones.

Strategically fill out the available space inside your unit

One of the most important questions you need to ask yourself while packing items for storage is when is the next time you think you’ll need them. Let’s say you have rented a storage unit for an entire year. Are there any items you plan on retrieving before the end of your lease? If the answer is yes, then you need to ensure that the boxes containing those items are closer to the front of the unit.

Thus, when you start placing items in storage, start from the bottom and work your way to the front. Fill the back of the unit with items you don’t plan to use in the near future and the front with those you are going to need sooner or later. You’ll be happy you took some time to organize your unit once you don’t have to spend hours in order to find that one object.

Never forget one very important thing – labeling your cardboard boxes

At the end of the day, you could do everything by the book and still not manage to get it right. Do you want to know what’s one of the crucial mistakes people make after packing their items? It’s forgetting to label their boxes. It’s easy to see why labeling your moving boxes is such an important step. For starters, you have a very clear idea of what’s inside a box once you label it. That means you won’t have to spend as much time rummaging through your boxes once you need to find something. Scratch that – you won’t have to spend more than a minute. Ultimately, it’s very important to label a box with the word FRAGILE if it contains any breakable items. That’s the only way for your items to get the attention and care that they deserve.

The bottom line

All of the best packing methods revolve around you being careful and organized. And if you are having any trouble with the successful packing of your items, don’t hesitate to ask for help. There are many professionals around who will love to help you pack your items and keep them protected while in storage. Moreover, you can always feel free to ask our personnel about any suggestions if you rent any of our units.