How to Pack Your Belongings for Long-Term Storage
Packing away belongings is essentially the IRL (in real life) version of our childhood favorite game, Tetris (Honestly, who didn’t love Tetris growing up?). There is certainly a method to the madness of packing. Careful packing ensures that your items remain in good condition and are easy to access when you need them. You also maximize your available storage space with proper packing. Here are some tips to help you pack your belongings for long-term storage at Southern Storage.
1. Choose Quality Packing Materials
Invest in high-quality packing materials, including sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and strong tape. Good materials will protect your belongings from dust, moisture, and potential damage while in storage.
2. Label Everything Clearly
This one is a biggie: Clearly label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. We can’t stress that enough. This will make your life much easier when locating specific items when you need them. Consider numbering the boxes and keeping an inventory list for quick reference.
3. Disassemble Large Items
If possible, disassemble large items like furniture to save space and prevent damage. Keep screws, bolts, and other small parts in labeled bags taped to the respective item, so you can easily reassemble them later.
4. Wrap Fragile Items Carefully
Fragile items such as glassware, dishes, and electronics should be wrapped individually in bubble wrap or packing paper. Place them in boxes with plenty of cushioning material to prevent shifting and breakage during transport and storage.
5. Avoid Overpacking Boxes
While it may be tempting to fill boxes to the brim, overpacking can lead to breakage or difficulty moving the boxes. Pack heavy items like books in smaller boxes to prevent them from becoming too heavy to lift safely.
6. Use Plastic Containers for Sensitive Items
For sensitive items like clothing, documents, and electronics, consider using plastic containers with airtight lids. These containers provide extra protection against moisture and pests.
7. Create an Accessible Layout
When storing your packed belongings, think about accessibility. Place items you may need sooner toward the front of the unit. Stack boxes in a way that allows for easy retrieval, with heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter ones on top.
8. Cover Furniture and Mattresses
Cover furniture and mattresses with protective covers to shield them from dust and moisture. This will help keep them in good condition for when you need them again.
9. Keep Valuables and Essentials Separate
If you’re storing valuables or items you may need unexpectedly, keep them in a separate, easily accessible box. This will save you time and effort if you need to retrieve something quickly.
10. Inspect Your Storage Unit Regularly
Even though your items are in long-term storage, it’s a good idea to check on them periodically. This allows you to ensure everything is in good condition and make any necessary adjustments.
By following these tips, you can ensure that your belongings are packed properly for long-term storage at
Southern Storage. Taking the time to pack carefully will give you peace of mind knowing your items are safe and well-protected.