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How to Pack Boxes for Self-Storage
Packing boxes for self-storage is a tiring task that most, of course, hope to finish with as quickly as possible. Packing items quickly though may be costly in the long run.
The key to your success is keeping the unpacking process in mind as you pack, and here, we at Storage Protectors want to arm you with the proper knowledge to pack your storage items safely, organized for access and unpacking, and with the most space-saving in mind.
Always use boxes
Boxes are what you need if you are packing for storage. Garbage bags are not. Boxes are durable and made for stacking together well; bags rip and, well, they don’t stack at all really.
Always use one brand
Try to acquire boxes that all come from the same supplier. When doing this, the base size of the box will remain the same, regardless of the height of the box, allowing them to stack perfectly together, creating no wasted space in between.
Use the right sizes
Always chose your box to pack based on the items going inside it, keeping in mind the weight. In other words, you don’t want to fill a massive box with books, or you’ll break your back (or someone else’s) trying to carry it. Not only that, but if a box is filled with too much weight, then it may collapse.
Keep the right items together
When packing boxes, always fill boxes with items from one space to make the unpacking process much smoother. If everything from one dresser can go in one box, then unpacking it becomes much easier than having a box of random items from all over the house. Moreover, labelling a box like this is clear and concise: “Contents from Master Bedroom Dresser (Her’s).”
Fragile items
Packing fragile items, such as glassware or antiques, require extra care. First, line the bottom of the box with crushed/crumpled paper, and then wrap fragile items individually in clean packing paper (as ink will rub off from newsprint and stain your items). Utilize additional crushed paper between items to pack them tightly together to avoid any movement. Add more crushed paper on the top of the box, especially in the corners, to keep it durable.
Don’t waste space
Firstly, wasting space is just going to cost you more is storage space, supplies, and energy moving it all. Secondly, leaving space within boxes will only leave the items inside to movement and leave the box more susceptible to being crushed under the weight of other items in storage. If you’re packing something, pack it all the way.
Seal and label
When a box is full, make sure to seal it well. Tape should go cross the entire seal – you can add more to the corners and crevices to ensure dust stays out. And then label your boxes (writing on the tape that can be removed afterwards, so the box can be reused), being as clear as possible as what is inside and where it is to go at the final destination.
Always be insured
While all of the above will go a long way to ensuring you storage belongings remain safe, insurance is still a must for self-storage items. Check your homeowner’s policy, as your storage items may be covered, and speak to your agent to be sure, explaining exactly the types of items you are storing to be sure they are included by the coverage.
If you require additional coverage, speak with us at Storage Protectors. We’re the leading storage insurance provider that help secure your belongings within storage units, mobile containers, and during transport. Speak with our customer support for more information.
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