Advice on Packing Your Storage Unit
Storage units are wonderful. You can store items you need without cluttering up your home space, or you can temporarily store your belongings during the relocation process. If you follow an orderly plan, packing your storage unit isn’t that difficult. Here are some top tips.
Make a List
First and foremost, you must consider what you will store. There are two reasons for this. One, you will need to calculate about how much space you need. You don’t want to pay for more space than necessary, but you also don’t want a space that is too small. Make a list of what you will store. Then either consult with the staff at your prospective storage unit business or your moving company to get an expert option.
Consider What’s Worth Storing
The other reason you will need a list of items is so you can consider the value of your inventory versus the cost of storage. After all, it doesn’t make much sense to store a large $25 item for a year at a cost of many hundreds of dollars or more. Carefully consider the future use for all items you are storing and be sure they’re worth it. Of course, this doesn’t apply to items of great family or sentimental value. Try to sell or donate any unwanted items. They will just take up valuable space without being worth what it costs to store them.
Prepare the Unit
Next, get some clean cardboard, or better yet, wooden pallets, to line your storage room floor. This step will keep your items safe and clean. Do not store hazardous materials, such as gasoline, in your unit. Bring a sturdy stepladder and powerful flashlight and plan to leave them there. Even with lighting, those corners can get dark.
Think Up
Storage spaces are usually at least eight feet tall. You will need to utilize your vertical space as much as possible. Keep these thoughts in mind as well:
- Make use of all available space, such as dresser drawers.
- Make sure stored refrigerator doors are left slightly open. Mold can easily grow in a closed unused refrigerator.
- Purchase only two box sizes. These will be easy to stack.
- Wrap mirrors in blankets and stand upright.
- Figure out ways to make large items smaller, such as dismantling them and storing the pieces if possible.
- Don’t store items in plastic. It invites mildew.
- Use wardrobe boxes to store clothing. Use bubble wrap to protect fragile items before placing them in boxes.
- Clearly mark each box so that it can be easily read even from floor level.
Keep it Accessible
Arrange your items so that you have a center aisle at least a foot or two wide. You will likely need to retrieve items at some point, and you will need easy access to these items. An aisle will save you tons of time by eliminating the need to pull out boxes just to find something.
Make an Inventory
Last, make a comprehensive list of exactly what is in the unit. A little simple map would be a good idea, too.
For help stacking your storage unit, finding affordable storage in Miami, or packing your boxes, contact Cheap Movers Miami. We bring you the lowest rates on moving and storage services in the greater Miami area.