How to pack a self storage unit

• Photograph your items. This will help ensure you have a record of what you are storing and proof of their condition at the time of packing in the event you need evidence for an insurance claim if you use a removal company or in the unlikely event of something happening to your goods in storage.
• Choose your boxes or containers. We strongly recommend using double walled cardboard boxes that are uniform in size or if you are using plastic containers ensuring they are durable with strong lids. When boxes are packed for long periods of time, cheap cardboard boxes can weaken leading to the walls collapsing.
• Pack your items. If you are packing books or heavy items try not to overpack the box or container. Fragile items should be well wrapped in paper and bubble wrap. This handy packing video below provides some useful tips. Avoid fully packing a box to the top with fragile items. Leave space at the top in case the box was to collapse. Lastly, seal the box correctly and use fragile tape to clearly mark boxes with fragile items.

• Label your boxes and and create an inventory. Clearly label all your boxes and create an accurate inventory. This will help when you need to get items from your storage unit and also provides an accurate record for your insurance. Using different colour stickers or tape on boxes can also be helpful when moving out and putting boxes in the correct room.
• Dismantle furniture. Make sure you dismantle furniture before you bring it to the storage facility. This will save a lot of time when you arrive. Use a small bag to tape all the nuts and bolts to each dismantled item so that they don't get lost!
• Arriving at the storage unit. When you get to your storage unit, lay down a ground sheet or ideally pallets to keep the goods off the ground. Raising the items off the ground helps the air circulation.
• Packing the storage unit. Place your bulky and heavy items at the back of the unit. Store sofas and mattresses on their sides and cover them to prevent dust. Chairs should be stacked cushion to cushion or separated with a blanket to avoid scratches.
  • Now you need to maximise your tetris skills and fill the gaps with smaller items. Remember, heavy items on the bottom and fragile and light items stacked on top.

  • The items that you need access to should be at the front of the unit. Please do not over stack your unit! Unsafe stacking could fall on you when opening the door.

• Shelving and aisles. If you plan on being in storage for a long period of time or you are using your unit for extra space then consider using shelving to properly organise your unit. Alternatively, you can create aisles in your unit to access it more easily. If you decide you need a larger unit to do this we can always assist with this.
• What can’t I store? When you book your unit you will be provided a list of items that are prohibited, please check this thoroughly as it is for your safety and it will be a requirement of insurance.
• Secure the unit. Make sure your unit is safely secured with a padlock or electronic lock.
  

Packing your storage unit isn't difficult and hopefully these helpful tips will make your move-in easier. If you need any further advice, our friendly team is always on hand to answer any questions you might have.