How to Prepare Your Belongings for Storage

Published: June 01, 2024

Whether moving to a new home, downsizing your living space, or simply in need of some extra space, preparing your items for storage is essential to keep them safe and well-maintained. Proper preparation not only ensures that your belongings remain in good condition while in storage but also makes the process of packing and unpacking more efficient. Here’s how to prepare your items for storage effectively.

Assess Your Storage Needs

Before you start packing, assess your needs. Determine the size of the storage container you will need based on the quantity and dimensions of your items. Consider factors such as climate control, security features, and accessibility when choosing a storage facility.

Declutter and Organize

Take the opportunity to declutter and organize your belongings before packing them for storage. Sort through your items and separate them into categories: keep, donate/sell, and discard. This will reduce the number of items you need to store.

Clean and Prepare Your Belongings

Before packing, thoroughly clean and prepare your items. Dust and dirt can attract pests and cause damage over time, so make sure to wipe down surfaces and vacuum upholstered furniture. For clothing and linens, wash and dry them before packing to prevent odors and mildew.

Gather Packing Supplies

To pack your items securely, gather the necessary packing supplies:

• Sturdy cardboard boxes or plastic bins in various sizes
• Packing tape
• Bubble wrap or packing paper
• Furniture covers or blankets
• Labels and markers for labeling boxes

Having the right packing supplies on hand will make the process smoother and help protect your items.

Pack Strategically

When packing your items, follow these guidelines to ensure they remain safe and well-organized:

• Place heavier items at the bottom of boxes and lighter items on top to prevent crushing.
• Fill empty spaces with packing material, such as bubble wrap or packing peanuts, to prevent shifting.
• Use bubble wrap or packing paper to cushion fragile items, such as glassware or electronics.
• Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to for easy identification when unpacking.
• For furniture and large items, disassemble them if possible to save space and protect against damage. 
• Wrap furniture in blankets or use furniture covers to shield them from dust and scratches.

Consider Climate Control

If you’re storing items that are sensitive to temperature and humidity fluctuations, such as electronics, artwork, or wooden furniture, consider using UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of New Orleans & The Gulf Coast’s climate-controlled storage facility. The facility regulates temperature and humidity levels, providing optimal conditions to preserve your belongings.

Create an Inventory

Before putting your items in storage, create an inventory list of everything you’re storing. Include detailed descriptions and photographs of each item, as well as its condition. This will help you keep track of your belongings and make it easier to locate specific items when needed.

Properly Seal and Secure

Once everything is packed and ready to go, securely seal boxes with packing tape to prevent dust and pests from getting inside. Use sturdy locks on your storage container to ensure the security of your belongings.

Arrange Items Strategically

When loading your storage container, place frequently accessed items near the front for easy retrieval. Stack boxes and furniture vertically to maximize space and ensure stability. Leave aisles between stacks of boxes for easy access to items at the back of the container.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your items are properly prepared for storage, keeping them safe and well-maintained until you’re ready to retrieve them. With careful planning, you can make the process of storing your belongings as smooth as possible.

To rent a portable storage container, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of New Orleans & The Gulf Coast or call (985) 401-8648.