Many people have trouble knowing the correct way to pack luggage, let alone something bigger. A storage locker is much bigger, and often items are put in randomly, or haphazardly at best. This probably doesn’t matter much if one has only a few items to set in a storage locker. Those who usually rent a storage locker, or use one in the basement area of an apartment complex, generally have more than just a few casual items to pack inside. What does one need to consider when packing a storage unit?
The main consideration is eliminating damage to the items in the storage locker. Damage occurs when items break from falling, or being squeezed in too tightly in a storage unit. In addition, if a storage locker isn’t environmentally controlled to contain moisture, then items could be subjected to mold and mildew, or other types of moisture damage. Another aspect of packing a storage locker one needs to consider is being able to locate an item or items without wading through box after box, or pile upon pile. Knowing what is packed, and where it is, along with being able to reach it, results in less frustration and time wasted when retrieving items from a storage locker.
What can be done to address these issues? Knowing how to pack a storage locker begins with preparation and organization. And the first step is to try to make sure the storage locker is big enough. This may not be possible if the locker is one that comes with an apartment rental unit, but for those renting one at a storage center, there are almost always various sizes to choose from. If big, bulky items such as sofas or mattresses are to be stored, then measuring them first can help when trying to determine what size locker to rent.
For smaller items that will be packed in a storage locker, sturdy boxes, tissue paper, and labels are a must. Organize items such as books, cds, dvds, figurines, glassware, and other such articles. When packing books, line the boxes with plastic. This will prevent any possible moisture damage. Putting bay leaves inside the boxes will help to keep some insects away, important if boxes will be stored for some time in a storage locker. Fill boxes as much as possible; tissue or newspaper can be stuffed in to any empty spaces. A fully packed carton or box is less prone to collapse or get squashed if other boxes are placed on top. For very fragile items, wrapping them in towels will protect them. Make sure the boxes are not too heavy or bulky in size and shape to lift!
When using boxes or cartons, if possible, try to get all the same size – it will make stacking them easier, and they will be less likely to fall down when they are uniform in size. Label all boxes on all sides, and on top. Boxes containing fragile items need to be labeled as such. If possible, use a red marker to write “fragile” in large letters on all sides of the box.
When packing the storage unit itself, make sure to have a stepladder at hand. Also, packing tape and a screwdriver. Think small, by disassembling any large pieces of furniture to be stored, such as bed frames or dining room tables. This will go far in helping to maximize the available space. Place the hardware in a sealed, plastic bag and tape to the underside of the table or frame, so screws and such are not lost.
Large items go in first, as well as items that won’t be needed immediately. Try to keep a clear path from front to rear of the storage locker. Bookcases offer ready made shelves for storing boxes, as do the tops of dressers and chests of drawers. Make use of the drawers for packing items such as pictures or knickknacks. These can be cushioned with small blankets or towels. Remember to tape all drawers and small doors on furniture shut as a safety measure. Heaviest boxes go on the bottom, with those packed with lighter, more fragile items on top.
Cover large items with sheets or blankets to protect from dust. Items that will be needed immediately can be kept near the front of the storage locker. Use the step ladder to safely stack boxes up high. For clothing that needs to be stored, wardrobe boxes with a handing rod will keep the clothes clean and wrinkle-free, as well as ready to use if necessary.
By following these steps, and organizing well, a storage locker can be packed to avoid damaging items or hurting those packing it, and removing items later. In addition, it will be easier to find what is needed throughout the time these items are stored.
