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HOW TO PACK BOXES FOR YOUR STORAGE UNIT
February 6, 2018
The easiest way to store small items is to place them in boxes inside your storage unit. However, properly packing a box in a way that protects items from damage is not as straightforward as it might seem. Rather than just tossing items into boxes and hoping for the best, follow this guide to properly pack boxes for storage.
PACK HEAVY THINGS IN SMALLER BOXES
Instead of buying all boxes in the same size, purchase several different sizes of boxes. This way, you can put really heavy items, like books and plates, in the smaller boxes - making them easier to lift and stack. Lightweight items, like clothing and pillows, belong in larger boxes, which you can fill to the brim with these items without making them too heavy.
Even if you have the strength of Superman, you won't regret following this rule. If you have friends help you move, then they'll appreciate that your boxes aren't too heavy. They also won't be as likely to drop them. And your own back and arms won't be as tired after a long day of filling your storage unit.
PLACE THE HEAVIEST ITEMS IN THE BOX FIRST
Also, keep the weight of items in mind when packing an individual box. If items of varying weight are going into that box, always place the heaviest items in the box first. This keeps lighter items from being crushed. It also keeps the box from feeling top-heavy and tough to carry. A box packed heaviest to lightest is less likely to fall off a stack of boxes while in storage.
TAPE YOUR BOXES SHUT
Folding one flap under the other is not a safe or effective way to close boxes that you're placing in storage for any amount of time. Moisture can easily enter a box that is folded rather than taped. Additionally, a folded-over box is bumpy on top, which causes any boxes that are stacked on top of it to slide. For added security, tape your boxes closed - rather than folding them.
The best tape to use for this purpose is the packing or shipping tape you would put on a package being sent through the mail. For really heavy boxes, you may want to use duct tape on the bottom for some added strength. Masking tape is likely to rip, and electrical tape is not sticky enough to keep the box closed - so avoid these options.
BE THOROUGH IN YOUR LABELING
Instead of just labeling your boxes on one side, label them on the top and on two adjacent sides. This way, when you arrive at the storage unit, you can stack the boxes in the most convenient way - without worrying about whether or not the label will be visible.
Also, remember to be specific in your labeling. For instance, don't just write "bedroom" on a box. Write "sheets, night light, pillow" instead. You'll be thankful you didn't skip this step when it comes time to retrieve items from storage and unpack.
DON'T LEAVE EMPTY SPACE
If you run out of items to pack in a box, do not just close the box with empty space left in the top. If you stack another box on top of that one, the empty space may collapse inward - causing an entire stack of boxes to slide down. Fill the empty space with tissue paper, crumpled newspaper, or a spare towel or sheet.
With the tips above, your safe and secure boxes will be properly prepared for their time in storage. If you need packing supplies or are searching for a good storage facility in the Oakdale area, contact Oakdale Self Storage
to learn more about our services.
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