How to Prepare Items for Storage

When it comes time to move your items into storage, there are some specific things you can do that will make a huge difference, we will show you how to prepare items for storage. Planning ahead can help you avoid headache and aggravation down the road and can make it so much easier to remove items when needed. Here’s some ideas we’ve picked up over the years:

Related: Tips for Downsizing

Dishes

·      Protect your dishes by using special dish packing boxes.

·      Wrap each glass, dish, and cup in its own packing paper or bubble wrap – you might also use socks for glasses.

·      Plates and bowls should also be wrapped individually and stacked in boxes on their sides.

·      Be sure to use plenty of cushioning at the bottom of boxes containing dishes or glasses.

·      Mark boxes clearly with “fragile†and be sure to stack these boxes at the top of your storage unit.

Furniture

·      Take the time to wrap big pieces of furniture such as sofas and loveseats with plastic or blankets.  This will keep them clean and make them easier to move.

·      Stack chairs seat to seat and be sure to put a piece of cloth or paper in between the cushions.

·      Be sure to cover other valuable furniture carefully with plastic or blankets.

·      Store couches on end if possible to conserve space.

·      Separate the legs of a table from the table when possible to save space.  Wrap each leg in paper, plastic or a towel.

·      Put all hardware (such as nuts, bolts, screws) into a plastic bag and tape the bag to the piece of furniture it belongs to.

Books, Files, Documents

·      Careful not to overload boxes with books – you don’t want them to be too heavy.

·      Use file storage boxes and hanging folders for documents.

·      Be sure to label boxes accurately.

Appliances and Electronics

·      First be sure that all appliances are clean and dry before storing – they can be ruined when stored with even the smallest amount of moisture inside.

·      When possible, store electronics in original packaging.

·      Leave refrigerator door open slightly for circulation.

Related: Why You Need Climate Controlled Storage

Other Items

·      Be sure that when filling a box, you fill it completely so it doesn’t collapse.

·      Use empty spaces between chairs and in the tops of dressers to store small items.

·      Mattresses should be wrapped in plastic and stored on their sides.

·      When storing metal items, run a few drops of oil on them to prevent rusting.

·      Artwork and mirrors should be carefully wrapped in plastic or packing paper and then placed in heavy duty cardboard boxes.

Be sure to give us a call at Jones Moving & Storage if you have any questions regarding specific items.  We’ve been in the moving and storing business for years and know a thing or two about prepping for storage.