Whether you need self storage solutions for a short space of time or the long haul, packing your possessions in the correct fashion is absolutely vital. Otherwise, when you move those items into the new home or office, you will face the inevitable headaches of either misplacing items or finding that key items have become damaged.

This is a crucial part of moving, and requires a significant investment of time and effort. Breaking down your possessions into categories is vital. Here’s how to do it in style.

Appliances

When packing appliances, be sure to:

  • Clean the interior aspects of the appliance first as food particles can attract critters while grime will often grow into mould over the coming weeks.
  • Drain off water from hoses, pipes, and similar features.
  • Find a self-storage facility that offers climate-controlled spaces to prevent mould, humidity, or overheating conditions.
  • Wrap cables and cords, placing them inside the appliance where possible.
  • Ensure that all appliances are positioned the right way up, against walls, and with enough room around them to air at the front by leaving the doors slightly ajar.

Furniture

When packing furniture, be sure to:

  • Invest in pallets or plastic floor sheets to ensure that any furniture locked in the storage facility will be suitably protected from flooding and floor moisture.
  • Apply wax to wooden furniture and lacquer to bronze and copper.
  • Clean fabrics on the furniture before putting them into storage. Invest in furniture covers to keep the fabrics protected in storage.
  • Cover wooden surfaces with bubble wrap or other forms of protection.
  • Place tables and furniture the right way up to avoid surface scratches and damage. Use drawers to store smaller items and valuables.

Files & Miscellaneous

When packing crucial files or small valuable items, be sure to:

  • Place documents in airtight boxes to avoid moisture damage and be sure to label all containers in a clear manner that encourages easy access.
  • Use a filing cabinet for archived files that may not be needed very often.
  • Wrap small valuables and ornaments in bubble wrap and similar packaging goods before transporting them to larger boxes.
  • Use safes and extra security for particularly valuable possessions.
  • Create a floor barrier with pallets to protect the items from becoming water damaged while also leaving walkways to promote easy access through the storage unit

Vehicles

If you need to store a vehicle for any length of time, be sure to:

  • Choose climate-controlled storage to help prevent rust on the various metal components of the vehicle and fill the tank with some petrol/diesel to stop internal rust.
  • Use a tyre jack to remove strain from the tyres and prevent flattening.
  • Disconnect the battery to stop any potential leakage, which will preserve the battery and protect the car itself in one fell swoop.
  • Invest in a car cover jacket to prevent the bodywork from dust accumulation.
  • Change the oil to stop the threat of dirty oil becoming too thick for the car to start once the vehicle is needed once more.