Moving to a new house can be stressful, but at the same time fun; you pack your boxes, mark them up for the rooms they’re going to, and usually you’re unpacking them a short time later. When you’re packing for storage the process is a little different.
General tips for packing for storage
- Ensure no food is packed so you don’t invite any unwanted creatures into your unit.
- If you are storing a fridge or washing machine, make sure they are drained, washed out and dry.
- Any fabric should be protected from dust, moisture and pests. Talk to our team of removalists on the Gold Coast and see what protective cover is best suited to your furniture.
- Remove any batteries from products to ensure they don’t leak and ruin your belongings.
- Drain all fuel and oil from your gardening equipment.
- Label every box so you can quickly and easily identify what is in each. If you can have an itemised list of everything in each box, all the better.
- To maximise your space, we suggest you use a storage system with the same size boxes so boxes can be stacked neatly.
Get rid of junk
The first thing to do is a big clean out, there is no use moving items to storage that you may never use again.
Go through your belongings and if you haven’t used it in some time, they hold no financial or sentimental value, make the decision to throw it or sell it.
Get a priority box. This is a box that all the screws, remote controls and important loose items go in.
Create storage inventory
Document what you’ve packed to put into storage.
A detailed list of everything in each box means you can easily locate an item if needed, and it’s also a convenient way to keep the goods documented for insurance purposes.
Keep one copy of the items in the priority box and another digital copy if possible.
Buy lots of containers
Don’t skimp on your storage containers.
When buying boxes or plastic containers ensure they are fit for the purpose.
Our removalists can assist with packing and unpacking, so we’re used to packing for a house, office, and for a move to storage.
A strong plastic bin can be useful for storing family photos and keepsakes.
When buying the same boxes in small, medium and large means you can stack a lot easier, instead of a vast array of boxes from a number of places.
Check the facility rules
Always check with your storage facilities for any restrictions on what you can and can’t pack, usually there is a pretty good reason for the rules, and it’s advised to follow the guidelines.
Keep storage clean
Avoid mould, mildew and yucky smells by ensuring all products you place in storage are dry, clean, and wrapped properly.
Compress your clothes
Porta robes are a great way to store clothes but using vacuum bags for more bulky items can be a great space saver.
Storing furniture
When packing furniture for storage you need to make sure it is protected from dust and dirt.
Furniture that can be dismantled should be taken apart and all screws or bolts placed in a plastic bag that is clearly labelled and placed in the priority box.
Prepare your appliances
When storing appliances, ensure the fridge and freezer are fully defrosted and wiped dry to avoid mildew.
Ensure your washing machine is completely empty and dried, and all other appliances are wrapped in moving blankets to protect them from dust and potential damage.
Remove all batteries
Always remember when packing kids’ toys, electronics, remotes, and anything with a battery, to remove the batteries for storage.
Use original packaging
If you have the original packaging for your electronics, always use them, they will be the best way to protect such things as a TV for example.
If you don’t have the manufacturers box, buy a box that’s close to the size and fill with packaging materials to safeguard it.
Label boxes clearly
Always label boxes well, especially if the items are fragile, that way they can be easily identified and stored on top.
Labelling your boxes properly, as well as keeping a detailed inventory can save you a lot of time and effort when you need to locate anything.
Conclusion
A Smooth Move Removals on the Gold Coast are seasoned removalists, so whether you need our assistance in packing and unpacking, or you just need assistance moving, we are always on-hand to give helpful advice and handy tips for packing. Just call A Smooth Move Removals, for all home removals on the Gold Coast, and from Tweed Heads to the Sunshine Coast.