Packing tips for placing items in storage

Packing tips for placing items in storage

Packing is important, whether when moving your items to your new home when relocating or putting them into storage because your current abode is just too full of possessions.  Packing needs to be done in the correct manner in order to make it simpler to locate your items at a later time and to avoid any damage being sustained during the move or while in storage.  Thinking ahead and careful packing are therefore vital, and you will need to take a number of sensible precautions.  When the time comes that you need to have access to some of your belongings, you want to be able to find them without having to move and open piles of boxes that have no identification on them.

There are a number of guidelines that you should take into consideration as you begin the process of packing your items ready to put into storage.  One good tip is to make use of boxes that are the same size whenever you can, as this makes it easier for them to be stacked on top of one another.  Items should not be placed in storage in plastic bags, as these can trap moisture and are obviously considerably less sturdy than boxes.  Each box should be completely filled in order to prevent the sides or the top from crushing.  If a box has been filled with loose or strangely-shaped items, such as toys or glassware, any open spaces should be filled with bubble wrap, crumpled paper or some other form of packing material.

It is a bad idea to overfill boxes, as this is likely to result in them bursting; nor should you fill the boxes with so many heavy items that the box is extremely difficult to move.  Big boxes should be filled with relatively lightweight items, while heavier goods should be put into storage in smaller boxes.  Make sure that you use the right kind of packing crate or box; for example, it is a good idea to pack your books in a heavy duty box.  These are far more unlikely to break than smaller ones, although you will still have to make sure that you do not overfill.  Cell kits are likely to be best when it comes to items such as knickknacks or stemware, while wardrobe boxes enable you to hang up fabrics and clothing while in storage.

Books should be stacked and not stood on end, as this can cause damage to the spines.  Plates, on the other hand, should be stacked on end, with each dish individually wrapped and items of the same size placed together.  Cups should be wrapped individually and placed together in a nest.  Framed art should be covered with bubble wrap, and it might be a good idea to visit your local packing supply store and see if you can get hold of protective plastic or cardboard corners.  Glass-covered art and mirrors should be covered with criss-crossing masking tape.

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