Storage and Packing Tips

Browse our list of packing or storage tips to make your move easier and faster.

Packing Tips


Graphic of two storage boxes filled with supplies.

Tip #1 Make packing easier by planning ahead Gather up plenty of sturdy, corrugated boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, sealing tape and marking pens, along with any furniture covers.

Tip #2 Seal boxes tightly with packing tape This will prevent dust from entering while in storage or transit.

Graphic of two taped moving boxes.
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Tip #3 Wrap furniture legs with protective bubble wrap, furniture covers or pads to prevent scratching. Leave slipcovers on upholstered chairs and cover them with plastic chair covers. Mark bed rail pieces for easier assembly later then tape or tie them together. Place covers or plastic bags on mattresses to keep them clean during storage.

Tip #4 Label boxes on all sides for easy identification Keep a list of their contents (as well as pictures and descriptions) at your home or office for reference. Clearly mark all boxes containing fragile items and make sure they are placed on top of heavier, less delicate boxes.

Graphic of a marker beside two taped moving boxes.
Graphic of open dresser drawers.

Tip #5 Use valuable space inside dresser drawers and larger appliances Empty spaces in stoves, refrigerators, and drawers are perfect places to store small items such as towels, linens, and small, fragile items. Secure items in drawers by filling empty spaces with towels or packing paper.

Tip #6 Use the same size boxes whenever possible for easier stacking Fill boxes tightly, but take care not to over- or under-pack (bulging boxes tip when stacked, while half full boxes tend to collapse). Use wadded up newsprint, bubble wrap, rags, towels, or blankets to fill in empty spaces. For maximum protection seal boxes with tape.

Graphic of a group of taped moving boxes.
Graphic of a box filled with tools.

Tip #7 Pack heavy items like books and tools in small boxes For easier handling limit the weight of all boxes, regardless of size, to 30lbs. or less.

Tip #8 Clean and dry appliances before storing Secure or wedge all movable parts and wrap padding around each item for protection. During transport, tape all doors shut but remember to wedge them open for storage.

Graphic of cleaning supplies.
Graphic of books in a moving box.

Tip #9 Pack books flat to protect their spines Line boxes with plastic and fill empty spaces with packing paper.

Tip #10 Use plenty of paper to pack dishes and glassware Place a layer of packing paper along the top and bottom of boxes. Wrap each dish and glass separately and cushion them with crumpled paper. Plates are best stacked on edge.

Graphic of wine glasses in a moving box.
Graphic of shirts hanging in a moving box.

Tip #11 Hang clothes and draperies in wardrobe boxes These specialized boxes will save you hours of ironing when you arrive at your new home.

Tip #12 Pack lamps and lampshades in individual boxes Use plenty of clean paper or clothing for padding.

Graphic of three lamps with varying heights.
Graphic of a picture frame in a moving box.

Tip #13 Pad mirrors and paintings with paper Avoid newsprint as the ink could transfer to your artwork. Place them in special mirror packs or large boxes and label the packaging accordingly.

Storage Tips


Graphic of boxes stored in a storage unit.

Tip #1 Store items you'll need most often at the front of the unit.

Tip #2 When you pack your storage unit, create a center aisle for access to all items.

Graphic of boxes stored in a storage unit.
Graphic of boxes stored on pallets in a storage unit.

Tip #3 Do not place boxes directly on concrete floors. Use pallets or skids to allow air flow around and under items.

Tip #4 If you're storing tables and other furniture, remove the legs. To save space, store tabletops and sofas on end.

Graphic of a table.
Graphic of a picture frame.

Tip #5 Old photographs tend to curl over time. To keep them flat place them between two pieces of cardboard and tape the cardboard together

Tip #6 Drain gasoline and oil from lawn mowers and other items with small engines.

Graphic of a lawn mower and gas tank.
Graphic of a cancelled icon.

Tip #7 State law determines what may be stored. You alone control access to your storage space. We prohibit the storage of firearms, illicit drugs or drug paraphernalia, live animals, perishables, liquids, explosives, flammable liquids and fuels and toxic materials.

Tip #8 Use trash cans to store shovels, hoes, rakes and other items with long handles.

Graphic of shovels in a bucket.
Graphic of stacked boxes.

Tip #9 Mattresses should be covered and stored flat on level surfaces.

Tip #10 Use protective covers and treat wood surfaces before storing.

Graphic of a clean table.
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Tip #11 To prevent rust wipe all metal surfaces with a rag containing a few drops of machine oil.

Tip #12 Pack blankets, draperies, and dress clothes on the hanger in a wardrobe box.

Graphic of shirts hanging in a moving box.
Graphic of storage unit locks.

Tip #13 Always use high quality locks on your unit. Locks are available for sale—just ask your site manager for a recommendation.

Tip #14 Items sensitive to humidity should always be stored in a climate controlled unit.

Graphic of raindrops.
Graphic of a table stacked on top of a dresser.

Tip #15 Whenever possible, place dressers and tables top-to-top to save space.