Top 10 Packing Tips for Self Storage

Proper packing can save you money, maximize your storage space, and protect your belongings. Follow these expert tips to pack your storage unit like a pro.

1. Choose the Right Boxes

Invest in sturdy, uniform-sized boxes rather than using old grocery boxes. Standard moving boxes stack better, use vertical space efficiently, and protect your items. Small boxes for heavy items (books, tools), large boxes for light items (bedding, pillows).

2. Label Everything Clearly

Label all six sides of each box with contents and the room they came from. Use a thick marker and write clearly. Create a master inventory list with box numbers for easy reference when you need to find something later.

3. Disassemble Large Furniture

Take apart bed frames, tables, and shelving units. This saves significant space and makes items easier to move. Store hardware in labeled plastic bags and tape them to the corresponding furniture piece. Take photos during disassembly for easy reassembly later.

4. Use Vertical Space Wisely

Stack boxes with heaviest at the bottom and lightest on top. Leave aisles for access to items you might need. Store tall items like wardrobes and filing cabinets upright against walls to maximize floor space.

5. Protect Fragile Items

• Wrap dishes and glassware individually in packing paper or bubble wrap
• Use towels and linens as extra padding for fragile items
• Mark boxes containing fragile items on all sides
• Place fragile boxes on top of sturdier boxes, never underneath

6. Store Furniture the Right Way

Sofas and mattresses: Store upright on their long edge to save floor space. Use furniture covers or old sheets to protect from dust.

Tables and desks: Remove legs if possible. Stack chairs seat-to-seat to save space.

Appliances: Clean and dry thoroughly before storing. Leave doors slightly ajar to prevent mold and odors.

7. Create an Access Aisle

Leave a small walkway down the center of your unit so you can access items at the back. Place frequently needed items near the front. Seasonal items can go towards the back where they are harder to reach.

8. Use Uniform Box Sizes

Same-sized boxes stack more efficiently and create fewer gaps. This maximizes your vertical space and creates more stable stacks. Most storage facilities sell uniform boxes specifically designed for storage.

9. Protect Against Moisture and Pests

• Use plastic bins for items vulnerable to moisture (clothing, documents)
• Place pallets or boards under items to keep them off the floor
• Add silica gel packets or moisture absorbers to boxes
• Avoid storing food items that attract pests
• Use pest deterrents like cedar blocks or lavender sachets

10. Make a Storage Map

Draw a simple diagram of your unit showing where different categories of items are stored. Number your boxes and mark their locations on the map. Keep this map with your inventory list for quick reference.

Items That Need Special Care

Electronics

Use original boxes if possible. Wrap screens and monitors in soft cloth. Remove batteries from devices. Store electronics off the floor in a dry area.

Documents and Photos

Use waterproof plastic bins or file boxes. Consider scanning important documents as a backup. Store vertically to prevent bending or creasing.

Clothing

Use wardrobe boxes for hanging clothes to prevent wrinkles. Vacuum-seal out-of-season clothing to save space. Add moth balls or cedar blocks to prevent pests.

Common Packing Mistakes to Avoid

• Overpacking boxes - Heavy boxes are hard to lift and more likely to break
• Leaving empty spaces - Boxes with gaps can collapse when stacked
• Not cleaning items first - Dirt and food residue attract pests
• Storing items flat - Standing items on end often saves more space
• Forgetting to create inventory - You will forget what you stored within months