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Packing your items for a self storage unit doesn't have to be a daunting task. Don't let the stress of packing get to you. With early planning, you'll be sure to experience a carefree move. The below outlines some useful packing tips that can help you save money, time, and your possessions.

Start Early. Planning to Pack your Items for a Self Storage Facility

To ensure you are using the right sized storage unit, self storage facilities recommend starting as early as possible with the packing process. Use this time to sort through, separate, and organize everything you want to keep and store. Before you start packing, make sure you have tossed anything you no longer want or need.

Another step in the planning process is organizing and inventorying your packing supplies. If you have not done so already, make sure you have purchased all of your packing supplies. You'll need the following materials: durable boxes, packing tape, markers, bubble wrap, and a lock. If you don't have these items currently, you'll be able to purchase them at the self storage facility.

Packing for a Self Storage Unit:

Now that you have all of your packing supplies, you should be constructing boxes, stacking newspaper and fitting furniture with covers. Self storage facilities recommend starting with one room at a time so you don't get burned out. At this point you can start preparing the following:

- Disassemble anything you can. This helps save space.
- Label every box with its contents, the date and the room it came from.
- Mark boxes with breakables as "fragile."
- Use bubble wrap and/or newspaper to wrap fragile items.
- Put Styrofoam peanuts in boxes before you put in your breakables.
- Placing smaller boxes in larger boxes. This will help you make fewer trips.
- Remove wheels from everything with wheels to save on space.
- Tape nuts and bolts to the piece of furniture it belongs to. This will help you say better organized.
- Mark heavier boxes with their weight to avoid injury.
- Make sure all boxes are completely sealed.
- Pack a separate "emergency" box with things you'll need during the move.

Moving Your Items to a Self Storage Company

Now that you have completed the packing process, now is the time for you to start moving your belongings to the self storage company. Moving your items into a self storage unit does not have to be tricky. You want to make sure you fill your space safely and to its capacity. The following tips can help you safely and efficiently pack a self storage unit:
- Use hand carts (two wheelers) to move. This will save your back.

- Avoid using plastic garbage bags as a storage container. Plastic bags can promote mildew.
- Store longer items vertically.
- Store glass and mirrors between mattresses. This will cushion and protect the mirrors.
- Place heavier items to the bottom and smaller and lighter things on top.
- Start moving items to the back of the unit. Utilize the front area for odd shaped objects.
- Stack chairs on top of each other when possible.
- Group similar items together, keep room specific boxes together when possible.

Many people find that packing their things strategically helps them find items when needed and without confusion. If you need additional help moving your items into your unit, a self storage company can provide additional help.

Self Storage Next Steps:

The tips provided will help you move your items into a self storage unit. Whether you intend to keep your items in self storage for the long term, or for a short time, using these hints will help ensure your items stay organized and you'll find easier access to your items when you need them.