General Packing, Storage, and Moving Tips

  • Don’t make boxes too heavy.  It’s better to use slightly smaller boxes and pack with balanced weighted items so that moving is quicker and will only require one person per box.
  • Clearly Identify boxes ahead of time.  Using pre-made labels may speed this process up.
  • Try to avoid using plastic bags as much as possible.  Plastic bags can capture moisture and possibly destroy items.
  • Make sure your boxes are evenly weighted and packed to avoid sides opening and leaving items open for damage.
  • Don’t stand your books on their spines as this can cause damage.  Instead – stack them vertically.
  • Using masking tape across the face of mirrors and glass covered art and photos, especially large ones, prevents them from shattering.
  • Be sure to launder and clean all linens such as clothing, towels, drapes, etc. before packing to prevent germs, dirt, and mold.
  • Before storing items made of leather, take time to treat the leather with the special condition solution made for that leather piece.  Leather pieces of furniture often include the leather treatment with purchase.  If not, contact the manufacturer to find the preferred solution for your leather.
  • Dissemble beds, tables, etc. that are made to be taken a part.  Those pieces will travel better if packed this way.
  • When you choose your storage unit, factor in slightly more size than you think you will need.  This will make sure to give you some wiggle room in case you forget items and will allow you to walk through the unit to access items instead of being forced to remove everything in your unit simply to get to one item in the back.
  • Decide if you need a drive-up unit and other factors when you pick your unit.  Access may end up being as important as size depending on what and how you’re storing your items.
  • Think through the type of items you are packing and/or storing.  If it sensitive materials such as documents, electronics, medicine, and other items that are sensitive to heat or cold, you may want to consider climate control storage.  Climate controlled storage units have heating and cooling to control the indoor unit’s climate to ensure the optimal temperature for climate-sensitive items.
  • Cover your furniture and other appropriate items with tarps to prevent possible leaks or dirt from corrupting them.
  • Wrap dishes and cups individual with bubble wrap or newspaper before putting them in boxes.  This will keep your box secure and prevent items from moving around or breaking.
  • Arrange your packing so that boxes with fragile items are on top. This will prevent crushing and breaking.

To get help with your moving storage, call Keylock Storage at (866) 993-2688 or go to keylockstorage.com to the unit section.

The advice on this website is provided as a courtesy for informational purposes only. "Storage Tips" are offered as-is and no warranty is expressed or implied. For more information, see Keylock Storage’s Terms and Conditions.