Preparing Items For Storage

• Choose high-quality packing boxes that are about the same size. This will make stacking much easier.
• Label the contents on all sides of each box for easy reference.
• Keep boxes with books, documents, and clothing moisture-free by placing them on pallets rather than directly on the concrete floor.
• An under or overfilled box is more likely to collapse when stacked. If there is extra space in the carton, use low weight material such as plain newsprint or packing popcorn to fill in the extra volume.
• To keep dust out, completely seal boxes with packing tape.

TIP: Books, CDs and magazines are heavier than they look. Always use smaller boxes for these to keep the weight manageable.

TIP: Books can last in storage for years if they are packed flat to protect their spines and up off the ground to ensure they avoid moisture.

General Packing Tips

Spending a few extra moments while packing can save hours of frustration in the future.

• Clothing, blankets and draperies should be cleaned and stored on hangers in a wardrobe box.
• Moths love woollen goods. Dry clean your sweaters and carpets to make sure that there are no moth larvae hidden in the fibres.
• Books, CDs, records and tapes should be packed flat and placed in small manageable boxes.
• Because of their fragile nature, wall mirrors and pictures should have boxes of their own.
• Small pictures, mirrors, or other fragile items should be wrapped in paper or bubble wrap and placed in boxes with other small items.
• When storing mattresses and box springs, be sure to cover them with plastic.
• Make the most efficient use of your space by disassembling furniture (e.g. remove table legs) and wrapping it for protection against scratches and dents.
• Never over-pack boxes. The added weight could injure your back, and a burst box is no fun to pick up in the rain.
• Under-filled boxes tend to collapse under the weight of full ones.
• Heavy items should be packed in small boxes. They’re easier to lift, and will be less likely to break.
• Wrap glass items individually, nest cups and bowls, and stack plates/saucers/platters on edge instead of laying them flat.
• Clean and dry appliances before storage. Keep refrigerator or freezer doors slightly open.
• Motorcycles, cars, lawnmowers, and other machinery should be drained of all fluids prior to storing.