Moving out and need to pack your things up as the big day nears? Or are you just in need of a temporary space to stash your possessions while renovating your home?
No matter what the reason is, we all know how stressful it can be to face the chaotic world of packing especially when you’re a self-proclaimed unorganized person. Most of the time, people find themselves ending up confused or left with lack of space to store the rest of their items. Being wary of how some items may also be damaged adds to the stress, as you can’t always ensure that they have enough protection.
That being said, it’s always beneficial to have the right knowledge on how to pack your portable storage unit. Here, we’ll give you some tips to help make your packing experience quick, safe, and overall a lot more bearable.
A portable storage unit is essentially a large, weather-resistant container designed to store and transport personal belongings, furniture, and other items.
But what makes it stand out? It comes right to your doorstep.
No more trekking across town to a storage facility—you get to load it up on your own time, right in your driveway. Once you’re done packing, you can choose to keep it close for easy access or have it transported to a secure spot until you need it again.
These portable storage units come in different sizes, so whether you’re simply sprucing up a room or moving your entire home, there’s a size that fits your needs. Built tough with materials like steel or aluminum, they’re made to handle whatever Mother Nature throws at them, keeping your stuff safe and sound.
Most of these containers also come with heavy-duty locks, giving you peace of mind that your belongings are secure. Some companies even offer climate-controlled options—perfect for those items that need a little extra care, like electronics or antiques.
The beauty of portable storage units lies in their flexibility. They’ve become a go-to choice for many because they simplify the whole moving and storage process. No need to rent a truck or stress about timelines!
The key to have an effective organization process in packing your portable storage unit lies in the plans you had ahead of time and following the best practices in doing it. This isn’t only just about fitting a bunch of your stuff in a small space, but also ensuring that they are safe, secured, accessible, and placed correctly and in an efficient way.
Here are 8 tips to help you on how to pack your portable storage unit like a pro:
If you need to pack sensitive or fragile items such as plates, mirrors, or gadgets, wrapping them in newspapers or old clothes won’t be enough. Using bubble wrap is always a great route to go to, as each item will be able to have cushion that will ensure its safety—diminishing your worries about damage once the portable container is on the move.
It’s easy to overlook those small gaps between your items when packing, but these spaces can cause trouble if left unfilled. Items can shift around during transport, leading to scratches, dents, or even breakage.
This is where soft materials like blankets, towels, or unused clothes come in handy—they can act as cushions that provide an extra layer of protection. By filling those gaps, you reduce the risk of damage and ensure your items remain in the same condition as when you packed them.
One of the most common mistakes is forgetting to make the most out of the storage spaces you already have. Cabinets, suitcases, and drawers shouldn’t be packed empty. Leaving them unused inside your storage unit is a waste of valuable space.
Instead, fill these spaces with smaller items like books, clothes, or any other belongings that can be difficult to pack in standard boxes. Remember, every nook and cranny has a purpose, so make sure nothing goes to waste!
Don’t cut corners when it comes to packing supplies. Investing in good-quality materials like sturdy boxes, reliable packing tapes, and waterproof markers is an investment in the safety of your belongings. Cheap supplies may save you money upfront, but they can lead to costly damages later on. Sometimes, spending a little more is worth it in the long run.
Packing isn’t just about fitting everything in; it’s about doing it in a way that keeps your items safe. Placing heavier items at the bottom of your storage unit is a basic rule that often gets overlooked. If heavier items are stacked on top of lighter ones, it can cause the stack to become unstable or even crush the items below. This can compromise the stability of the entire stack and make it difficult to access your belongings later.
Strategic packing isn’t just about what you pack but where you place it in the portable storage unit. Items you’ll need to access frequently should be packed towards the front, while those you rarely use can go in the back. With this strategy, you can grab what you need quickly and easily, keeping the rest of your storage unit organized and intact.
It might seem like a small task, but clear labeling can make a huge difference when it’s time to unpack. Use a bold marker and ensure your labels are easy to read, even from a distance. Don’t just write what’s inside the box; also include where it belongs, like “Kitchen” or “Bedroom.” This simple step will save you a lot of time and confusion when it comes to unpacking and organizing your new space.
When it comes to choosing the right-sized portable storage unit, it’s crucial to match your needs with the right amount of space. A standard Big Box, with dimensions of 8′ x 5′ x 7′ (L x W x H exterior), is designed to accommodate the contents of a typical room.
If you’re dealing with a studio apartment, one Big Box should suffice. However, as the number of rooms increases, so does the need for more containers. For instance, a one-bedroom apartment usually requires two Big Boxes, while a two-bedroom setup might need three. For larger homes, like those with four or five bedrooms, you might need up to six or eight Big Boxes, respectively.
If you have more items than average, it’s a good idea to add an extra Big Box to ensure everything fits comfortably without cramming.
Packing up your belongings doesn’t have to be a stressful ordeal.
With the right approach, knowing how to pack your portable storage unit can make the process smooth and efficient. By following these tips, you’ll not only maximize the space in your storage unit but also ensure that your items are safe and easy to access when you need them.
Whether you’re preparing for a big move or simply need a place to store your things temporarily, these strategies will help you pack like a pro, giving you peace of mind throughout the entire process.
Big Box takes the stress out of storage by delivering your container right to your door. Load it at your convenience, and choose to keep it on-site or store it securely with us. Ready to make storage simple? Visit Big Box today to learn more and schedule your delivery. Let us turn your next move or project into a seamless experience
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