Packing Tips

Brought to you by Mini Warehouses of Columbia

The following information is provided to help you with your packing, moving and storage needs. (It is offered "as is' and no warranty of any kind, express or implied is offered and the entire risk as to the results and performance of the tips is assumed by the user.)

• Plan for access to your stored items. Place those items that you will need to get often in the moving vehicle first (so they will be stored in the front of the storage unit for easy access.)
• Allow space for walk-ways between stored items.
• Make an inventory of your stored items. Organize the inventory by room.
• Use uniform box sizes for easy stacking.
• Avoid putting too much in each box, especially if heavy.
• List the box contents on each side and number and identify the boxes by room.
• Seal boxes with tape.
• Stack lighter boxes on top.
• Use protective flooring material under all items that will promote air flow.
• Fragile items should be wrapped in packing paper or bubble-wrap and stacked on top.
• Electronic equipment is best stored in original boxes with adequate packing material.
• Drain all gasoline from, automobiles, lawn mowers, power tools, etc. before storing. It is against the law to store materials that are hazardous or combustible such as gasoline, solvents or paint.
• Pictures and mirrors should be packing in mirror crates, marked fragile and stacked on end.
• Furniture with drawers can be utilized to store china, silverware and other small items. Wrap items individually with packing packer or bubble-wrap.
• Larger appliances can be used to store blankets, towels and clothes.
• Tape appliance doors shut while moving.
• Tables with removable legs should be disassembled to save space.
• Sofas and loveseats can be stored on end to save space. Always place protective, waterproof flooring under such items and wrap cushions in plastic.
• Cover furniture with dust covers to protect against dust accumulation. Do not use plastic to cover items in non-climate controlled spaces as moisture can accumulate under it.
• Stand Mattresses on end to save space, but make sure they are stood up straight to prevent them from getting out of shape and lumpy.
• Do not use printed newspaper to pack valuables. The ink may smudge and stain items