Portable Storage Container Packing: The Dos and Don’ts

Portable Storage Container Packing: The Dos and Don’ts

Are you looking for portable storage packing help? If so, you’ve come to the right place! With our guide, learn what you should and should not do as you pack for your next move!

Portable storage containers offer a convenient solution for moving, decluttering, or storing belongings. However, packing these containers efficiently requires careful planning and organization. In this guide, we’ll explore the dos and don’ts of packing portable storage containers to ensure a seamless and stress-free experience.

The Dos of Packing Portable Storage Containers

1. Do Plan Ahead

Before you start packing, create a plan outlining which items will go into the storage container and how they will be organized. Consider the order in which items will be unpacked at your destination to make the process more efficient.

2. Do Use Quality Packing Materials

Invest in high-quality packing materials to protect your belongings during transit. This includes sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and packing tape. Proper packing materials help prevent damage and ensure that your items arrive at their destination safely.

3. Do Label Boxes Clearly

Label each box with its contents and the room it belongs to. This makes it easier to locate specific items when unpacking. Consider color-coding boxes for different rooms to streamline the unpacking process further.

4. Do Pack Heavy Items at the Bottom

Place heavier items at the bottom of the storage container to distribute weight evenly. This prevents boxes from becoming unstable and toppling over during transit. Be sure to pack heavy items tightly to minimize shifting during transportation.

5. Do Utilize Vertical Space

Make the most of the vertical space in the storage container by stacking boxes and furniture vertically. Use sturdy straps or tie-downs to secure items in place and prevent them from shifting during transit. This maximizes the available space and allows you to fit more items into the container.

6. Do Disassemble Furniture

Whenever possible, disassemble furniture to save space and prevent damage. Remove legs from tables and sofas, take apart bed frames, and dismantle large items that won’t fit through the door of the container. Keep all hardware and assembly instructions together in a labeled bag for easy reassembly.

7. Do Protect Fragile Items

Wrap fragile items such as glassware, dishes, and electronics in bubble wrap or packing paper to protect them during transit. Place these items in sturdy boxes and fill any empty space with packing material to prevent shifting. Label boxes containing fragile items as “fragile” to ensure they receive extra care during handling.

8. Do Pack Essential Items Last

Pack essential items that you’ll need immediately upon arrival at your destination last. This includes toiletries, a change of clothes, important documents, and any other necessities. Keep these items easily accessible so you can retrieve them as soon as you unload the container.

The Don’ts of Packing Portable Storage Containers

1. Don’t Overpack Boxes

Avoid overpacking boxes to the point where they become too heavy or bulging. Overpacked boxes are more likely to break or collapse during transit, leading to damage to your belongings. Instead, distribute items evenly among boxes and use additional boxes if necessary.

2. Don’t Leave Empty Spaces

Fill any empty spaces in boxes with packing material to prevent items from shifting during transit. Empty spaces can lead to items becoming damaged or broken as they move around inside the container. Use packing peanuts, bubble wrap, or crumpled packing paper to fill voids effectively.

3. Don’t Forget to Secure Items

Ensure that all items are securely packed and fastened inside the storage container. Use straps, tie-downs, or bungee cords to secure heavy items and furniture in place. This prevents items from shifting during transit and reduces the risk of damage to your belongings.

4. Don’t Neglect to Protect Furniture

Wrap furniture in moving blankets or furniture pads to protect it from scratches, dents, and other damage. Secure blankets with plastic wrap or tape to keep them in place during transit. Take extra care with fragile or valuable pieces to ensure they arrive at their destination unharmed.

5. Don’t Pack Hazardous Materials

Avoid packing hazardous materials such as flammable liquids, explosives, or corrosive chemicals in portable storage containers. These items pose a safety risk and are prohibited by most moving companies. Dispose of hazardous materials properly or make alternative arrangements for their transportation.

6. Don’t Rush the Packing Process

Take your time when packing portable storage containers to ensure that items are packed safely and securely. Rushing the packing process increases the risk of damage to your belongings and can lead to unnecessary stress. Start packing well in advance of your move date to allow ample time for thorough packing and organization.

7. Don’t Forget to Insure Your Belongings

Consider purchasing insurance for your belongings to protect them against loss or damage during transit. Most moving companies offer insurance options for portable storage containers, providing peace of mind in case of unforeseen accidents or incidents.

8. Don’t Pack Items You Won’t Need

Avoid packing items that you won’t need at your destination, such as out-of-season clothing, unused appliances, or broken furniture. Decluttering before you pack saves space and reduces the amount of time and effort required to unpack at your new home.

Conclusion

With all of these things in mind, you should now be better equipped for your next portable storage packing adventure. Keep in mind that packing portable storage containers requires careful planning and attention, but we at The Mobile Attic are always here to help!