Packing a storage unit may seem simple—just box things up and stack them, right? Not quite. The way you pack your storage unit plays a big role in whether your belongings stay clean, dry, and undamaged over time. Moisture from concrete floors, unwrapped furniture, and soggy cardboard boxes can all lead to avoidable damage. In this article, we’ll show you how a few extra steps—like using pallets, sealing items in plastic totes, and wrapping furniture properly—can save you time, money, and heartache.
Even in clean, well-maintained storage units, concrete floors can “sweat”—especially during temperature shifts.
What to Do: Lay down wooden pallets or create a raised platform to keep items lifted off the ground.
Why It Helps: Elevation keeps your items away from possible moisture buildup, reduces temperature impact, and keeps airflow circulating underneath your belongings.
Furniture pieces—especially wood and upholstery—are highly susceptible to dust, moisture, and scratches when stored unprotected.
What to Do: Cover couches, tables, mattresses, and chairs with stretch wrap, furniture pads, or moving blankets. Avoid using thin plastic tarps, which can trap moisture.
Why It Helps: Wrapping cushions and wooden surfaces preserves their condition and prevents mold, mildew, or surface damage.
Cardboard is fine for moving day—but when it comes to long-term storage, it just doesn’t cut it.
What to Do: Store photographs, keepsakes, seasonal decorations, documents, and other sensitive items in airtight plastic bins.
Why It Helps: Plastic totes seal out moisture, bugs, and dust far better than cardboard. Plus, they stack neatly and make organization easier.
Even with the right containers and covers, you still need a strategy for packing your unit efficiently.
What to Do: Group similar items together and label every bin or box on multiple sides. Create a layout that keeps frequently accessed items near the front.
Why It Helps: A little planning now saves you from digging through stacks of boxes later—especially if you rotate seasonal items in and out throughout the year.
Proper packing is more than a convenience—it’s your first line of defense in protecting your belongings. A little prep goes a long way: raise your items off the floor, wrap your furniture with care, and ditch the cardboard in favor of sealed plastic bins. These simple steps can make all the difference in keeping your belongings in top condition. If you’re ready to upgrade your storage experience, contact us today. We’re happy to help you choose the right unit and offer guidance on how to make the most of your space.