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Packing Tactics for Short-Term and Long-Term Storage During Moves

Packing Tactics for Short-Term and Long-Term Storage During Moves.jpg
Since moving entails having a ready plan to store your belongings, using small storage units in Sutton Coldfield or Castle Bromwich, can make the difference in making the transition much easier. The key to successful storage is effective packing, which will keep your items completely safe, organised, and easy to retrieve when necessary. In this blog, we will give you practical packing tactics for short-term storage and long-term storage during moves, helping you to determine the right storage unit for your needs and making your relocation as smooth as possible.

1. Difference Between Short-Term and Long-Term Storage


Before discussing the nitty-gritty of how to pack, short-term and long-term storage needs should be established.

Short-term storage

The need for short-term storage arises when you are in between homes, undergoing renovations, or even travelling. This is a period when you might need a storage solution for just a few weeks or months. Spacebox Self Storage serving Castle Bromwich or Erdington offers ideal solutions for short-term storage, giving easy access to your belongings when needed.
Also Read: Reasons Why Self-Storage Units Are Ideal for Your Short-Term Storage Needs

Long-term storage

This would fit things you do not need to see now and then, such as seasonal decorations, family heirlooms, or items that just do not seem to fit in your current living space. If it is applicable, there are secure self-storage facilities available in Solihull or Sutton Coldfield to keep your items safe for long periods.

2. Packing for Short-Term Storage


An important consideration in packing for short-term storage is the importance of accessibility. You need to make sure you can find and retrieve your belongings without unpacking everything. Here are some guidelines when packing for the short term:

  • Use transparent or labelled boxes

If you are temporarily putting things away, use clear plastic boxes, so you can see what is in them. If you are using basic cardboard boxes, label them clearly. It is easier to read writing on the side of the box, rather than on the top, to identify what is inside when they get stacked.

  • Pack Essentials Separately

It helps in the initial days to pack a "basics" box that contains items which you might need urgently such as bedding, kitchenware, or toiletries, so that you can take out whatever you want from there without digging through multiple boxes.

  • Stack Strategically

Keep the heavier ones at the bottom and lighter, breakable items on top. This will ensure that your boxes do not dent when you are keeping them in self-storage units in Castle Bromwich and Erdington.
Also Read: 9 Things To Consider When Packing Fragile Items For Self-Storage

3. Packaging for Longer Period Storage


For storage purposes, the primary aim here is to preserve your belongings over time and ensure that they remain in good condition. In case you will be employing a self-storage unit for long-term storage, here are some tips on how you should handle your things:

  • Clean and Dry Everything

Clean and dry all items placed in storage. Musty and dirty items will attract pests and mould. Clean the wooden surfaces, and furniture upholstery, and polish metal parts not to rust or tarnish. Fridges, washing machines, and other appliances should be dry, free of moisture, not to mould up and to eliminate bad smells.

  • Disassemble Furniture

In case you are storing larger items such as beds, desks, or tables, it is advisable to disassemble them, for space-saving and protection from damage. Wrap the furniture parts with a layer of padding or bubble wrap to prevent scratches and dents. Wrap every part or bag the screws and fittings in clearly marked bags so later reassembly is hassle-free.

  • Pack using Good Quality Materials

Packing materials to use in long-term storage should be good enough. Sturdy, tight cardboard boxes, plastic containers, and bubble wrap are preferred over cheaper materials which would probably get worn out within a short period. For sensitive goods such as chinaware, glass wares, or electronics, consider using packing peanuts, foam inserts, or cloth padding to cushion the object throughout its storage process.

4. How You Can Organise Your Storage Unit Wisely


It makes the whole storage process easier, regardless of whether one's storage needs are short-term or long-term, by the way he or she organises his or her storage unit.

  • Take an Inventory

Before you begin moving items into storage, create a detailed list of every item that you will store. This helps you track things much better if you are storing for a long-term period, where items may be in storage for months or even years. Make sure you have an electronic copy to secure.

  • Layout Planning

Think of your storage unit as a puzzle, know how you are going to stack your items so that you maximise all the available space, yet keep vital things easily accessible. Put frequently accessed items up front and less-used items way back. Stack boxes neatly, and do not forget a clear path through the centre of your storage unit so that it is easy to navigate.

  • Use shelving

Provided your self-storage unit allows it, you can install shelves to maximise the efficiency of your storage. Shelves are great for storing smaller items or fragile boxes that should not be stacked. Compact storage units in Sutton Coldfield can thus make full use of a shelving system to fully use vertical space and ensure that each inch is used intelligently.

5. Choosing the Suitable Self-Storage Solution for Your Move



  • Determination of the Self Storage Unit

Since items placed there can be different in size and number, self-storage is required. Spacebox Self Storage has a variety of sizes and features to cater to every kind of storage. For small storage units, dependent on the number of boxes, one can check the following factors in choosing a unit.
Also Read: Choosing the Right Self-Storage Rental Term for Your Event Business

  • Size of the Storage Unit

Choose a storage unit that can fit all your products, but not packed to capacity. Overcrowding is a sure way of damage.

  • Security

Choose a storage facility that operates security measures around the clock, from CCTV surveillance to access control, and even fire protection systems to ensure the safety of your stored goods.

Book A Small Storage Unit in Sutton Coldfield

Regardless of whether you are storing your items in the short-term when moving, or for long-term purposes, this packing and sorting requires time since you protect your belongings. At Spacebox Self Storage, you get flexible space solutions that can accommodate all your needs, from small self-storage solutions in Castle Bromwich to large storage units near Birmingham City. Now, to ensure your move is not stressful and that your goods remain safe and accessible, keep in mind these packing tactics.

Please reach out to us at 01213260060 to discuss in greater detail which of our storage units best fits your needs.