Storage Tips When Using Portable Storage Containers

Portable Storage Containers

Using portable storage containers is one of the most convenient storage solutions available today. Whether you are moving, or just need a place to store excess items, nothing could be simpler or more affordable. However, you want to approach packing your storage container carefully so you make use of every inch. Here we offer tips to pack your portable storage container wisely.

1. Consider What You’re Storing

By considering what you’re storing you can create a smart space plan that helps you use up less space, while also being able to access items when you need them. Some good questions to help you plan your packing include:

  • What will you need to unpack first?
  • Are there items you’ll need to access and others you won’t?
  • What are your larger pieces and when will you need them?
  • If moving, is there a logical way to load the storage container to make moving into the home easier?
  • What do I have that is awkward to stack that might be more dangerous to store?

Once you answer these questions you can start packing based on your plan.

2. Consider Packing Supplies to Use Space Effectively

Solid moving boxes with lids can make it much easier to use up space from floor to ceiling. They are also easy to label so you can organize things more efficiently. Using a mix of different sized, flimsy boxes and garbage bags makes your job harder and also increases the risk for something to fall on you when you’re in the storage containers Calgary. Although soft things like clothes in a garbage bag can often be easier to stuff into awkward unused spaces, the same size, lidded stackable option tends to work best.

3. Protect Your Items

No matter how careful you are, there is always a chance that items will get damaged during a move or in storage. A good rule of thumb is to be sure to wrap fragile items like glasses and dishware carefully before placing them in boxes. If the items seem loose, add extra crumpled newspaper or bubble wrap to avoid things shifting and banging around. You also want to use moving blankets or bubble wrap to protect wood furniture and other items that can get scratched or dented.

4. Keep Things Balanced

This can be tricky, but it is necessary. Ideally, you want to make sure both sides and the front and back of the portable storage container have even weight distribution. Pay attention to how you load things. You can take the time to separate heavy and light items so you can easily pick from each pile to keep things balanced. Work side to side, leaving an aisle to walk down in the middle of the container while you work. You can then fill in the center once the sides are nicely balanced. This also helps make better use of the space.

5. Fill All the Gaps

Efficient packing means filling all the gaps. As you work look for spaces and fill them in with odd or smaller items. As mentioned, stacking is the key to filling space, but you may be able to find available space as you work. Tight packing not only uses space wisely but also reduces the risk of shifting that can damage your belongings. An example of wasted space is the seating area of a couch which makes the perfect spot for pillows, bags of clothes, or boxes.

6. Secure Moving Parts

Secure drawers and doors with tape to keep them from falling open in transportation.

7. Avoid Being Top Heavy

Always aim to place heavier items on the floor to create a solid base for lighter items. This is safer and also avoids crushing lighter boxes from the weight above.

8. Plan Access

If there are items you will need to access more frequently, or sooner, access is a big consideration when packing storage containers. There are two things you’ll need to do:

  I.                 Leave a path to get at items you need and

 II.                Place items you will need sooner or more often closer to the door of the portable storage container

Also, be sure to clearly label boxes so you make sure you can find what you need. Another tip is to keep smaller items you might remove and return to storage often in a handy carrying case, knapsack, wheeled luggage, etc. to make it easier.

9. Avoid Damage for Long-term Storage

Last but not least, avoid damage to items in long-term storage by using sturdy waterproof containers to avoid water damage. Also, keep cardboard boxes or containers with papers off the ground and consider a climate-controlled storage container to avoid damage from humidity and moisture.

These tips will help you pack your portable storage containers like a pro.