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Packing tips
At Shurgard we want you to have a great self storage experience. Below is everything you need to know on how to pack your belongings like a pro.
As a true self storage expert, we can also help you with professional moving boxes and packing materials such as extra large boxes, wardrobe boxes, glass dividers, tape, bubble wrap, mattress bags, silk paper…
To buy our moving boxes and packing supplies, just pop by any Shurgard locations near you.
Choose the right box
For every one large box you will need about four small- to medium-size.
Use the smaller boxes for heavy items such as books and dishes; the large boxes for lighter items like bedding, blankets and linens.
Avoid using garbage bags to pack your stuff because they tear easily and lack ventilation, which can result in mildew.
Don’t overload the boxes
Packed boxes should not weigh more than you can comfortably lift. Pack heavy items at the bottom of boxes to provide a stable base.
Make sure they remain “square” and do not bulge at the top or sides. This way they will stay stable when you stack them in your storage unit.
It’s also important to not under pack the boxes. If the box is half empty, the contents can shift during transport, they can also get crushed under the weight of heavier boxes or items. Use foam packing peanuts to fill empty spaces without adding much weight.
Use hanging wardrobe boxes
Prevent wrinkling and damage to trousers, dresses, suits and evening wear by hanging them in a wardrobe box.
With these boxes, you can reduce packing and unpacking time by just moving hung items straight from your closet to the boxes.
You can also use these wardrobe boxes to hang drapes, bedding or to store garden tools or garage items.
Tape your boxes up
Good quality packaging tape is essential. Closing your boxes with packing tape to make sure they maintain their structure and protect your items. Be sure to firmly close the top and bottom flaps with wide tape.
Label your boxes
Use a heavy black marker to label the box. This will save you from having to open every box when you need something later.
Mark the stacking direction
Clearly mark the stacking direction of boxes that contain items that should be stored in a certain way —such as glassware, picture frames and lamps that can otherwise be easily damaged when stored wrongly.
Prep your power tools
If you are storing lawnmowers, weed wackers or leaf blowers, drain their fuel tanks before putting them in your storage unit.
This will prevent other items in your storage unit from adopting a fuel odour and also protect your clothing and other items from being damaged in case of a leak.
Wrap your furniture
Cover and pad furniture with protective materials to keep them in good condition during the moving process and while in storage. Remove cushions from the sofa and wrap or place them in plastic bags.
Make items as small as possible
Many stored items can be made smaller. For example you can reduce the size of bed frames to help them fit more comfortably in your storage space.
Wrap frames together with tape (use the non-sticky side to avoid tape residue) then place any screws in plastic bags and tape them to the frame.
Our self storage tools and tips
Moving checklist
Stress less, move better. Use our moving checklist for a smooth move.
Read our moving checklist
Packing tips
Everything you need to know on how to pack and protect your belongings.
Read our packing tips
Storage tips
Tips on how to maximise your space by efficiently arranging your storage unit.
Read our storage tips
Health & safety tips
Here's how to keep you safe during every step of the storage process.
Read our health & safety tips
Housekeeping tips
Get the most out of your storage experience with our housekeeping tips.
Read our housekeeping tips
How to lock your storage unit
Easily secure your storage unit in four simple steps.
Read our lock instructions
Why store your belongings at Shurgard?
Here are some reasons why Shurgard is great when it comes to storing your belongings.
Find storage near you
Variety of unit sizes
We have a range of storage sizes – so if you don’t have many things, you won’t end up paying for space you’re not using.
Safe and secure
Our premises are secured with surveillance cameras, perimeter fencing, alarms, individual access codes. You can access your unit with your own lock and key.
Convenient access
Only you can access your storage unit. We offer free and extended access hours, 7 days a week, so you’re free to store or pick up things whenever you need to.
No long-term commitment
Our storage units are rented month-to-month, so there's no long-term commitment.
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