packing tips

labeling

To minimize confusion and make retrieving items from storage easier, keep these important labeling points in mind. Label each box and include an inventory sheet of the contents if necessary. Consider color coding the boxes by room or by type of item (clothes, etc.). Avoid labeling over a seam or on top of sealing tape. Mark fragile boxes clearly. Identify the “Top” of fragile boxes if the contents might be damaged by storing the box on the sides or bottom. Take an inventory of what you pack.

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boxes

 

We strongly recommend using Corrugated Boxes. Use clean cartons designed for moving. Boxes obtained from grocery or liquor stores are not always clean and they may not withstand the weight of your items. Also, their odd sizes tend to make loading more difficult. Use a new box large enough to allow adequate room for cushioning material on all sides of the contents. Choose a box strength suitable for its contents. Never exceed the maximum gross weight of the box. This is usually defined in the box maker’s certificate printed on the bottom of the box.

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professional packing tape

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Proper closure of your package is as important as adequate cushioning. To close a box securely, use a strong tape – two inches or more in width. Professional packing tape is a wide, strong, clear or brown tape. Do not use masking tape or cellophane tape. These tapes do not provide the strength necessary for secure closures. Tape all cartons closed on the top and bottom, don’t just fold the end flaps closed.

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small items

To prevent small items from being lost or mistakenly thrown out with the packing paper, wrap miniature knickknacks and other small items in brightly-colored tissue paper before placing them in the box.

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metal

To retard rust, wipe all metal surfaces with a rag containing a few drops of machine oil.

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How to Organize Your Storage Room

Leave a few inches of space between your items and the wall for better ventilation. Pallets are available for customers to use underneath their goods for ventilation upon request. These pallets are given to customers on a first come, first serve basis. Place the items that you are least likely to need in your unit first. Place the items that you are most likely to need closest to the door for easy access. Store the heaviest items on the bottom and lighter items on top. Place cartons so that you can read the label. Securely latch and lock the door to your storage room when leaving. 

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overpacking

It is better to have a lot of boxes that you can lift, than fewer boxes and a strained back. When packing a box that weighs more than 30 pounds, it is important to re-evaluate your packing materials and check that they are adequate for heavier package contents. Cartons need to be of stronger construction, preferable with seams that are stitched or stapled, not glued. Check the box maker’s certification for maximum weight. Use new cartons whose strength has not been compromised by humidity or prior use wear and tear. Seal with heavy duty tape, preferably reinforced. Dense cushioning is a must. Peanuts and crumpled paper are not acceptable. They crush and shift under heavy loads. Customized corrugated or molded foam “framing” are more suitable and reinforce the rigidity of the outer carton. Do not band packages together unless each individual package is in a carton designed to support the total “package” weight. If you must band packages, use a minimum of two bands in each direction and label the individual boxes. Band together only same sized boxes.