Packing and Storage Tips

At Public Storage, we know a thing or two about getting the most out of each square foot of space. To get the most out of your packing and organizing, we have some tips on how to best store your prized belongings to make sure they can stay in good shape while tucked away behind our orange doors.

Tips for Packing for Storage

1. Purchase Packing Supplies

Before you get started packing, you’ll need to determine what type of packing supplies you need and how much of each. While some items work best in cardboard boxes, others may be better suited for a heavy-duty plastic container with a lid. 

If you’re unsure about packaging for your possessions, you can stop by your Public Storage facility and one of our on-site managers can help you figure out what will work best for you and your needs. Plus, to save you a trip to the store, we offer a variety of packing materials at each of our Public Storage locations. 

You can purchase boxes, bubble wrap, glass packs, mattress bags, furniture covers and more at your local Public Storage. Any unused items are refundable within 30 days of purchase if you bring your original receipt along with the unopened item(s) to any Public Storage location.

2. Properly Pack Furniture

Once you’ve moved your furniture into your Public Storage unit, avoid using plastic coverings for long-term storage. This can potentially lead to moisture damage for your furniture. To protect your furniture from dust and other debris, we recommend draping your furniture loosely with blankets or quilts. 

3. Pack Appliances Safely

You can use your Public Storage unit to store small and large appliances when they’re not in use! Before moving your appliances to your storage unit, be sure to drain any remaining liquid from water lines and remove any fragile parts or glass shelves. Once it’s in your unit, make sure the appliance remains off per your storage unit agreement.

4. Pack Clothing in Storage Bins

For packing away clothing, we recommend that you purchase plastic containers with lids. This will help to prevent dust, mildew and moisture from getting to your clothes. To ward off moths or unwanted odor, use cedar balls. Make sure to label your containers for easy access in the future if needed.

Tips for Organizing a Storage Unit

1. Maximize Your Storage Space

When you’re packing your storage unit and moving each item in, it can seem like you run out of space quickly. To get the most out of every square inch, it’s time to think vertically. Start from the bottom and stack your heaviest and largest boxes on the bottom layer — then move up. 

If you’re looking for even more organization, consider bringing in temporary shelves (approved by your property manager) to help organize large items that don’t fit inside boxes. Lastly, if you’re moving in furniture, disassemble it as much as you can. This helps you to stack pieces of furniture on top of one another, creating more space.

2. Use Packing Labels on Everything

For peace of mind and to save you time in the future, be sure to label everything. Ensuring that each label can be easily seen will help you to find the items you’re looking for when you stop by your storage space and get in and out in a snap.

3. Organize by Priority

Make an inventory list of everything you’re taking to your storage unit. When you get to your unit, make sure you prioritize the items you may need to take out sooner rather than later. Is it October and you’re going to be needing your holiday decorations soon? Put those boxes towards the front or in an easy-to-access location.