Packing for a Move vs. Packing for a Storage Unit

Moving means packing your belongings and transporting them from one location to another. However, not all moves are the same, especially if you move your things to a storage unit instead into a new home or apartment.

While you must pack everything in both situations, there are distinct approaches to packing for a move versus a storage unit. Let’s break down these differences to prepare yourself for each scenario.

Comparing Packing for a Move vs. Storage Unit

Packing Materials

When moving from one home to the next, your belongings will only stay packed briefly. However, when storing your stuff, it could sit in boxes and containers for several weeks, months, or even years.

So, you have to plan accordingly when packing for a storage unit. Instead of using cardboard boxes, springing for plastic bins with secure lids is often much better. This way, they resist mold, water damage, and pests.

Short-Term vs. Long-Term Storage

There are many reasons to get a storage unit, and you must consider what elements to pay attention to when choosing a suitable facility. However, when packing for storage, you need to know if your belongings will be there for a relatively short period (i.e., three to six months) or a long time (i.e., a year or more).

Both options may require different packing strategies and materials. For example, let’s say you plan to store your belongings for six months while you travel for work. Since you won’t check on your items until you return, you must pack heavier items on the bottom and lighter boxes up top.

Finally, consider how the environment in your storage unit changes. Some facilities have climate-controlled units, but others may get hot in the summer and cold in the winter. These temperature changes can lead to issues like mildew or condensation buildup. If you’re storing electronics, you must ensure they won’t get damaged by moisture.

Labeling and Organization

Typically, when packing for a move, you have boxes that belong in specific rooms, such as the kitchen, bathroom, or bedroom. When packing for storage, however, you may have miscellaneous items that don’t necessarily fit into a specific category.

When labeling and organizing your boxes, you may combine random items or keep them classified by specific traits. Also, consider whether you’ll need to move things in and out of your unit. In that case, you want to put those belongings up front, so they’re accessible, and items you won’t need for a long time in the back.

Pro Tip: It is best to keep any extremely valuable or sensitive items elsewhere, such as perishables, hazardous materials, or highly sensitive items. While most storage companies offer adequate protection against thieves, keeping any extremely valuable or sensitive items away from your storage unit is still best.

Get Help for Moving Your Belongings

Whether moving to a house or putting stuff into a storage unit, it helps to have professionals on the job. We can handle everything from packing to organizing, so you don’t have to. Contact us today to find out more.