How to Pack Like a Pro: Essential Tips for Storage Units

Whew, the holidays are always a whirlwind. Now that they’re in the rear view mirror—take a moment to catch your breath and recharge.

Okeydokey, enough of that! Time to jump back into the swing of things.

January is all about resolution-making and fresh starts. One of the most common themes? Decluttering and improving organization. 

Resolutions can be daunting. There’s always so much pressure attached to them. Don’t be so quick to throw in the towel at the first sign of feeling overwhelmed. We have an idea to help you succeed with your goal.

Meet your home’s new BFF—yep, you heard right. 

We’re talking about a storage unit, the perfect sidekick for stashing belongings used less frequently but still within easy reach.

We know you’re excited, but hang on. Before you start shoving boxes randomly into your shiny new storage space, let’s help you with a few packing tips to preserve your sanity and your belongings.

Who better to guide us than the expert himself, Todd Plastino, owner and operator of four Central Coast self-storage facilities in Santa Barbara and San Luis Obispo counties. 

Here are Plastino’s key tips to prepare and pack your treasured items for storage. 

First, discard (e.g., recycle, donate, sell, give away) any unwanted items.

A few weeks ahead of time, gather packing supplies, including tape, bubble wrap, packing paper, storage tubs and boxes, and furniture and mattress protectors. Don’t forget a sharpie pen or label maker.

Try to stick with standard size boxes (e.g., small, medium, and large). This will help keep everything uniform when stacking them in a truck or storage space. Storage tubs (again, same size) will make things even easier to stack. 

Pack heavier objects in small boxes and light objects in large boxes. Never pack boxes with too much weight. Be sure to fill empty spaces within boxes with packing material to keep contents secure.

Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap or packing paper. Wrap electronics in ample amounts of packing paper. 

Write “fragile” on boxes or tubs containing breakable goods. 

Clearly mark each storage container with its contents. You can also number each box or tub and keep a digital inventory.

Disassemble large or bulky items (e.g., bed frames, tables). Place nuts and bolts in a baggie and tape it to that item so they remain together.

Defrost and thoroughly dry residual water from freezers.

Place bags over the ends of washing machine hoses so water doesn’t leak.

Of course, if you prefer to throw caution to the wind, Plastino has observed people haphazardly tossing individual items into storage. However, if you value your belongings, you may prefer to follow his sage advice with the tips listed above. 

Not only will your possessions remain safe by implementing Plastino’s suggestions, you’ll bask in the serenity of your newly peaceful, uncluttered home.

Can you think of a better way to start off the new year? Clear space, clear mind.

Aaahhh.