How to Pack for Storage

Keep stored items clean, dry and protected 

Storage is a great solution when moving plans don't line up perfectly. But when your belongings will be packed away for weeks or months, it's worth taking a few extra steps to keep everything in good shape. 

Here's where to focus your efforts before items go into storage.

Decide what to store

If storage is part of your U-Pack move, you won’t have access to your belongings until you're ready to have them delivered. That's why it's worth doing a little planning up front to decide what goes in storage and what should stay with you.

Start by reviewing our do not ship list to make sure everything you're planning to load is allowed in U-Pack equipment. Then, as you sort through your belongings, ask yourself:

• Am I going to need this before move-in day?
• Would I rather keep it with me?
• Does this need special care while it's packed away?

A little extra thought at this stage can help you avoid storing something you'll wish you had later.

Gather supplies

Many of the supplies you'd use for a move work just as well when storage is part of the plan. But it does make sense to add a few storage-friendly supplies to your packing kit. Furniture and mattress covers, vacuum-seal bags, tarps and moisture-control products can provide an extra layer of protection.

If you need a refresher on packing techniques and supply recommendations, check out our packing guide.

Prevent odor, pests and moisture

If there's one step you shouldn't skip, it's making sure everything is clean and completely dry. That includes the obvious things, like washing and drying clothing and linens, but it also applies to furniture, appliances and everyday household items. 

Before packing items for storage, take time to:

• Wash and thoroughly dry clothing, bedding and towels
• Wipe down furniture to remove dust and dirt
• Empty refrigerators, freezers and other appliances
• Remove crumbs and food residue from kitchen items

Pay special attention to high-risk items 

Not all household items respond to storage in the same way. Consider taking additional steps for sensitive items:

Furniture and mattresses

Use furniture covers, moving blankets or mattress bags for added protection, and avoid storing heavy items on top of upholstered furniture. If you're covering wood furniture, skip plastic wrap and opt for breathable coverings to help prevent trapped moisture.

Clothing and linens

Fabrics can absorb odors and collect dust over time. Vacuum-seal bags can be a good option for seasonal clothing, extra bedding and other soft goods that won't need to breathe during storage. For delicate fabrics, garment bags may be a better choice. Consider tossing a cedar block or lavender sachet into boxes to help keep items fresh.

Leather or suede items

Natural materials can be more sensitive to changes in temperature and humidity than other household goods. Avoid wrapping leather or suede items in plastic, which can trap moisture and lead to mildew. Instead, use breathable covers or cotton sheets. 

Documents, books, photos and keepsakes 

Paper-based items can be especially vulnerable to dust, moisture and discoloration during storage. Whenever possible, store these items in acid-free folders or sleeves or use acid-free packing paper to wrap them. 

Important note: If there are documents, family photos or keepsakes that would be difficult or impossible to replace, consider keeping them with you instead of placing them in storage.

Common mistakes to avoid 

Keep an eye out for these common storage mistakes:

• Packing items that are damp or haven't fully dried after cleaning
• Forgetting to check U-Pack's do not ship list before loading
• Skipping protective covers for mattresses, upholstered furniture and other soft goods
• Wrapping wood, leather or suede items in plastic that can trap moisture
• Storing items you'll need before move-in day
• Not removing water or crumbs from appliances
• Placing heavy items on top of mattresses, upholstered furniture or fragile boxes

Want to add storage to your move?

If you’re moving with U-Pack®, adding storage is easy. With our service, you only have to load your belongings once. Then, we can store everything in the moving equipment at origin or destination for as long as you need (based on availability). 

Using a storage unit instead? Check out our tips for moving into and out of a storage facility to help make the process easy. 
 
If you have questions about moving, packing or storage, let us know in the comments. We’re here to help!