Moving can be stressful, however, with a little planning, you can reduce the amount of stress you are faced with. If you find you are in between possession dates, storage units in Edmonton are a great solution. If you are downsizing, a self storage unit is a great temporary solution until you decide what you can live without. To help make your move more enjoyable and stress free, here are some packing and storage tips:
Packing little by little is far less stressful than trying to tackle it all in one day. As early as a couple months out, start packing the stuff you know you won’t be using. Start with storage closets or seasonal items.
Start going through all your belongings and decide whether you want to keep, donate, sell, or toss. Sell or donate anything that’s in good condition. There are many fantastic charities that will take gently used household items.
Be prepared in advance and get good sturdy boxes, packing tape, markers and other packing materials like packing paper, bubble wrap and stretch wrap. Mattress and furniture covers are a great way to keep your furniture clean while moving. You can also purchase specialty boxes to protect mirrors and TVs.
Use smaller boxes for your heavier items like books so that you don't overpack a box. Larger boxes are great for lighter items like towels and bedding. Avoid overpacking boxes so they are easy to lift and move, this will also help avoid injuries.
The last thing you want is a box falling apart on you during your move. Moving boxes are relatively inexpensive, and the added durability can be worth the cost in the end.
Label every box with the destination room and as many contents as you can to make it easier to find when needed. If you are hiring a professional mover, it's a good idea to number the boxes and keep a list of contents in each box. If a box goes missing, it will be easier to file a claim. Label all sides of the boxes for easier identification.
Consider what items you’ll need in the first week or so after your move and pack those items in their own boxes. Things such as toilet paper, toiletries, garbage bags, cleaning products, kitchen utensils and cookware. Using different coloured tape on the boxes with these items will make them easily identifiable.
Whether you are moving or putting your belongings into a storage unit, you need to pack and properly protect your belongings so they do not get damaged. Pictures and mirrors should be wrapped in cardboard and marked FRAGILE, or consider purchasing speciality boxes. Dishes and glasses should be wrapped in bubble wrap or packing paper and packed in sturdy boxes. Pack plates vertically as this will make them less likely to break. Do not pack fragile items and heavy items in the same box. You can also purchase dish and glass set dividers to help with packing these fragile items.
You should always plan ahead so you can maximize the space in your storage locker. Put the most frequently used items near the front of your storage unit for your own convenience. This will allow you to quickly access them. Try to leave an aisle down the centre of the storage unit for easy access.
Disassemble furniture like bed frames or tables so they take up less space. If you choose not to breakdown your bookcases/wall units, these are great to store smaller items or things you would like to keep handy.
Make sure to put heavier items on the bottom and lighter boxes on top. If you have any shelving, keep assembled and stack your boxes on the shelves.
Properly wrap your belongings with plastic wrap or moving blankets. You can also purchase furniture or mattress covers to keep these items dust free.
When storing your fridge or freezer, make sure you prop the doors open, as closing them can lead to a build up of moisture and mold. Defrost these items prior to putting them into a storage unit.
Never store food or perishables in your storage unit as these items will attract bugs and rodents. If you are unsure as to what cannot be stored in a self storage locker, please ask one of our rental experts.
At Elite Self Storage we sell boxes of various sizes, packing tape, bubble wrap and other packing materials to help pack your household items.
At Elite Self Storage in Edmonton rent only the space you need for the period of time you need. We offer month to month billing with no admin fees or security deposits.
If you are not sure on how the storage process works check out our guide or call one of our storage rental experts at 780-452-8242.
With personalized access codes and video surveillance, we are committed in providing a safe and secure place for your belongings. Elite Self Storage is located in South Edmonton near South Edmonton Common, Parsons Rd, Whitemud Drive, Anthony Henday and Gateway Blvd.
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