Packing can be an increasingly stressful process, especially when preparing items safely for storage or a big move (such as relocating or moving house). This guide is designed to answer some of the questions you might have about packing for storage, whilst providing you with some top tips from industry experts on how to master your packing.
1) How do I wrap a TV for storage?
If you are packing a TV for storage it may well be that you no longer have the box that it came in. The best way to prepare a TV for storage, in this instance, is to first ensure that you organize any wires and plug sockets, storing them in zip lock bags. Wrap the TV in a blanket to protect it from getting scratched or damaged – you can use rope or masking tape to secure the position of the blanket. Then, you should find a box in which the TV will fit – leaving space for the blanket. When travelling with the wrapped TV, ensure that it is secured within the vehicle and will not be at risk of getting damaged during the journey.
2) How do I store a computer safely?
Much like a television, computers can be difficult to pack safely. Firstly, if you do not have the original packaging, find a similarly sized box and ensure that it is lined with some kind of cushioning – scrunched up paper will do the trick. Cover the computer and monitor with bubble wrap, as this offers some of the best protection against damages – securing this with tape. Individually wrap the other components such as the mouse and keyboard. Ensure when adding the items to the box, that you ensure the monitor is facing the inside wall of the box. Add more cushioning where necessary – especially to fill in any gaps in the box as this will again minimize the possibility of damage occurring.
3) How does bubble wrap insulate?
Bubble wrap is a popular form of packaging material, largely because it is inexpensive, lightweight and can be used to package many different items. Furthermore, wrapping products with bubble wrap is a fairly straightforward process meaning it is not necessarily a time-consuming process. However, bubble wrap is also increasingly useful since it has insulating qualities. The air inside the bubbles helps to monitor temperature changes, therefore protecting items that are sensitive to the cold or heat when in storage.
4) What packaging items do people buy when moving houses?
When getting ready to prepare items for storage, it can be difficult to decide just what to purchase to help you make the move a little bit easier. The most frequently purchased items are:
- Cardboard Boxes (in various sizes)
- Bubble wrap
- Masking/Packing Tape
- Furniture Covers
- Protective Spray (for furniture that may get damaged)
- Labelling materials
- Vacuum seal bags
- Foam Packing
- Newspaper
The above is not a comprehensive list, but it is definitely worth purchasing a few items if you are preparing items for storage. They are designed to help protect the items from damage, wear and tear and the elements – meaning that no matter how long they are stored, they ought to remain intact. Luckily, the large majority of these items can also be purchased from a local convenience store and are rather inexpensive.
5) What are some tips for packing furniture?
One of the best things you can to do to make for easy storage is to disassemble furniture where possible – this helps you maximize space in the storage unit but also can protect items from being damaged. When taking apart furniture, use a zip lock bag to keep track of any screws or bolts and tape the bag to the furniture to ensure you do not lose it. Items that may be vulnerable to temperature should be stored appropriately and protective sprays should be applied when packing (i.e. leather sofas). Always try to make the most out of your space – for example, chairs can be stored seat to seat.
6) Packing tips for plates and cups
Ensure that all plates are wrapped and placed standing up (not flat on top of each other) so there will be no pressure on the bottom ones. All cups to be wrapped and placed standing in the box with paper on the bottom.
When packing items into boxes, ensure that the boxes are full and will not collapse when stacked – empty spaces can be filled with packing peanuts, newspaper or other cushioning material to prevent this. Remember, boxes containing fragile items should be placed above heavier boxes to prevent damages. Always label boxes clearly – and write ‘FRAGILE’ in capital letters when appropriate.
Above all, the most important thing to remember when packing is to be organized. Getting items ready for storage can take up a little time, therefore you must have a plan in place to best protect your furniture and belongings when readying them for a storage facility.
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