Dec 12, 2024 Storage Company

Tips on How to Pack for Long-Term Storage in Vancouver

Posted by: Mcmmanager

Getting ready for a storage company to pick up your belongings for temporary storage is a little different than say packing up for a move.  Regardless of whether you need to store your belongings for a few weeks, months or even years, it’s important to take some extra care when packing to help make sure your items are returned to you in the same condition you left them.

Potential Pitfalls of Long-Term Storage

Have you ever dug an old box out of the garage only to find it smells musty, is covered in mould, or has been overrun by pests? In Vancouver’s humid climate, improperly stored items are at a higher risk for these issues. While professional storage facilities often provide temperature and humidity-controlled environments, you have to do your part when packing to help avoid any potential damage.

With that in mind, here are a few tips for packing properly for long-term storage

Packing For Long-Term Storage

Clean Everything Thoroughly

Clothing and textiles are most susceptible to damage during long-term storage so before packing any blankets, towels, stuffed toys, and clothes, make sure to wash and completely dry them. Dirt and dampness are breeding grounds for mould, mildew, and bad smell and making sure things are clean before storing them will help ensure they don’t get damaged. For larger items like upholstered furniture, vacuum thoroughly and let it air out before wrapping.

Pack in Air-Tight Containers

Using the right packing materials can also help protect your belongings against damage during storage. Instead of using cardboard boxes, opt for air-tight plastic containers to keep your items safe from moisture and pests. For even more protection, add some silica packets to the containers to absorb any lingering humidity. Pro tip: look for clear bins if you can as it will make finding things much easier when your stored items are eventually *

Wrap Furniture in Blankets or Plastic Sheeting

Even large items like dressers, mattresses, and box springs need to be properly packed for their time in storage. Thoroughly clean all surfaces and loosely wrap them with moving blankets or plastic wrap. It’s important to make sure your furniture items are not too tightly enclosed; leaving space allows air to circulate and helps prevent humidity from accumulating.

Use Archive Boxes for Important Documents and Photos

If you’re storing paper items like family photos, legal documents, or books, invest in archival-quality storage boxes and acid-free folders. These are specifically designed to prevent yellowing and degradation over time.

Label Everything Clearly

When packing for long-term storage be sure to organize and clearly label everything! It’s easy to forget what went where after months or years and by labeling each container clearly with its contents, and even the room it belongs in, you’ll be saving yourself a lot of time and hassle in the future. Round off your packing with an itemizing list that you can reference if you ever need to retrieve something.

Choosing the Right Storage Company in Vancouver

You don’t want all the time and effort you spend packing your valuable belongings to be wasted, and that’s why choosing the right company is crucial. Moving is hard enough but when you add the logistics of long-term storage you want to know the company you’ve chosen is reliable, secure, and experienced in handling stored items with care. Look for a company that offers temperature-controlled facilities, excellent customer service, and strong reviews from past clients.

Packing properly for long-term storage may take a little extra effort upfront, but it’s worth it to protect your belongings. With these tips and the help of a professional Vancouver storage company, you can rest assured that your items will stay safe and sound until you need them again.