Packing Tips That Will Save You Time, Money, and Frustration
Packing Tips That Will Save You Time, Money, and Frustration
Whether you're packing for a move or loading up a storage unit, how you pack matters almost as much as what you pack. Good packing saves space, protects your belongings, and makes everything much easier to deal with on the other end. Here are the most useful packing tips we know.
Start With the Right Supplies
Don't underestimate your supplies. A good packing job starts with:
• Sturdy, uniform-sized boxes (medium boxes are the most versatile)
• Plenty of packing tape — more than you think you need
• Bubble wrap and packing paper for fragile items
• Permanent markers for labeling
• Furniture pads or moving blankets for larger items
The Heavy-Bottom Rule
Always pack heavy items — books, tools, appliances — on the bottom of boxes, and lighter items on top. This keeps boxes stable when stacked and prevents lighter items from being crushed. Never make a box so heavy you can't safely carry it.
Don't Leave Empty Space in Boxes
Unfilled boxes collapse when stacked. Fill any gaps with crumpled packing paper, towels, or soft clothing. A full box is a stable box.
Use Your Soft Items as Packing Material
Towels, socks, t-shirts, and linens make excellent free packing material. Wrap dishes in t-shirts, tuck socks inside glasses, and use folded towels to cushion electronics. You'll pack your clothes and protect your breakables at the same time.
Label Strategically
Label every box on the top and two sides. Include the room it belongs to AND a short description of contents (e.g., "Kitchen — pots/pans" or "Master Bedroom — winter clothes"). Color-coded labels by room are even better.
Pack a "First Access" Box for Your Storage Unit
Just like a moving "first night" box, create a "first access" box for your storage unit with the items you'll most likely need to retrieve first. Put it at the very front of your unit, clearly labeled.
Disassemble What You Can
Bed frames, shelving units, and tables take up far less space when broken down. Bag all hardware and tape it directly to the disassembled piece. Take a photo before disassembling anything complex so you know how to put it back together.
Protect Furniture Surfaces
Use furniture pads, moving blankets, or plastic wrap to protect finished surfaces from scratches. Avoid wrapping in regular plastic for long-term storage as it can trap moisture.
💡 With drive-up access at all our units, loading your storage unit at Pampa Secure Storage is as easy as pulling right up to the door. Rent your unit at pampasecurestorage.com.
