Before you start
- Declutter: don’t pay to store things you don’t want
- Use strong boxes of two or three standard sizes so they stack well
- Clean and fully dry everything: damp causes mould
- Make an inventory, and photograph valuable items for insurance
Packing boxes
- Heavy items in small boxes, light items in large boxes
- Fill gaps with paper or soft items so boxes don’t crush
- Label each box on two sides and the top, with a number that matches your inventory
- Wrap fragile items individually and mark boxes “Fragile”
Furniture and appliances
- Dismantle what you can, and keep fixings in labelled bags taped to the item
- Cover furniture with breathable sheets
- Defrost and dry fridges and freezers fully, and leave the doors slightly open
- Store mattresses flat or on their side in a breathable cover
Lay out the unit
- Put pallets or boards down so nothing sits on the floor
- Place large, rarely needed items at the back
- Stack heavy boxes at the bottom and lighter ones on top
- Leave a walkway if you’ll need to reach things
- Keep the items you’ll need first nearest the door
Get the size right
Packing well can mean a smaller unit. Use our storage unit size guide to estimate, and see how to save money on storage.
Last updated: 13 October 2026
