Storage Tips

When storing at Ship-N-Store we want to provide you with the best packing tips

  • Bedding, Clothing, Curtains, Drapes and Linens

    Wash and fully dry everything before storing to prevent mildew and odors. Fold linens and clothing into sturdy boxes or vacuum-sealed bags, and hang drapes or formalwear in a wardrobe box to avoid creases. A few cedar blocks or moisture absorbers will help keep everything fresh.

  • Appliances

    Clean and dry appliances inside and out, and defrost refrigerators and freezers completely before storing. Leave doors slightly open to prevent musty smells, and secure any loose cords, shelves, or parts. Climate-controlled storage is best for protecting motors and seals.

  • Dishes and Glassware

    Wrap each piece individually in packing paper and stack plates on their edges rather than flat, which helps prevent breakage. Fill empty gaps with paper or bubble wrap, use sturdy dish-pack boxes, and label them fragile. Keep these boxes near the top of your stack.

  • Furniture

    Clean and polish wood and treat leather before storing. Disassemble what you can, such as legs, frames, and headboards, and keep the hardware in labeled bags. Cover pieces with breathable furniture blankets instead of plastic, which can trap moisture.

  • Books and Documents

    Pack books flat or spine-down in small boxes so they stay light enough to lift. Keep them off the floor and away from exterior walls, and use a climate-controlled unit to protect pages and ink from humidity. Silica gel packs add extra moisture protection.

  • Holiday Decorations

    Store ornaments in compartment boxes or wrapped in paper, and coil lights around cardboard to prevent tangles. Label each box by holiday so it is easy to find next season. Sturdy plastic bins work well and stack neatly.

  • Mirrors, Windows, Glass Sheeting and Screens

    Always store mirrors and glass standing on their edge, never flat, to reduce the risk of cracking. Wrap each piece in bubble wrap or moving blankets and use mirror or picture boxes. Mark them fragile and place them where nothing can fall against them.

  • Tools

    Clean your tools and wipe metal surfaces with a light coat of oil to prevent rust. Drain fuel from any gas-powered equipment before storing. Keep small tools in toolboxes and bundle long-handled items together so they are easy to carry.

  • Bicycles and Other Metal Items

    Wipe down frames and apply a light coat of oil or wax to chains and metal parts to guard against rust. Stand bikes upright or hang them to save floor space. Climate-controlled storage helps prevent corrosion over time.

  • Don't Rush

    Give yourself enough time to pack carefully. Rushing leads to damaged items, overstuffed boxes, and a unit that is hard to navigate later. A steady, organized pace pays off when it is time to find something.

  • Leave Some Room

    Resist the urge to fill every inch. Leaving a little space and a center walkway lets you reach items in the back without unloading the whole unit. It also keeps air circulating around your belongings.

  • Clear a Path

    Arrange your unit with a clear aisle down the middle so you can walk in and reach boxes on either side. Keep frequently needed items near the front. This small step saves a lot of digging later.

  • Think Outside of the Box

    Use the hollow spaces you already have. Fill drawers, suitcases, and large appliances with smaller items to save room and protect fragile pieces. Every bit of interior space is storage space.

  • Use Quality Materials

    Invest in sturdy boxes, strong tape, and quality packing supplies. Flimsy or reused boxes can collapse under weight and damage what is inside. We sell boxes and supplies right in our office to make it easy.

  • Make a List and Plan Ahead

    Before you pack, write down what you are storing and how often you will need it. A simple inventory helps you choose the right unit size and makes finding things later much easier. Plan your layout before moving day.

  • Keep, Give, Trash

    Sort your belongings into keep, give away, and trash before you pack. Storing only what you truly want saves space and money. It is the easiest way to avoid paying to store things you will never use again.

  • Pack Efficiently

    Use uniform box sizes so they stack securely, and fill each box completely to prevent crushing. Pack heavier items in small boxes and lighter items in large ones. Snug, full boxes hold their shape and protect their contents.

  • Manage Weight

    Keep boxes light enough to lift safely, ideally under 30 to 40 pounds. Put heavy items like books in small boxes and spread the weight evenly. Your back and your boxes will both thank you.

  • Label All Boxes

    Label every box on more than one side with its contents and the room it belongs to. Clear labels save time when you are searching for a specific item. Consider numbering your boxes and keeping a master list.

  • Clean Stored Items

    Clean and dry everything before it goes into storage. Dirt, food residue, and moisture can attract pests and cause mildew or odors over time. A little prep now keeps your belongings in great shape.

  • Placement

    Place heavy, sturdy items on the bottom and lighter, fragile pieces on top. Put the things you will need soonest near the front of the unit. Keep boxes off the bare floor on pallets or boards.

  • Preparation Prior to Your Move

    Gather your supplies, line up help, and confirm your unit and access details ahead of time. A little preparation before moving day keeps everything running smoothly. Reserve your unit early so it is ready when you are.

  • Use Drawers

    Leave clothing and soft, lightweight items inside dresser drawers to save packing space and boxes. Just avoid storing anything heavy or breakable that could shift. Cover the dresser to keep it clean.

  • Cover Chairs

    Protect upholstered chairs with breathable covers or furniture blankets to keep dust off. When possible, stack matching chairs seat to seat with a blanket in between. Avoid putting plastic wrap directly on fabric, since it can trap moisture.

  • Use Paper for Breakables

    Wrap fragile items in clean packing paper or bubble wrap rather than newspaper, which can leave ink marks. Cushion the bottom and top of the box and fill any gaps. Nothing should move when the box is gently shaken.

  • Separate Lamps and Lampshades

    Remove shades, bulbs, and harps before packing lamps. Wrap lamp bases in padding and nest shades inside one another with paper in between. Pack the shades in their own box so nothing gets crushed.

  • Don't Put Boxes on the Floor

    Keep boxes and furniture off the bare floor by setting them on pallets, boards, or shelving. This protects against moisture and improves air circulation. It is a simple habit that helps everything store better.

  • Moving Day!

    On moving day, keep your inventory handy, load heavy items first, and bring your essentials box last so it comes off first. Take your time and stay organized. Once you arrive, place your most-needed items at the front of your unit.

Storage Tips from Ship-N-Store

Storing your belongings the right way makes all the difference in keeping them safe, clean, and easy to reach. A little planning, quality packing materials, and smart organization go a long way, especially in Louisiana's heat and humidity, where climate-controlled storage adds an extra layer of protection. Whether you are decluttering, moving, or just making room for something new, our team at Ship-N-Store is here to help you store with confidence. Stop by either of our Baker locations or give us a call, and we will help you find the right unit and the right approach for whatever you are storing.