In the world of portable moving containers packing them for a move is an art form. Some will just cram everything into these containers, but that’s how fragile items get damaged. The good news is learning to pack large moving containers is quite easy and detailed below!
What Is a Portable Moving Container?
Portable moving containers store your personal items while allowing easy transportation to a new property. Depending on where you live, there may be loose regulations on how long these containers can sit on a property. Many of these portable moving containers are weatherproof, so there are no worries about keeping your items free from Mother Nature.
Once packed, the portable moving container is transported to a storage facility or to your new home. Think of these containers as moving trucks with no running clock. They are at your disposal, and function largely the same way a moving trailer does.
How to Prepare Your Items
Portable storage containers stay on your property as long as you need. Since there’s no rush to fill them, it’s important to pack these containers correctly. Doing this right protects your property and ensures your move is less stressful.
Don’t haphazardly pile your possessions in the containers. Simply take your time and fill them properly. As there is no rush, you can be thoughtful and intentional. This results in a much easier process of unloading the portable storage container at its destination.
1. Packing Boxes
Boxes should be stacked to the brim to prevent collapsing and damage to belongings. The key is making sure the boxes weigh no more than 30 pounds. There are several good techniques to use to pack boxes effectively.
One of the best techniques is putting heavy items on the bottom and lighter items at the top of the box. This makes the box easier to lift and easier to store.
2. Protecting Breakable Items
If you prefer not to use bubble wrap, kill two birds with one stone by wrapping breakable items in clothing. Fragile items will have a cushion if the moving is especially bumpy. There are plenty of alternatives as well including newspaper and packing peanuts. The goal is to eliminate space in the boxes for shifting, as the shifting is where breakage usually occurs.
3. Guarding Soft Furniture
Keeping fabrics in good condition despite having items stacked on top of them is easy. By wrapping these items, you can guard the fabric so once you set up the furnishings in a new place, they look as if they never spent time in a portable moving container.
4. Take Apart Large Furniture
Taking apart large pieces of furniture saves space in your portable moving container. Label each piece to make reassembly easy. Protect large pieces by using bubble-wrap or moving blankets. Many portable storage container companies provide moving blankets at no extra charge.
How to Load a Portable Moving Container
It may seem overwhelming when you look at the space in the portable moving container and all your stuff. The good news is these containers are safe. A note of caution involves important documents and heirlooms – important items like these should be packed separately. This ensures you don’t lose them in the clutter of the move.
Here are some efficient pod packing tips!
Distribute the Weight
It is important the weight of your items is properly distributed. The easiest way to do this is putting heavy appliances and items starting at the corners, working around the edges, and then gradually moving inside. If you don’t have much in the way of heavy items, then concentrate these items in the center and move outward with the weight of the items progressively less.
Don’t Leave Opened Space
Open space means a greater risk for damage. Make sure you can fill all the spaces. Use soft items like clothing to rest between the ceiling of the portable moving container and the items. This acts as a shock absorber and keeps items in place. Fill all open spaces so everything stands sturdy.
Use Loading Straps
Portable moving containers often have loading straps already installed. These straps make securing boxes easy and limit movement, which preserves your items.
Put the right amount of pressure on the straps, but not too much. It’s important to put them around doors. You can store items within doors and this allows greater efficiency. Straps can be quite useful, so make sure you take advantage of them but don’t load them up too much or they’ll snap.
Control Mold Growth
If you plan to have your portable container on your property for a long time, moisture may build up and promote mold growth. Use moisture absorbers like Damp-Rid and other items to keep your portable moving container dry. This will keep your items and your lungs in tip-top shape.
Buy a Secure Lock
Unfortunately, it’s pretty easy to break into a portable storage container. This is why you need to purchase a secure lock. Using a pin lock is fairly easy to pick, so have a lock that’s more frustrating for thieves. There is loads of technology today allowing you to have incredibly secure locks. Because your property will essentially be out in the open, it is important to secure it. If you are able to keep the container in view of a camera, this will also be a deterrent.
How to Pack for Moving: Take Your Time
Most damage when moving occurs from rushing. Don’t make haste – take your time and pack everything correctly. This will save you time when unloading and prevent the heartbreak of opening the container and seeing something you love in pieces. Get started with your move today by finding an Onsite Storage location near you.
