10 Tips for Packing Your Moving Containers Like a Pro

Moving can be an exciting and stressful time. Whether you are moving across town or across the country, packing your belongings can be a daunting task. Fortunately, shipping containers can make your move easier by providing a convenient and secure way to transport your possessions. Here are the top 10 tips for packing your shipping containers like a pro.

Plan Ahead

1. Before you start packing, make a plan. Determine what items you will be moving, how many containers you will need, how many cardboard boxes or totes you will need, and how you will arrange your belongings inside the container. This will help you stay organized and save time during the packing process.

Use the Right Container

2. Choosing the right container for your move is essential. Most people find that a 20 foot shipping container is the best option for everything from a 2-3 bedroom home.  If you have a very large amount of belongings needing storage, but don’t need the container to be transported, a 40 foot shipping container stored off-site may be an option. A small apartment move may only require enough space for a 10 foot shipping container. Be sure to check with the company that their container rental service includes the option to move a container loaded.

Clear Out Clutter

3. Before you start packing, go through your belongings and get rid of any items you no longer need or want. We recommend doing this several weeks before your actual move date. This will help you save space in the container and reduce your moving costs. You can have a yard sale with all of your unwanted items, or donate them locally.

Invest in Packing Supplies

4. Investing in high-quality packing supplies can make a big difference when it comes to protecting your belongings in portable storage. Be sure to stock up on Medium-sized Boxes, Paper Packing Tape, and Plastic Wrap or Moving Blankets to keep your items safe.

Pack Heavy Items on the Bottom

5. When packing your container, always place heavier items on the bottom. This will help keep the container balanced and prevent items from shifting during transport. It will also prevent lighter items from being crushed or damaged by heavier items on top of them. 

Use Padding

6. Use padding to protect your fragile items during transport. Bubble wrap and packing peanuts are great options for fragile items, while towels or blankets can be used for larger items. This will prevent your items from breaking or becoming damaged as Boxes are being moved in and out of your space.

Label Everything

7. Labeling your boxes and containers will make it easier to unpack and alleviate a lot of stress when you arrive at your destination. You don’t need an elaborate labeling system, just be sure to mark the room they belong in and possibly include a brief description of the contents.

Fill Gaps

8. When packing your container, try to build a “wall” of similar sized Boxes, then fill any gaps near the ceiling with padding or smaller items. This is where suitcases, sleeping bags, laundry hampers can go. Building a wall of Moving Boxes or Totes will help prevent items from shifting during transport and reduce the risk of damage.

Secure Your Belongings

9. Before closing your shipping container, you may secure your belongings with straps or bungee cords. Most containers have d-ring loops along the floor and the ceiling to easily secure a rope to. This will help keep items in place during transport and reduce the risk of damage.

Use a Container Rental for Convenience

10. If you need more time to pack or need portable storage space after your move, consider searching for portable storage near me. Portable storage containers can be delivered to your home, allowing you to pack at your own pace and store your belongings until you are ready to move. You can rent a container for any extended period of time if needed, while working on renovations or simply taking as much time as you want or need during the packing and unpacking process.

Packing your shipping containers like a pro requires a bit of planning and preparation. By following these 10 tips, you can ensure that your belongings are packed securely and arrive at your destination in good condition. Whether you are moving across town or across the country, shipping containers can make your move easier and more convenient. Look for shipping containers for sale near me or container rental services to find the right container for you.

Contact our Get Simple Box team today to learn more about our containers and how we can help you with your storage needs.