Moving - Tips for Effective Storage

The key to a successful relocation either cross country or locally is effective storage throughout the loading and unloading steps. During the moving process substantial disorganization and disorder can occur if not prepared. Consequently following a few important tips can make the difference between a smooth or strenuous transfer. The following tips will help guide you in the right direction. These suggestions include:

• Loading specific items
• Systematically loading the truck
• Wrapping objects
• Box placement
• Carrying papers

Loading Specific Items

One of the most important tips to remember is to load the heaviest objects first. This ensures the truck will remain balanced on the road despite the extra added weight. Common items placed against the front wall of the truck include bureaus, china cabinets, refrigerators, heavy appliances and sofas. Make sure to use protective wrap on sofas and mattresses to lessen potential damage. Next pack objects like tables, chairs, bookcases and desks that tend to be a little lighter. Finally, the lightest, most-used items should be loaded closest to the door for easy access. To ensure all items fit properly, the correct truck must be rented. A truck too small may result in multiple trips or damaged items. A truck too large could cause damage due to a loose storage. Also, it’s important to store large, flat items like mirrors, tabletops, mattresses and box springs against the walls of the truck while properly tying for security.

Systematically Loading the Truck

As you’re loading different objects, it’s advantageous to pack a quarter at a time. This will allow for a tight, thorough job from the floor to the ceiling thus minimizing the amount of damage that can occur during transit. Also during this step, attach the ropes to the tie down rings to secure each quarter of objects added. This is a further safety precaution and prevents damage.

Wrapping Objects

Mirrors, pictures and any other objects with glass or fragile surfaces should be wrapped with protective padding and proper moving materials. Another excellent protection method is to use a special mirror carton. Due to the modular design, this will make storage of odd-shaped mirrors easy as well as act as a protection device. Make sure to have the proper materials prior to the moving process.

Box Placement

The proper placement of boxes is tremendously important for both safety and damage control. Simply put, stack lighter boxes on top of heavier ones. This will ensure the heavier items will not crush the lighter boxes below. It will also decrease damage to the packed components during sudden braking or acceleration.

Carrying Papers

The most important tip throughout the transfer is to ensure all pertinent papers are stored in an easy to access location in case any issues arise. These include addresses, directions, rental agreements and important phone numbers. If some type of problem does arise, you want to be completely prepared. Moving can be an exhausting task without the proper steps taken for preparation. Loading the truck in a systematic and organized manner will help you unload quickly and efficiently.