Access Self Storage

How to pack safely, move house and self store

Our 15 top hints and tips

1. Make a list of what you intend to store, especially larger or unusually-shaped items. Note items that can fold down or be taken apart to make more space, such as beds. This will help you make the best use of space and get the best value from your packing materials.
2. Calculate the value of what you have to store and arrange insurance cover. This can be done at your Access Self Storage Centre and must be taken out prior to moving in.
3. Buy good quality packing materials - cardboard boxes, bubble wrap, foam wrap and tape. To see our comprehensive and honestly-priced range, visit our box shop.
4. Fill boxes completely - stacks of partly-filled or bulging cardboard boxes may tip or collapse - and distribute weight evenly.
5. Store heavy items in smaller boxes for easier lifting. Store china and breakables in strong cardboard and plastic boxes, packing with plenty of bubble wrap, tissue paper or loose fill.
6. Hang your clothes - Access offer wardrobe boxes for careful clothes storage.
7. Label all boxes clearly to help when retrieving goods from your storage unit and unpacking.
8. Cover all furniture with dust sheets and remember to protect table and chair legs with bubble wrap or foam wrap to avoid scratching, and use foam corners on picture and mirror frames. For further information, view our protective packing products.
9. Allow large and heavy items to form the base of any stack in your storage room, with lighter items at the top.
10. Using a chest of drawers or wardrobes to store boxes and paperwork will give extra flexibility and make good use of space.
11. Position items that you will need access to at the front of your storage unit.
12. Avoid stacking or leaning furniture against outside walls as this may prevent proper ventilation.
13. Make sure that fridges and freezers are fully defrosted to prevent water damage, and leave the doors open to allow ventilation.
14. Clean all garden furniture before storing and make sure that your lawnmower is drained of petrol.
15. Purchase a padlock to secure your unit. If there will be more than one person accessing the unit, you might find a combination padlock convenient. You can buy yours from any Access Self Storage centre; ours are hand-made in the UK and are very tough.