Amy’s Attic Packing Tips

Packing correctly before moving belongings into storage can help prevent damage, reduce clutter, make better use of your unit, and save time when you need to retrieve something later.

The best way to pack for storage is to clean and dry every item, use sturdy boxes or stackable containers, protect fragile belongings, label boxes clearly, and create an inventory. Heavy boxes should remain manageable and should be placed below lighter containers. Frequently used belongings should stay near the front of the storage unit.

Whether you are moving, downsizing, renovating your home, preparing for deployment, storing business inventory, or clearing boxes from attic spaces, this Amy’s Attic storage packing guide can help you prepare your belongings properly.

Amy’s Attic Self Storage serves customers across Belton, Harker Heights, Killeen, Salado, Temple, Temple-Moffat, and Waco. Explore our Central Texas storage locations or view current rates and available storage units when you are ready to reserve space.

Storage Packing Supplies Checklist

Gathering the right supplies before you begin can make packing safer and more efficient.

Consider preparing:

Sturdy moving boxes in several sizes
Stackable plastic storage containers
Packing tape
Permanent markers
Printed labels
Bubble wrap
Unprinted packing paper
Furniture pads
Moving blankets
Mattress and box spring covers
Wardrobe boxes
Small resealable bags for furniture hardware
Freestanding storage shelves
Pallets, plywood, or short pieces of 2 x 4 lumber
An inventory list or digital spreadsheet
A dolly or hand truck for heavier belongings

Use containers that are strong enough for the items inside and easy for you or your movers to carry safely. Similar-sized boxes are usually easier to stack, while smaller boxes are better for books, tools, and other heavy belongings.

Packing and Storage Dos:

Use pallets, 2 x 4’s, plywood, any thing that will keep your items off the floor of the unit.

Label the boxes on all six sides and keep a list for easy reference. This will save you time if you have to look for something in particular. When packing boxes fill them without making them too heavy to lift. Always put the heavier boxes on the bottom and the lighter ones on top of the heavier ones. This will prevent boxes from being crushed. Keep boxes off the floor.

Make sure that all appliances are clean and dry before storing them. Leave appliances slightly ajar to prevent mildew.

If it is possible store couches on end. Stack chairs seat to seat. Use the inside of appliances and drawers to store smaller items. When stacking furniture use paper pads in between the items to avoid scratching.

When wrapping collectibles or anything breakable, tape it after you wrap it. This should avoid mistaking them for excess paper to fill the box. Use bubble wrap or unprinted paper to wrap breakables. Group similar items together and mark the boxes accordingly.

Keep out of season clothes accessible, you may have your belongings in storage longer than anticipated.

Utilize all the space in your unit. Make a plan as to how you are going to arrange your items. A good plan will save you the time of having to rearrange your unit. Leave an aisle in the center of your unit so that you have a walk way to the back of the unit.

Be sure to store frequently used items at the front of the unit to avoid having to search for them.

Disassemble items such as tables, bed frames, etc. This will save space. Wrap and label all pieces for an easier time when you have to reassemble them. Put all hardware in bags and mark the bags accordingly.

Store mattresses and box springs on long edges. Wrap for protection and elevate off the floor. Use two to three 2 x 4’s cut to 1 foot long.

To prevent rusting rub a small amount of machine oil on metal tools, bicycles, and equipment. Drain and clean all debris from all equipment before you store them.

Rubbermaid containers are great to store your items. They have tight fitting lids and stack easily. Keep the more valuable items in the rear of the unit. This will prevent others from seeing them when you are in your unit.

Use freestanding shelves to help organize your unit.

To protect your items cover them with moving pads, sheets, or light blankets.

Be sure to check your unit once a month.

When you disassemble electronics, such as computers, stereos, things that have numerous cords, place small colored stickers on the cord and the same color sticker where the cord goes. This will save you the hassle of trying to figure out what goes where when it comes time to reassemble your electronics. If possible, use the original boxes to store your electronics and other items.

Store mirrors and paintings on end, not flat. Pack books flat to protect their spines.

Clothing and draperies should be stored in wardrobe boxes, on hangers, to retain their original shapes.

Purchase the insurance. If your belongings are worth storing, they are worth insuring.

Be aware of your surroundings when you are in your unit. If you see a potential problem or anything suspicious alert the manager.

Packing and Storage Don’ts:

Do not use printed newspaper for wrapping. The ink may smudge and get on your items.

Do not use plastic to cover your belongings. It retains moisture.

Do not store any toxins or flammables such as paint, oil, or gasoline.

Do not store any food items. This will prevent any unwanted guests.

Do not assume that your homeowners or renters insurance will cover your belongings while in storage. Purchase the insurance.

Do not forget to clean appliances before you store them.

Do not pack your boxes so that they are too heavy to carry them. Especially when you are packing books.

Do not give out your password, gate code or any information to any one that is not listed as having access.

Need Help Choosing a Storage Unit?

Packed and ready, but unsure which storage unit size will fit your belongings?

Amy’s Attic offers multiple unit sizes and storage features for customers across Central Texas. Explore our storage unit features or find a nearby Amy’s Attic location for assistance.

(855) 426-9728

Should You Keep Boxes in Attic Spaces or Use Self Storage?

Keeping boxes in attic spaces may seem convenient, but attics can experience significant temperature changes and may be difficult to access safely.

Items that may be vulnerable in a home attic include:

Electronics
Photographs
Important documents
Books
Wooden furniture
Leather belongings
Clothing and fabrics
Musical instruments
Collectibles
Porcelain dolls
Artwork
Candles and heat-sensitive items

If you already have boxes in attic spaces, inspect each container before moving it. Look for moisture, weakened cardboard, pest activity, fading, warping, or unusual odors.

Replace damaged containers and make sure every item is clean and dry before moving it into a self-storage unit.

For sensitive belongings or long-term storage, consider whether a climate-controlled storage unit is appropriate.

Packing for Central Texas Heat and Humidity

Central Texas weather can create additional concerns for belongings stored over several months or years.

Climate-controlled storage may be useful for:

Electronics
Photographs
Important records
Books
Musical instruments
Wooden furniture
Leather
Artwork
Collectibles
Sensitive fabrics
Some household appliances

Before packing:

Clean every item
Allow belongings to dry completely
Avoid trapping moisture beneath plastic coverings
Use suitable containers
Add labels to multiple sides
Keep sensitive belongings off the floor
Check the unit periodically
Follow manufacturer storage recommendations

Climate control does not replace correct packing, but it can provide a more stable environment for belongings that may be affected by temperature changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Way to Pack Boxes for Long-Term Storage?

Use sturdy boxes or suitable storage bins, place heavier items at the bottom, fill empty spaces with packing material, and keep each container light enough to move safely. Seal and label the box on multiple sides, then add it to a written or digital inventory.

Are Plastic Bins or Cardboard Boxes Better for Storage?

Plastic bins are stackable and may provide additional protection from dust and incidental moisture. Cardboard boxes are affordable, widely available, and useful for many household belongings. The best option depends on the item, storage duration, budget, and storage environment.

How Heavy Should a Storage Box Be?

A storage box should be light enough for the person moving it to lift and carry safely. Dense belongings such as books, tools, dishes, and documents should be placed in smaller boxes. Use a hand truck or ask another person for help with heavier containers.

What Items Cannot Be Stored in a Self-Storage Unit?

Prohibited items generally include food, fuel, gasoline, oil, explosives, fireworks, propane tanks, toxic materials, wet belongings, living creatures, stolen property, illegal items, and other hazardous materials. Always check the facility’s rental agreement before moving in.

Should Furniture Be Wrapped in Plastic for Storage?

Avoid tightly sealing wood, leather, upholstered furniture, mattresses, or fabrics in non-breathable plastic for extended storage. Trapped moisture may affect the item. Use furniture pads, moving blankets, clean sheets, or breathable covers designed for storage.

Do I Need Climate-Controlled Storage in Central Texas?

Climate-controlled storage may be appropriate for electronics, artwork, photographs, records, books, wood furniture, musical instruments, leather, collectibles, and other belongings that may be sensitive to changing temperatures or humidity.

How Do I Choose the Correct Storage Unit Size?

Create an inventory and measure large furniture, appliances, and equipment. Estimate the number and size of your boxes, then decide whether you need an aisle for regular access. Compare your list with available unit sizes or ask the Amy’s Attic team for guidance.

Find Storage Near You in Central Texas

Packing carefully now can make moving, long-term storage, and retrieval easier later.

Amy’s Attic Self Storage offers clean and convenient storage options for homeowners, renters, students, military families, businesses, and people preparing for a move or renovation.

Browse Amy’s Attic storage locations, compare available units and current rates, or call 855-426-9728 for storage packing assistance and help choosing the right unit.

Call Amy’s Attic at (855) 426-9728