Moving Checklist Tips

  • Make an inventory list of all items that will be going in your Pak-All unit.
  • Use moving blankets to protect your items from damage during storage. Moving blankets can be rented or purchased from most Pak-All locations. Ask your Pak-All associate about moving blankets when you schedule your container for delivery.
  • Order packing supplies such as boxes and tape from us.
  • Label boxes and containers.
  • Consider clear plastic containers, which allow you to see contents.
  • Do not store any toxins or flammables.
  • Do not store any food items.
  • Consider a Pak-All protection plan.
  • Wrap fragile items with packing materials such as paper or bubble wrap. You can also use towels and blankets.
  • Fill empty spots in boxes with packing paper or peanuts to keep items from shifting and to protect the box from getting damaged if it’s stacked.
  • Strategically group like items.
  • Apply furniture oil to wooden pieces before storing for added protection.
  • Disassemble larger items such as tables, bed frames, etc. to maximize space and breakage.
  • Put all hardware in bags and label accordingly. Try to tape it inside a drawer to keep things together.
  • Use paper pads when stacking furniture to prevent scratching.
  • Original boxes for electronics are best. If these aren’t available, pack items separately in bubble wrap, cushion foam, or wadded-up newspaper.
  • Label corresponding cords and components by using color-coded stickers.
  • Clean appliances well prior to storing.
  • Leave doors opened slightly, to prevent mildew.
  • Protect appliances from damage with moving blankets.
  • Wrap pictures that are small and stand them on end in boxes.
  • For larger ones, buy special picture moving boxes.
  • Always store mirrors or framed pieces on end, not flat.
  • Buy specialty boxes, designed with dividers, for these types of items.
  • Wrap each item with paper or foam.
  • Label these boxes, “FRAGILE.”
  • Keep clothes on their hangers to save time, and bind them in easy-to-manage groups with zip ties. Pack them in garment bags or create your own with a garbage bag.
  • Hang items on non-rusting hangers.
  • Dresser drawers can be used to save space for storing smaller items.
  • If storing wool items, use cedar chips or mothballs to prevent moth damage.
  • If storing your container in a deed-restricted community, review your homeowner association’s guidelines for container placement.
  • When storing your container on a street, please remember to adhere to local ordinances.
  • If there are items you anticipate needing to access while the Pak-All container is on your property or in a Pak-All facility, pack them last. Load items you won’t need first.
  • Leave some space between your boxes for air circulation.
  • Pack furniture vertically, if possible, to conserve space.
  • Pack lighter boxes on top of heavier ones.
  • Create a diagram that indicates what’s where in your Pak-All container to make items easier to access and unload.