When you rent a self-storage unit, having the right packing supplies makes all the difference. Whether you're storing furniture, electronics, clothes, or books, using proper materials protects your belongings from damage, dust, water, and even pests. It also helps you maximize space, stay organized, and save money in the long run. Many storage facilities have supplies available on-site, so be sure to check with the office if you need anything.
This guide covers the best types of packing supplies to use, from cushioning and containers to labels, tape, and more, along with practical tips to help you move and store everything safely and efficiently.
1. Sturdy Cardboard Boxes or Plastic Bins
Every good packing process starts with strong containers. Whether you go for plastic bins, crates, or cardboard boxes, choose ones that are durable and come in uniform sizes.
- Cardboard boxes are great for one-time moves and lightweight items.
- Plastic bins offer long-term protection from water, dirt, and pests.
- Uniform sizes make stacking easier and safer in tight spaces.
If you're storing a lot, group boxes by room, item category, or frequency of use to keep things in order.
2. Packing Tape (and a Dispenser)
Secure your containers with high-quality packing tape. Ideally, the heavy-duty kind that sticks well over time.
- Always tape both the top and bottom of each box for extra protection.
- Use a dispenser to speed up the process and avoid wasting tape.
- For fragile items, double-tape the bottoms to prevent breaking during transit.
3. Bubble Wrap, Packing Paper, or Foam Sheets
To protect breakables like glassware, electronics, and decorations, you need proper cushioning.
- Use bubble wrap, foam padding, or packing paper around each item.
- Avoid newspaper; it may leave ink stains on your contents.
- Fill any empty spaces with peanuts or extra paper to prevent shifting.
These supplies help reduce the risk of damage, especially during moves or frequent visits to your storage unit.
4. Furniture Covers and Moving Blankets
Your large furniture pieces, like couches, mattresses, and dressers, deserve attention too.
- Use furniture covers, plastic bags or film, or moving blankets to prevent scratches and keep dust and dirt away.
- Shrink wrap is great for bundling drawers, wrapping wardrobe items, and holding moving parts in place.
- In humid climates, breathable covers are more effective than plastic in preventing trapped moisture.
5. Labels and Permanent Markers
Don’t forget this simple but vital tool: labels.
- Mark each box clearly with its contents, category, and which room it belongs to.
- Label all visible sides so you can identify it regardless of how it's stacked.
- Include a number system if you're creating a full inventory list.
You’ll save time and effort when you need to find something months later.
6. Stretch Wrap (Plastic Wrap)
This is a must-have for securing items in transit or inside your storage unit.
- Wrap it around drawers, cords, or tools to keep them together.
- Prevents dust from getting into hard-to-clean accessories or electronics.
- Great for bundling awkward-shaped items or holding cabinet doors shut.
7. Shelving Units (Optional but Handy)
Want to get the most out of your storage space? Add a shelving unit!
- Keeps containers off the ground and helps prevent damage related to stacking.
- Makes it easier to access items you use more frequently.
- Ideal for organizing by category or frequency of use.
Shelves are a great idea for long-term storage or if you plan to access your unit multiple times.
Proper packing supplies protect your belongings from damage, save space, and keep your storage unit organized and secure during storage or moving.8. Moisture Absorbers or Desiccant Packs
Moisture is one of the biggest threats to items in self storage, especially in non-climate-controlled rooms.
- Use moisture absorbers in sealed containers or enclosed spaces like boxes with clothes or books.
- Place desiccant packs inside bins with electronics or important documents.
These low-cost additions provide an extra layer of protection and can save you from unpleasant surprises later.
9. Gloves and Scissors/Box Cutters
Packing and unpacking can get rough on your hands. Use gloves to avoid cuts and scrapes, and keep a pair of scissors or a box cutter nearby for fast opening.
Also handy:
- Extra tape
- Zip ties
- Twist ties or rope
These accessories keep the packing process smooth and frustration-free.
Bonus: Inventory App or Paper Checklist
If you're storing a large number of items, keep track of everything with a simple list or mobile app.
- Number each box and list the contents by category.
- Note the location inside your storage unit.
- This comes in handy if you're dealing with movers, sharing a unit, or needing a specific item later on.
Conclusion
Using the right packing supplies is one of the best ways to make your self-storage experience safer, smoother, and more efficient. Whether you're storing washers, tools, electronics, or clothes, a little planning goes a long way toward protecting your belongings and keeping your storage unit neat and accessible.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I choose the right boxes for storage?
Start by sorting your belongings into categories, such as clothes, books, electronics, or kitchenware. This makes it easier to select the right type of box based on weight and fragility. Use smaller boxes for heavy items and larger boxes for lighter ones. For long-term storage, plastic bins offer better durability and protection from moisture and pests than cardboard.
2. Are plastic bins better than cardboard boxes?
It depends on what you're storing and how long you plan to store it. Plastic bins are ideal for long-term storage, especially for transport and protecting against water or pests. However, cardboard boxes are more cost-effective for short-term use and easier to label. Consider using a mix of both based on your categories of items.
3. What size moving boxes should I use?
Use a variety of sizes to fit different items. Small boxes are ideal for heavy items, such as books or tools. Medium and large boxes are ideal for clothing, linens, and larger accessories. Don’t overpack large boxes; they become hard to carry and may collapse in transport. It's also a good idea to keep similar items together using dividers or labeled containers.
4. Should I use bubble wrap or packing paper?
Both have their advantages. Use bubble wrap for delicate or breakable items like glassware, electronics, and décor. Packing paper is better for wrapping around less fragile pieces or filling empty spaces inside boxes. You can also add dividers in boxes to separate fragile items for extra safety during transport.
5. Do I need furniture covers for storage?
Yes, furniture covers help protect against dust, dirt, and scratches. Use breathable fabric covers for wood or upholstered pieces to prevent moisture buildup. For added protection, use shrink wrap or blankets during transport and while in storage. It’s a simple way to extend the life of your furniture.
6. How do I protect fragile items during storage?
Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap, use foam padding, and add dividers to boxes. Group similar items by categories to avoid mixing delicate and heavy objects. Clearly label every box as “fragile” and store them near the top of stacks inside your unit. You may also want to pack fragile items into bins with organizers to keep them stable and prevent damage.
7. How can I protect furniture in storage units?
Disassemble pieces when possible, and wrap each part securely with moving blankets or plastic film. Cover surfaces with padding to prevent scratches and store items off the floor when possible. For drawers, wrap or tape them shut to keep everything in place during transport. Keep some space around large items to allow airflow and prevent damage.
8. How do I prevent moisture damage in storage?
Use moisture absorbers, such as silica gel packs, inside plastic bins or boxes. Avoid storing damp items, and keep some airflow by leaving space between boxes and walls. For sensitive categories such as clothes, paper, or electronics, consider storing them in sealed containers with desiccant packs to prevent moisture damage. Using shelves and organizers also helps keep items elevated and dry.
9. How can I label my boxes effectively?
Use permanent markers and write on multiple sides of each box. Include a brief list of contents and indicate if the items are fragile or require special handling (e.g., "This Side Up").
10. Where can I buy the best packing supplies for storage?
Packing supplies can be found at moving supply stores, big-box retailers, online marketplaces, and often directly from your storage facility.
