How to load and unload your portable storage like a pro

The way that people are relocating has developed so much in the last decades. Today, we don’t have only one way of moving or one type of equipment to do so. On the contrary, there are so many options to choose from, that you will certainly find something for yourself easily. For example, portable storage units have changed the face of the moving industry. If you choose to use them, you will probably need some guidelines. Here are some tips on how to load and unload portable storage like a pro.

Preparation is the key to load and unload your portable storage like a pro

Before you pack your portable storage unit, you will need to prepare your belongings for storage. If you want your items to fit in the unit properly, you should follow these rules:

• Use as many of the same-sized boxes as possible
• Don’t overload them
• Always add some extra protection
• Reinforce the bottom and top of each box with tape

Packing supplies

First, get all the necessary packing supplies in order to pack all your items properly. Hiring a professional moving company would solve this problem in the blink of an eye. They would provide all the necessary packing supplies. But, if you have to purchase them by yourself, get everything as soon as possible and don’t waste your time. You will need:

• Moving boxes in several sizes
• Plastic wrap
• Packing papers
• Furniture pads
• Cushion foam or bubble wrap
• Moving blankets for fragile items
• Dolly or a hand truck

Make a plan of what, when, and how to load

When you want to load and unload your portable storage, you need to have a plan. Most importantly, you need to create a solid foundation that won’t shift during transportation. This way, your items won’t get damaged during transportation. Here are tips on how to do so.

Create a wall

Pack your belongings from floor to ceiling, creating a wall on one side or end of the portable storage until they reach the ceiling of the unit. Try to pack boxes and other items as tightly as possible, in order to evenly distribute weight and keep them from shifting during the move.

Distribute weight

To load and unload your portable storage like a pro, you need to distribute weight. When loading boxes and other large items, such as furniture, try to distribute their weight evenly. Do it from side-to-side and end-to-end of the container. Start by loading some of your heavier items, such as furniture and appliances, on the bottom. If you can’t get good weight distribution with your things, just place the heaviest items in the center of the portable storage and lighter items on top.

Fill any open spaces

Fill all open spaces with boxes and small items in order to provide stability. If there are gaps between the top of the boxes and the ceiling, place some soft items on top of the boxes. Use bags of clothing or linens. Bikes and other odd-shaped items can go on top of boxes or near the doors. Remove the legs from furniture and put large items, such as sofas, on end. This way you will maximize space. If you have a mattress to pack, load it last to add stability.

Ask for help

Relocating is not something we do every day, and definitely not something you can do on your own. Actually, you will need all the help we can get from our friends, family or neighbors. So, inform your friends and family about your relocation and they will most likely help you load and unload your portable storage unit. With their help, everything will go much faster.