Portable storage containers provide incredible convenience and ample storage space for your belongings and household items. Whether you are moving to a new home or you are just in need of a little more storage, these clever containers provide the storage solution you need. Once your storage container has arrived at your location, packing it up might seem simple enough. However, the right approach and a few simple tips can help you maximize space so you get the most out of your storage container. So, before you begin hauling boxes into your storage container, consider these important tips for maximum efficiency and safety.

1. Evenly Distribute Weight

When you are loading your belongings, it is important to make sure you distribute the weight evenly from end-to-end and side-to-side. To do so, start by packing your heaviest items first. This would include things like furniture and appliances. Try to make sure you distribute the weight of these heavy items evenly throughout the container so they don’t all end up on one side. Uneven weight distribution can cause items to shift and can cause damage to the storage unit and your belongings.

2. Use Uniform Size Boxes

Try to use as many of the same size boxes as possible, as this will make them much easier to stack. This is the best way to maximize space in your storage container. Though it might not be possible to fit everything in the same size box, it will still help tremendously to keep them as uniform as possible.

3. Disassemble Furniture

In order to maximize space, it is always best to disassemble furniture if possible. Removing things like headboards, table legs, and couch legs can allow you to pack these items vertically without taking up too much awkward space.

4. Cover and Wrap Furniture and Appliances

There are certain steps you should take to protect your furniture and appliances from damage while in storage and transit. Wrap soft furniture like sofas with stretch wrap and use moving blankets to cover leather couches and wood furniture. Cover appliances with cardboard or moving blankets and use mattress covers to protect your mattresses. You also want to use bubble wrap when packing and loading things like mirrors and small appliances. You should also place televisions inside a flat-screen TV box.

5. Pack Vertically

Avoid packing all of your items on the floor first, as they will make it impossible to maneuver throughout the unit. Rather, pack boxes and furniture vertically and start by creating a wall around the sides of your container. This will help you make the most use of your space and will also allow for easier access.

6. Install Loading Straps

Most storage containers have points where you can install loading straps and this is highly recommended to protect your items from shifting during transport. Whenever possible, sucre furniture and appliances with ratchet-straps to keep your items safe and secure.

7. Fill In Empty Space

Another way to protect items from jostling and shifting is by filling in the empty space between boxes with soft items such as blankets and pillows. If there’s rom on top of boxes or between them, fill in the gaps with bags of clothing or linens to provide stability.

8. Avoid Packing Restricted Items

While storage containers are a great way to move and store your belongings, there are certain items that should never be stored in a portable storage container. These items include perishable foods, live plants and animals, explosives, flammable items, and firearms. If you are unsure whether or not an item can be stored, check with the portable storage company for a list of prohibited items.