How to pack a portable storage container

Relocation is all about choosing the right moving and packing solutions. An invention of PODS (portable storage containers) has revolutionized the way people move and store their belongings. This practical and handy equipment has changed the face of the moving industry, and we use them more and more. While moving trucks make moving easier, they also tend to be more expensive and less convenient than PODS. Storage pods are an amazing combination of moving truck and storage unit in one. And they are a great alternative to moving trucks and storage units, with no time constraints. In order to get the most of your POD, you need to learn to pack a portable storage container first.

Where to start?

Before you start packing your belongings, you need to know how the process works. The moving company you rent from will deliver an empty storage pod to your home. They will leave it at ground level for easy loading and unloading. POD can stay on your property for as long as you need it unless local regulations prohibit doing so, of course. This way, you will have plenty of time to gives you plenty of time to pack your storage pod in peace. And once you are ready to move the unit, you just notify your movers. Then the company moves the unit for you to your new address or to a storage facility. Most noteworthy, storage pods are waterproof and weatherproof, with a capacity of one or two rooms of stuff.

 

Preparation before packing and loading

This is the moment to discuss the prices and make sure you are getting the best option you can afford. Prepare your moving budget and talk to your movers about the total price. Good news is that PODS are more cost-effective than moving trucks. And before you pack your POD, you will need to prepare your belongings properly. Our advice is to use as many of the same sized boxes as possible, in order for your items to best fit in the unit. Most importantly, don’t overload boxes, but aim for a firm pack for extra protection. Also, make sure that the bottoms of boxes are sturdy. If they don’t seem that way, you can reinforce them with duck tape. This way you will have strong boxes you can build sturdy walls with throughout your storage container.

Packing supplies wanted

Just as in any job you perform, the right materials and tools serve to make the job easier. So, before you start to pack a portable storage container, make sure you have all the packing supplies you might need. One of the most important long distance moving tips is to pack your belongings well enough to make sure they arrive safely to your new location. Here is a list of basic materials you should purchase:

• A dolly
• Moving boxes
• Duck tape
• Loading straps
• Paper pads
• Furniture pads
• Stretch wrap

Beside these packing essentials you need, you can always add some for special items and more protection. Furthermore, a stretch wrap, loading straps and furniture and paper pads will keep your items safe and free from damage. The dolly is necessary for moving heavy or cumbersome appliances and large furniture pieces.

Now you should wrap your upholstered furniture with the stretch wrap to protect it against damage and dirt. Also, use the paper pads and furniture pads to wrap items that may scratch other items or themselves. Place your wrapped furniture on top of a furniture pad when loading it in the moving container in order to protect it more thoroughly.

How to pack a portable storage container

Remember, the heaviest, bulkiest items should be loaded first in the POD. This includes the washing machine, refrigerator, dryer, bed, sofa, and other large and heavy items. Fill in the gaps between the larger items with packed boxes and other items. Not only this increases your packing efficiency but it also adds stability and reduces the risk of the larger items sliding around.

For the same reason, place the heaviest boxes on the bottom and lighter ones on the top. Make sure you use the space well, by packing from floor to ceiling. Also, the tighter you pack the boxes, the less likely things will shift during the move.

When you pack a portable storage container, think about the weight distribution of your items. This means you should try to keep the weight evenly distributed from end to end and from side to side. For example, if you place a heavy washer in the far left corner of the storage container, place something of similar weight, like a refrigerator, in the far right corner. This way you will keep everything balanced.

I  case your storage container has a plastic, translucent roof and you are planning to store it outside on your driveway for an extended period of time, cover your belonging inside. Use the moving blankets or cardboard in order to protect them from exposure to light.

In every storage container, there are points where you can install loading straps. Use loading straps at these points to secure the items inside the POD. But be careful not to tighten the straps too tightly and damage your items.

Good luck!

By following these tips on how to pack a portable storage container you will ensure your items arrive in the exact same condition as they were packed. If you get the right tools and materials and take the time to do the job right, you will have nothing to worry about. We really hope these tips have helped and that you will enjoy your new home to the fullest, good luck!