“It’s in a box somewhere.” It is a familiar phrase during a move. It becomes less amusing when you urgently need your coffee machine, tools or winter coat.
When you put belongings into temporary storage, pack for more than moving day. You will also want to know where everything is a few weeks later. A simple system saves a lot of searching.
Group things you will need together
Sorting by room is a good start, but also think about when you will use your belongings again.
A box of everyday kitchen essentials is more useful than one with coffee cups mixed in with party crockery and baking tins. The same applies to paperwork, hobby equipment and clothes.
Ask yourself about each box: will I need this soon, or can it stay in storage for a few months?
Give every box a number
Write a number and a short description on the top and on a visible side. For example:
- 01 — kitchen: everyday plates and cups.
- 02 — office: cables and accessories.
- 03 — bedroom: winter clothes.
Keep a list with the same numbers on your phone. There is no need to record every object. A few clear keywords are usually enough to identify the right box later.
Keep heavy boxes small
A large box seems useful until you fill it entirely with books. Divide heavy belongings between smaller boxes and use larger ones for lightweight items.
As you pack, check that you can still lift each box comfortably. Fill empty spaces to limit movement inside and secure the bottom carefully.
Make a zone for things you will still need
Plan your storage unit’s layout before loading it. Place anything you are likely to collect first within easy reach near the front.
Will you visit your unit regularly? Leave an access aisle where space allows. It takes up some room, but saves you moving boxes every time.
Put sturdy, heavy boxes at the bottom and lighter ones on top. Avoid leaning stacks and boxes with bottoms that are already sagging.
Take photos before you leave
Once you have loaded your unit, take a few overview photos. Use them alongside your box list: later, you will know both what is there and roughly where to find it.
Still working out how much space you need? Include furniture and boxes in your inventory and get an initial estimate with the Cobalt Box storage calculator. Allow for items that need to remain accessible.
Ready to book your storage unit?
Your boxes are organised and you know what you want to store. Choose a suitable storage unit at Cobalt Box so you can plan the next stage of your move.
Book your storage unit at Cobalt Box.
Want to prepare the rest of your move first? Use our moving checklist. Taking a bed too? Read how to store a mattress with care.
Ready to store your belongings safely?
Discover our storage locations or book directly online.