Smart Packing Strategies for Long-Term Storage: Expert Tips from OIS Removals, London

Packing personal items and furniture for long-term storage requires careful planning and execution to ensure that your belongings remain in good condition. Drawing from expert advice and incorporating insights from OIS Removals, a leading storage company in London, this article offers practical tips for effective packing and storage.

1. Deciding What to Store

Evaluate Your Items: Only store items you plan to use again. Inspect each item for its value, sentimentality, and utility. Overstoring can lead to unnecessary costs.

2. Inventory Management

Create an Inventory List: This helps you keep track of stored items and assists in filing insurance claims if needed. Keep electronic and physical copies of the list.

3. Choosing the Right Containers

Opt for Quality Containers: Clear plastic bins are often the best choice. If using cardboard boxes, ensure they are dry, sturdy, and free from infestation. Avoid plastic bags, as they trap moisture and promote mold growth.

4. Restricted Items

Avoid Hazardous Materials: Don’t pack perishable, flammable, explosive, or wet items. High-value items should be kept at home for safety.

5. Preparing Items for Storage

Cleaning and Drying: Thoroughly clean and dry each item. Treat leather with conditioner and disassemble large furniture for better protection.

6. Special Considerations for Clothes and Furniture

Clothes: Use wardrobe boxes or vacuum-sealed bags to protect clothes from dust, wrinkles, and mold.
Furniture: Clean, disassemble, and wrap furniture pieces, especially legs and fragile areas. Utilize storage space within furniture for smaller items.

7. Mattress Storage

Mattress Care: If storing beds, ensure mattresses are properly packed and protected.

8. Assessing Furniture Value

Worth Storing? Evaluate each furniture piece for functionality, condition, quality, and sentimental value. Consider the cost of storage versus replacement.

9. Storage Location

Choosing the Right Space: Attics, basements, or garages may suffice for short-term or minimal storage. However, for long-term or delicate items like antiques, a warehouse storage unit is recommended.

10. Preparation for Storage

Cleaning and Polishing: Ensure all surfaces are clean. Vacuum upholstery, clean wood surfaces, and polish metal sections.

OIS Removals: Your Storage Expert in London

Tailored Services: OIS Removals caters to a variety of storage needs, including for business, renters, landlords, AirBnB hosts, and travelers. They offer free collection, insurance, and protective materials, charging only for the space needed. Their comprehensive service includes wrapping larger items like sofas and mattresses.
Reputation: With over two decades in the industry, OIS Removals has built a reputation for reliability and professionalism, as reflected in their customer reviews and ratings.

Packing for long-term storage is a task that requires attention to detail. By following these guidelines and considering the expert services of a company like OIS Removals, you can ensure your belongings are well-protected during their storage period.