Packing tips

At Shurgard we want you to have a great self storage experience. Below is everything you need to know on how to pack your belongings like a pro.

We can also help you with professional moving boxes and packing supplies. You can buy these  in a selection of our Shurgard stores.

Choose the right box

For every one large box you will need about four small- to medium-size.

Use the smaller boxes for heavy items such as books and dishes; the large boxes for lighter items like bedding, blankets and linens.

Avoid using garbage bags to pack your stuff because they tear easily and lack ventilation, which can result in mildew.

Don’t overload the boxes

Packed boxes should not weigh more than you can comfortably lift. Pack heavy items at the bottom of boxes to provide a stable base.

Make sure they remain “square” and do not bulge at the top or sides. This way they will stay stable when you stack them in your storage unit.

It’s also important to not under pack the boxes. If the box is half empty, the contents can shift during transport, they can also get crushed under the weight of heavier boxes or items. Use foam packing peanuts to fill empty spaces without adding much weight.

Use hanging wardrobe boxes

Prevent wrinkling and damage to trousers, dresses, suits and evening wear by hanging them in a wardrobe box.

With these boxes, you can reduce packing and unpacking time by just moving hung items straight from your closet to the boxes.

You can also use these wardrobe boxes to hang drapes, bedding or to store garden tools or garage items.

Tape your boxes up

Good quality packaging tape is essential. Closing your boxes with packing tape to make sure they maintain their structure and protect your items. Be sure to firmly close the top and bottom flaps with wide tape.

Label your boxes

Use a heavy black marker to label the box. This will save you from having to open every box when you need something later.

Mark the stacking direction

Clearly mark the stacking direction of boxes that contain items that should be stored in a certain way —such as glassware, picture frames and lamps that can otherwise be easily damaged when stored wrongly.

Prep your power tools

If you are storing lawnmowers, weed wackers or leaf blowers, drain their fuel tanks before putting them in your storage unit.

This will prevent other items in your storage unit from adopting a fuel odour and also protect your clothing and other items from being damaged in case of a leak.

Wrap your furniture

Cover and pad furniture with protective materials to keep them in good condition during the moving process and while in storage. Remove cushions from the sofa and wrap or place them in plastic bags.

Make items as small as possible

Many stored items can be made smaller. For example you can reduce the size of bed frames to help them fit more comfortably in your storage space.

Wrap frames together with tape (use the non-sticky side to avoid tape residue) then place any screws in plastic bags and tape them to the frame.

Our self storage tools and tips

Storage size calculator

Select what you need to store, we'll find the perfect unit size. 

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Storage finder

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Moving checklist

Stress less, move better. Use our moving checklist for a smooth move.

Read our moving checklist

Packing tips

Everything you need to know on how to pack and protect your belongings.

Read our packing tips

Storage tips

Tips on how to maximise your space by efficiently arranging your storage unit.

Read our storage tips

Health & safety tips

Here's how to keep you safe during every step of the storage process.

Read our health & safety tips

Housekeeping tips

Get the most out of your storage experience with our housekeeping tips.

Read our housekeeping tips

How to lock your storage unit

Easily secure your storage unit in four simple steps.

Read our lock instructions

Moving out process

All you need to know about moving out of your storage unit.

About moving out

Storing your entire home?

Tell us the size of your home, we'll pick the perfect unit.

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Why store your belongings at Shurgard?

Here are some reasons why Shurgard is great when it comes to storing your belongings.

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Variety of unit sizes

We have a range of storage sizes – so if you don’t have many things, you won’t end up paying for space you’re not using.

Convenient access

Only you can access your storage unit. We offer free and extended access hours, 7 days a week, so you’re free to store or pick up things whenever you need to.

Safe and secure

Our premises are secured with surveillance cameras, perimeter fencing, alarms, individual access codes. You can access your unit with your own lock and key.

No long-term commitment

Our self storage contracts are completely flexible. You just have to inform us 15 days before moving out.

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See what customers say about Shurgard

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4.8/5 - 21084 reviews
Nadeem Ahmad
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I was dealt on 27th nov what a beautiful smiley faces Anthony and Caroline. The customer service was outstanding. the Storage was exactly what i was looking for.I am very impressed with their friendly, respectful and helpful attitude. Thanks to Anthony and Caroline. Highly recommended .
Rabee Maham
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Amazing customer!!! Paul was extremely helpful and friendly. He went above and beyond to help us and get set up with an ideal storage unit. Would highly recommend. :)
A R M
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The friendliest of staff and a first class service. Caroline and Gareth are truly superb.
morad abboumorida
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Fred was extremely helpful and made the process of renting a storage unit seamless. He was knowledgeable, friendly, and went above and beyond to ensure everything was taken care of. Highly recommend!
peruse aclip1234
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I have found the experience to be much informative, actually fun and very straightforward. Siobhan is absolutely fantastic at explaining everything and a wonderful representation of the company. I cant wait to start using my unit!!!
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