Preparing Items For Storage During a Move
New Era Moving – Trusted Movers Serving Toronto and the GTA
The Importance of Preparing Items For Storage During a Move
When planning a move in Toronto, whether it’s across the street or across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), many people find that they need temporary storage for some of their belongings. Maybe the new home isn’t ready yet, you’re downsizing, or you just need time to organize. Whatever the reason, preparing items for storage properly is key to keeping them safe, secure, and damage-free.
At New Era Moving, we help Toronto residents with both moving and short-term storage solutions, including tips for preparing items for storage like a pro. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the best practices for protecting your belongings before they go into a storage unit—especially if you’re doing the packing yourself.
Why Proper Storage Preparation Matters
Even short-term storage can pose risks if your items aren’t packed properly. Without the right prep work, your belongings may get damaged from:
- Moisture and humidity
- Dust and dirt
- Improper stacking or shifting
- Pests and insects
- Temperature changes
By preparing items for storage the right way, you’ll keep them in excellent condition and avoid unnecessary costs or frustration later on.
- Sort and Declutter Before You Pack
Start by going through all your belongings and separating what you actually want to keep. There’s no point in storing things you don’t use or need. Donate, sell, or recycle items you can part with before packing what will go into storage.
This step not only makes preparing items for storage easier, but it also helps reduce the size (and cost) of your storage unit.
- Clean Everything Thoroughly
Before packing anything away, clean all your items—especially clothing, furniture, appliances, and kitchen items.
- Wipe down furniture with a mild cleaner to remove dust or oils.
- Wash and dry clothes, bedding, and curtains completely.
- Clean out appliances like refrigerators or microwaves and let them dry to prevent mold.
- Vacuum upholstered furniture.
Clean items store better and are less likely to develop odors or attract pests.
- Use the Right Packing Supplies
Using cheap or worn-out boxes can lead to crushed belongings, broken valuables, or items shifting in storage. Invest in quality supplies when preparing items for storage:
- Sturdy cardboard boxes or plastic bins with lids
- Packing tape and markers
- Bubble wrap or packing paper
- Plastic furniture covers or moving blankets
- Silica gel or moisture absorbers (especially for long-term storage)
At New Era Moving, we also offer professional packing materials and can advise you on what supplies work best for your specific items.
- Label Boxes Clearly
When preparing items for storage, labeling is key. Use a permanent marker to write the contents and destination room on each box (e.g., “Kitchen – Pots & Pans”).
This simple step will save you time and stress when you go to unpack or need to retrieve something while your items are still in storage.
- Disassemble Large Furniture
Large items like bed frames, desks, and dining tables should be disassembled when possible. This makes them easier to move and store efficiently.
- Keep all screws and bolts in a labeled bag taped to the furniture piece
- Wrap each component in a furniture blanket or bubble wrap
- Place legs, arms, or detachable parts together to avoid misplacement
At New Era Moving, our trained team can help disassemble and wrap furniture for customers who prefer not to DIY.
- Protect Fragile Items
Fragile items need extra care when preparing items for storage. Wrap glassware, mirrors, dishes, and electronics in plenty of padding. Use bubble wrap, foam sheets, or newspaper, and make sure items are packed tightly so they don’t shift.
- Use dish pack boxes for glassware and china
- Mark boxes as “FRAGILE” on all sides
- Avoid stacking fragile boxes under heavy items
- Prepare Appliances for Storage
Appliances like refrigerators, washers, and dryers should be cleaned, unplugged, and completely dried before storing.
- Defrost and dry refrigerators and freezers
- Leave appliance doors slightly open to prevent odors or mold
- Tape cords securely and remove any detachable parts
- Use appliance covers or moving blankets for protection
- Consider Temperature Factors
In Toronto, the temperature can vary drastically—hot, humid summers and cold, dry winters. Depending on what you’re storing, a temperature-controlled storage unit might be necessary to protect your items from damage caused by temperature and moisture.
If you’re storing items like wood furniture, electronics, leather goods, or artwork, speak to New Era Moving about temperature-protected options.
- Stack and Organize Smartly
Stack heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter ones on top. Leave a small aisle inside the storage unit so you can access items without unpacking everything. Avoid overfilling boxes, and try to keep everything off the ground by using pallets if the floor isn’t temperature-controlled.
- Keep Essentials with You
If there’s even a small chance you’ll need something while your items are in storage, keep it with you. Examples:
- Important documents
- Tools
- Medication
- Daily-use clothing
- Chargers or tech devices
Why Choose New Era Moving for Storage in Toronto?
New Era Moving is proud to offer flexible, affordable storage options to homeowners and renters across Toronto, Ontario, and the GTA. Whether you need short-term storage during a move or a safe space for a few months, we’re here to help every step of the way.
Here’s what makes us a top choice for preparing items for storage:
✔️ Clean and secure storage units
✔️ Friendly, professional advice for DIY packers
✔️ Packing supplies and moving materials available
✔️ Temperature-protected storage options upon request
✔️ Affordable short-term and long-term pricing
✔️ Pickup and delivery options available
Final Thoughts
Preparing items for storage might feel like an extra chore in the middle of your move—but it can make a world of difference when it comes to protecting your belongings and making your life easier later on.
At New Era Moving, we’re here to guide Toronto residents through every part of their move, including how to store items safely and smartly. Whether you’re doing it yourself or want help from our team, we’re committed to making your moving and storage experience as smooth and stress-free as possible.
Contact New Era Moving Today
Need help preparing items for storage in Toronto or the GTA?
Call New Era Moving for expert advice, quality materials, and reliable local storage options. We’re here to make your move safer, easier, and more organized—every step of the way. Contact us today!
