Pack into sturdy boxes of similar sizes, don’t overload them, label each one on more than one side, and wrap anything fragile. When you load the unit, put heavier boxes at the bottom and the things you’ll need most near the front, so everything stays steady and easy to find.
Boxes that stack
Boxes of similar sizes stack evenly, which keeps your piles steady for as long as you store. New boxes are the most reliable, and good second-hand ones are fine if they’re strong, dry and clean: our guide to whether you need to buy boxes from us shows how to check.
Don’t overload a box, as heavy boxes can collapse or be hard to lift. Put heavy things like books in smaller boxes, and fill any gaps with packing paper or soft things so the box doesn’t sink under the one above.
Label every box on several sides, not just the top, with what’s inside and the room it came from. Once boxes are stacked, the side is all you’ll see. Our guide to labelling boxes has more ideas.
Fragile things, furniture and mattresses
Wrap fragile items in bubble wrap, packing paper or towels. Furniture covers or old blankets keep off dust and scratches.
Take furniture apart where you can, and tape the small parts, such as screws and fittings, to the piece they belong to, so nothing goes missing. It also saves space.
Put mattresses in a protective mattress bag, but make sure the mattress is completely dry first and don’t seal the bag airtight, so moisture can escape. Our guide to storing a mattress explains more.
Keep everything dry
Avoid plastic bags for clothes and bedding, because they can trap moisture and lead to mould. Boxes or breathable covers are better. Whatever you pack, make sure it’s dry when it goes in.
What to leave out
Leave out food and plants, and never pack anything flammable, such as paint, fuel or gas bottles. Keeping them out stops pests and fire risks reaching anyone’s belongings, yours included. Check our list of items we can’t store before you pack.
Loading the unit
Heavier boxes go at the bottom and lighter ones on top. Keep the things you’ll want often near the front, so you can reach them without unstacking. Trolleys are free to use to help you move everything in, and our guide to stacking boxes safely covers the rest.
Getting packaging
Our online Box Shop sells boxes and packing materials delivered to your door. At Burton, Bath, Chipping Norton and Dorking, you can also buy packaging in store during office hours.
If you still need a unit, get a price online or call us on 0800 2545585 and we’ll help you choose the right size.
Related questions