How to Pack a Storage Unit So Nothing Gets Damaged

Indoor Storage


3G Self Storage
March 3rd, 2026


How to Pack a Storage Unit So Nothing Gets Damaged
Smart Storage Tips for Baldwin City, Ottawa & Lawrence, Kansas

Whether youโ€™re storing furniture during a move, keeping business inventory, or parking an RV for the season, how you pack your storage unit makes a huge difference. Many people assume damage only happens from weather โ€” but most problems actually come from poor packing and stacking. Below is a practical step-by-step guide to help homeowners, renters, and property owners in Baldwin City, Ottawa, and Lawrence protect their belongings in self storage.

TL;DR

  • Use sturdy boxes and label everything
  • Keep items off the floor on pallets or boards
  • Place heavy items on bottom, fragile on top
  • Leave a walking aisle for access
  • Cover furniture but avoid plastic wrap directly on wood
  • Climate-sensitive items need extra protection
  • Store frequently used items near the front

๐Ÿ‘‰ View storage options

Step 1: Start With the Right Supplies

Most storage damage starts before the unit is even filled. Use:
  • Uniform moving boxes (stack better)
  • Furniture covers or blankets
  • Packing paper (not newspaper)
  • Tape & labels
  • Moisture absorbers
  • Pallets or boards

Avoid trash bags โ€” they trap moisture and crush easily.

Step 2: Create a Moisture Barrier

Even clean, dry units can experience temperature changes in Kansas seasons. Always keep items off the concrete floor. Good options:
  • Wooden pallets
  • Plastic shelving
  • 2x4 boards

This protects:
  • Furniture
  • Boxes
  • Decorations
  • Business inventory

Step 3: Pack Furniture the Correct Way

Wood Furniture

Do NOT wrap tightly in plastic. It traps condensation and can warp finishes. Instead:
  • Wrap in moving blankets
  • Then loosely cover with plastic if needed

Mattresses

Use a mattress bag and store it upright.

Tables & Bed Frames

Disassemble when possible โ€” it prevents stress cracks.

Step 4: Stack Like a Warehouse

Professional movers follow a simple rule: Heavy โ†’ Medium โ†’ Light Back of unit
  • Appliances
  • Dressers
  • Tool chests

Middle
  • Boxes
  • Chairs
  • Shelving

Front
  • Fragile items
  • Seasonal decorations
  • Frequently used items

Step 5: Leave an Access Aisle

Many renters fill every inch โ€” then have to unload the whole unit later. Create a narrow walkway from front to back so you can reach:
  • Holiday decorations
  • Business inventory
  • Rental supplies

Step 6: Protect Fragile Items

Wrap individually using paper or bubble wrap. Never pack fragile items inside furniture drawers.
They shift and crack during temperature changes. Good tip: Plates vertically > horizontally (less pressure weight)

Step 7: Storing Seasonal & Business Items

People in Baldwin City often store:
  • Holiday decorations
  • College apartment items (near Baker University)
  • Landscaping tools
  • Rental property supplies
  • Online business inventory

Label boxes by category and season โ€” not just โ€œmiscโ€.

Step 8: Boat, RV & Trailer Storage Prep

Before placing vehicles into outdoor parking:
  • Clean interior
  • Remove food
  • Disconnect batteries
  • Add fuel stabilizer
  • Cover tires

See parking options

Common Questions People Ask Online


Will my stuff get ruined in storage?

Not if packed correctly โ€” poor stacking causes most damage.

Should I cover everything in plastic?

No โ€” breathable covers are safer for furniture.

How long can items stay in storage?

Indefinitely if properly packed and dry.

Are cardboard boxes okay?

Yes โ€” but use sturdy moving boxes, not grocery boxes.

What should never go in a storage unit?

Food, liquids, flammable materials, and live batteries.

Can businesses store inventory?

Yes โ€” many small businesses use mini self-storage to avoid commercial rent.

Cost vs Protection

Spending a little extra on packing materials saves far more than replacing damaged items. Proper packing is the difference between safe long-term storage and costly surprises.

Need Storage Near Baldwin City, Ottawa or Lawrence?

Whether you need mini storage, boat storage, RV/trailer parking, or space for rental property supplies, choosing the right unit โ€” and packing it correctly โ€” keeps everything protected year-round. Browse available units

Serving:

Baldwin City โ€ข Ottawa โ€ข Lawrence โ€ข Douglas County โ€ข Franklin County

3G Self Storage โ€” Secure Local Self Storage & Outdoor Parking for Homeowners, Renters & Businesses

Storage Facility Places Near Me in Baldwin City, Serving Douglas and Franklin County

Are you in search of a top-notch storage facility near Baldwin City, Kansas? Look no further than 3G Self Storage - we've got you covered! Our storage units come in three different sizes - 10'x10', 10'x20', and 10'x40' - so no matter how much you need to store, there's a unit that will work for you. Plus, if you're more of the outdoor storage type, we've got you covered with our RV, car, and boat parking options. Most importantly, we take the security of your belongings seriously - our facility is fenced and gated with security cameras, so you can rest easy. And with our convenient online bill pay option, managing your storage unit has never been easier! We're proud to serve the Baldwin City community, as well as Ottawa, Pleasant Grove, Wellsville, Worden, Vinland, Sibleyville, Centropolis, Lawrence, and beyond. So what are you waiting for? Come check us out today!