Essential Packing Supplies

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Preparing items for storage seems straight forward, right? Well, it isn’t as easy as it seems. Unless your not too phased about the well-being of your belongings. 

When getting stuff ready for self storage or just packing away things for the winter months. You want to ensure that you pack your items correctly and the best you can. This will help to protect your belongings from potential damage. 

But what do you need to ensure you do the job properly? You’ll need the following packing supplies, as well as great packing skills. If you want to unpack your items in the same condition that you packed them away that is.

Boxes

Probably the number 1 packing supply, you’ll need lots of good quality moving boxes. Moving boxes can come in all shapes and sizes, as well as quality. Don’t go the cheapest option when buying moving boxes. You don’t want the bottom falling out when you’re walking down the street or anywhere else. 

In addition, there are standard moving boxes that are suitable for most things. Along with speciality boxes, like a TV box, which is worth the extra expense. 

Also ensure that you don’t pack your boxes too heavy. It’s best to make sure you’re able to safely lift them on your own. If you can’t lift them on your own, you’ve probably over-packed it. 

Bubble Wrap

Don’t underestimate the importance of bubble wrap. Bubble wrap will help protect your fragile and more breakable items from potential damage. Plus, it’s great for wrapping up those oddly shaped items.

In addition, try to avoid using old sheets, towels or paper as these materials will not provide the same protection as bubble wrap will. 

Labelling Materials / Permanent Marker

Label your items as you pack. You want to be able to identify what’s in each box without having to sift through it. Some people may be happy with using a permanent marker to label their moving boxes and some may prefer proper moving labels. It doesn’t necessarily matter how you choose to label your boxes, as long they are labelled clearly. 

Furthermore, make sure you label your boxes on multiple sides. This will help when trying to find items in your storage unit.

Heavy Duty Packing Tape

Another key packing supply is heavy duty packing tape. You want to ensure you buy durable tape that’s strong and sticky. It’ll also make it easier if you have a proper tape gun to go with it. This way you won’t lose the end of the roll and the tape will dispense a lot easier and quicker.

Fragile Packing Tape

A great way to ensure your breakable items are going to be safe is to purchase a roll of fragile tape. This may seem excessive, however if you don’t want your items damaged, this is a great extra step to take. The tape stands out and helps to avoid breakages as people are aware that the box contains fragile items.

Now You’re Ready to Pack for Self Storage

These are all essential packing supplies. They will help to ensure your items are stored correctly and avoid damage whilst in self storage. Plus, they’ll also make it easier when you need to locate something within your storage unit.

In addition, any of these packing supplies can be purchased from Store Ur Stuff at affordable prices. Our box shop makes us a convenient Adelaide Storage Facility, offering everything you need right here on site. Stop by to pick up some supplies or pre-purchase them online – it’s that easy!

Looking for self storage in Adelaide? Check out our storage solutions online or give our friendly staff a call on 8371 0000.

Moving Boxes

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Moving boxes are an essential item when moving house. They keep all your loose and fragile items together and protected while in transit. However not any old cardboard box will do. It is important that you invest in quality moving boxes to transport and store your items. Boxes designed especially for moving will better protect its contents in the move. These boxes are also made out of double corrugated cardboard to make them stronger to handle heavy household items such as books, crockery and knick knacks. They are uniform in size making them easier to stack more steadily. As mentioned in organising your storage unit, boxes stack easily which is important to consider when stacking them into a moving truck as well as a storage unit.

Where can I get moving boxes?

Most self storage facilities and removalist companies stock a range of moving boxes to purchase. Many people see purchasing moving boxes an additional expense in an already very expensive period. Some storage facilities sell second hand boxes which will cut some of the expense. When purchasing second hand cardboard boxes make sure they are still in good condition and the strength of the box has not been compromised where sticky tape has been removed or by dents and tears. Also ensure there is room left on the cardboard box for you to label them clearly. Some facilities even buy back your boxes once you have finished with them, making the expense minimal in the long run.

Which moving boxes will I need?

If you have ever gone to a self storage facility to purchase moving boxes you will notice that there is a large range and almost a box to pack anything. There are speciality boxes like bike boxes, golf boxes, wine boxes and even map boxes. There are standard moving boxes you can use to pack most things, however there are some speciality boxes, like a TV boxes, that is worth the expense to make sure the item inside arrives safely. The right box plus bubble wrap, butchers paper or filing should be used to ensure the contents are not damaged during transit. Store UR Stuff’s recommended removalists Relocation Guys also recommend limiting the maximum weight of a moving box to 15 kilograms.

Tea Chest

The dimensions of the Tea Chest Box are 61cm (height), 51cm (depth) and 41cm (width). This box is particularly useful for packing bulky but light items such as clothes, shoes, bed linen and cuddly toys you’ve yet to grow out of. It is important not to fill the box with heavy items as they will be too heavy to lift.

Book Carton

With double thickness walls and dimensions of 40.6cm (length), 29.8cm (width) and 43cm (height), the Book Carton storage box is ideal for storing breakables and fragile items.

Picture Carton

Picture Cartons are ideal for storing frames, mirrors and pictures. With dimensions of 104cm (length), 7.5cm (width) and 77.5cm (height), making it the perfect storage box for your flatter possessions. Additionally, you may not think you need to use moving boxes. Although, it’s essential to do so as it will keep your possessions protected from any possible damage whilst in transit.

Port-a-robes

Port-a-robes are an essential large moving box when it comes to the storage and transit of clothing. Especially valuable clothing items. Additionally, this moving box enables you to hang clothes up with dimensions of 59.4cm (length), 47.6cm (width) and 109.9cm (height). Also, Port-a-robes help to protect all garments from potential damage, making them a great choice of packing materials. Lastly, this method of clothing storage allows airflow through the box, helping to avoid any moisture being trapped inside.

Lay Flat Wine Boxes

The Lay Flat Wine packing boxes are an ideal choice for the storing and transit of wine. These moving boxes are able to keep your wine safe and secure due to moulded inserts holding the bottles in place. Also, this storage box complies with Australian Post Parcel dimensions. Therefore enabling you to use for postage, transit and storage. Overall, the Lay Flat Wine boxes are an essential packing supply for the transit of wine.

Labelling Moving Boxes

When using moving boxes you should always use labels. This is a great way to keep your possessions neat and easily accessible. Additionally, labelling boxes will make it easier to find things once placed among other moving boxes. Furthermore, another great tip is to create an inventory listing what is contained in each box, and then keep a copy of that inventory. This will enable you to locate possessions without the hassle of sorting through multiple moving boxes.

Quality of Moving Boxes

Although the cheaper option may seem better, this is not always the case with cardboard moving boxes. Cheap moving boxes can sometimes cause more hassle due to not being able to hold much weight. As well as not being secure or fully sealable. Therefore, if you’re wanting to ensure your possessions are going to be safe, opt for the higher quality boxes. Or otherwise purchase moving boxes through your storage provider. That way you’re able to receive help with choosing what’s best for your needs.

Furthermore, when it comes to moving house it is best to ensure you use the best storage supplies. Quality cardboard moving boxes will help to ensure your possessions are safe and secure whilst in transit. Along with this, labelling your moving boxes is also a great tip to make it easier for you to locate possessions once unpacking. Lastly, for more tips and information visit our moving boxes page, or keep an eye on our blog page.

Wine Storage

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Most of us purchase a bottle of wine to enjoy right away but for those special wines that we want to cellar there are important rules for red and white wine storage to ensure your wines age well and increase in flavour and value.

Wine Storage Environment

Some winemakers have earned a reputation for creating wine worth aging, certain regions and certain type of wine age better than others, but the majority of wines on the market today are manufactured for immediate consumption and are not designed to age.

These wines are still of high quality and can be stored for 8 – 12 months or so without significant loss of quality as long as temperature, humidity and light of the area is considered. Though some wineries have earned a reputation for creating wine worth aging, additionally, certain regions and certain types of wine age better than others.

Temperature for Wine Storage

The ideal temperature to store wine is between 12-14°C. This temperature needs to remain constant all year round for optimal wine storage conditions. It is not recommended to store wine in the kitchen. This is one room in the house where the temperature can vary through out the day. That is when the oven or stove is on the temperature in the kitchen will heat up. If possible, the temperature should not fluctuate more than 2-3°C.

Heat can damage wine with wine show judge, Adam Walls, saying hot temperatures can cook the wine resulting in the wine losing its freshness. Heat can also compromise the seal of the wine which can lead to oxidation. Oxidation allows more air/oxygen into the wine. This can lead to wine evaporating leaving a low fill level and an oxidized flavor. Do not store wine in non insulated sheds or garages due to excessive fluctuations in temperatures. Avoid areas near heat sources such as heaters or electrical items that generate heat. Also high areas, such as on top of a cabinet, where hot air rises.

Wine Storage Humidity

Ideal wine storage conditions would maintain a 50% humidity level. That is humidity below about 50% is getting too dry and levels above 50% too damp. This maybe difficult to achieve. As long as the storage area has relative humidity levels ranging between 60-80% the wine should not spoil.

Dry conditions dry out the cork, causing it to shrink which can lead to oxidation. The majority of wine produced in Australia today are screw cap sealed. This alleviates the risk of the cork drying out. Wine storage areas that are too damp do not necessarily ruin the wine, it can lead to mold and mildew growing. This can ruin the storage area and wine labels.

Moreover, bottles with corks must be stored on their side. Screw caps can be stored in whichever way (standing up or lying down) suits you best.

Wine Storage in the dark

Do not store wine in direct sunlight. According to The Fine Wine Reserve although wine bottles are designed to protect the wine inside, UV light can break down the molecules that create the special flavors of a wine. This occurs more commonly in delicate white wines like Champagne, Pinot Grigio, and Sauvignon Blanc.

Do not store wine on window sills or bench tops. If storing in wine racks ensure they are placed out of direct sunlight. Areas in the house such as under an internal staircase or the bottom shelf of a cupboard or pantry are better.

Wine Self Storage

Your average wine drinker need not be too concerned about climate controlled secure self storage areas for their wine collection if seeking short term storage options. Wine can be stored short term safely in a insulated storage facility. When moving home for example, wine can be stored in wine boxes and placed in your storage unit.

If storage is for an extended period of time, a climate controlled purpose built wine storage facility should be used. This is also the case for collectors and enthusiasts of wine storing and aging fine wines. These places ensure the temperature, humidity and light remain in the optimal range for your special collection.

What does Booze Brothers say about wine storage?

Booze Brothers Bottle Shops are filled with passionate wine enthusiasts and we asked them for some of their top tips on wine storage.

Booze Brothers Manager (at The Duck), Duane says “Wine should be checked and turned regularly. If possible, store red wine in a climate controlled environment like a cellar. Good reds can be stored for up to 10 years, if a wine reaches it’s optimum it will slowly decrease from it’s best potential so remember to drink at special occasions and enjoy the rewards of your cellaring.”

Want to learn more about wine and wine storage?

Hitsa Industry Training and Employment provide a short 2 day course, Provide advice on Australian wines. If you are working in the wine industry, hospitality or just enjoy wine as a personal hobby this course will further your knowledge on handling, storing and evaluating Australian wine products.

Moving House – Tips

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Moving house is rated one of the most stressful life events, but with some handy tips on forward planning and organisation it can become an easier and smoother process for you and the whole family. 

Make a checklist for moving house

It is imperative to create a checklist for leading up to your move and another one for the day of your move. Checklists will help you remain organised, save time and save you from forgetting anything important during the process like connect your electricity in your new house.

Some points for your pre-move in day checklist:

  • Book a removalist or moving truck if you decide to move yourself
  • Organise care for the kids or pets on move in day if it applies
  • Label each box clearly so you or the removalist knows which room it’s going to
  • Create an inventory for each box so you can see what you’ve packed without opening the box
  • Label anything fragile with fluorescent tape so it doesn’t get tossed around or placed on the bottom of a heavy stack
  • Organise the transfer or set up of your electricity, gas and internet to the new house.
  • Schedule your mail re-direct with Australia Post

Some points for your move in day checklist:

  • Wave the kids off as they spend the day with Gran and Grandad
  • Confirm with the removalist that they have the correct address for pick up and drop off
  • Pack plenty of water and food for the day to keep your energy levels
  • Have a bag of spare clothes, toiletries, first aid kit and bed sheets (it could be a massive day)
  • Gather all the old keys
  • Do one last scan of the house to make sure nothing has been missed
  • Lock all windows, doors and turn off your hot water and gas

Moving house is not a small task, these checklists could go on further.

Moving house with kids

Kids come in all shapes, sizes and of course ages. So, depending on how old your children are will indicate how much they will understand what’s going on around them when their clothes and toys start getting packed away into boxes. Try to involve the kids in the moving process, get them to help you pack up their bedroom and reward them for their efforts.

Moving house with pets

Don’t forget, moving house can also be a stressful event for your pet whether they’re a dog, cat or goldfish. How you choose to involve them in the move could be based on their personality or their age. Your first step should be to update their registration, information tag or microchip details in case they decide to escape.

Once you’ve set up their bedding area in the new house, make sure they have plenty of familiar items around them like blankets, toys and clothing so the change can feel less of a shock. Keep any routines as normal as possible like meal times or exercise.

For cats, you’d want to keep them inside until they are used to the new home and surroundings to avoid them running away.

Moving house DIY – load up the truck

Hiring a truck and moving everything yourself can cut down the costs. It may make the experience more challenging but if you’re up to the task, give it a shot. How you load the truck is important to make the most of the space and save yourself doing any unnecessary trips. Use plenty of blankets, sheets, towels or quilted pads to protect any items that may shift while driving. Load the heaviest items first like wardrobe units, couches, fridge, washing machine and dryer.

Pack any light items on top to use the space like couch cushions or light boxes. Start loading any chairs or light furniture that has been taken apart and line up any mattresses against the side of the truck for extra padding. Load any boxes or belongings that you may require straight away last like carpets that need to go down before any furniture, kitchen boxes, bedroom boxes and personal items.

If you have never driven a truck before, get some tips from the company you hire from. Trucks are higher and wider than cars with a wider turning circle. Take it slower and avoid any sharp turns to eliminate any damage or shifting of your belongings.

If you have any super fragile items, consider taking them to the new house in your regular car.

Get the materials for moving house

Packing boxes, sticky tape, permanent markers, butchers paper, bubble wrap, picture or mirror cartons, chair covers, and mattress covers are few of many essentials to think of when you are packing your entire home. Explore our range in our Box Shop store or online at Store Ur Stuff.

Need Storage?

Have you got more stuff than you thought? Don’t be too hard on yourself, we all know a hoarder or someone who’s kids have moved in and out of home more times than they can count, and they’ve somehow become responsible for far more furniture, clothes and old toys than they started with.

Self storage at Store Ur Stuff is a convenient solution with competitive prices. With a range of different sized units, you’ll be sure to find one that fits.

For further reading:

https://www.realestate.com.au/advice/moving/