Long-term storage is ideal when you are moving, renovating, downsizing, dealing with probate or simply need more space at home or work.

The way you pack makes a real difference. Good preparation protects your belongings, helps you use the unit efficiently and makes it far easier to find things months later.

Start with a clear inventory

Before you pack, make a list of everything going into storage. Take photographs of valuable items and number your boxes if it helps.

Write the contents on at least two sides of every box. A label such as “Kitchen” is useful, but “Kitchen – mugs, pans and baking tins” is much better when you are looking for one item six months later.

Keep your inventory somewhere separate, either on your phone or with your important paperwork.

Only store items that are clean and completely dry

Never pack damp, dirty or muddy belongings into long-term storage.

Wash and dry garden furniture, tools and outdoor equipment before storing them. Wipe down furniture, vacuum soft furnishings and make sure appliances are clean and dry inside.

Moisture trapped inside boxes, bags or furniture can create odours and damage over time. Take the extra time to let everything dry properly before it goes into the unit.

Use strong, matching boxes

Strong cardboard boxes are usually the best option for long-term storage. Matching box sizes make them easier and safer to stack.

Avoid overfilling boxes. Heavy items such as books, tools, tins and crockery should go in smaller boxes that can be lifted safely. Lighter items can go in larger boxes.

Reinforce the bottom of each box with good-quality tape and fill gaps with packing paper so contents cannot move around.

Protect furniture properly

Cover furniture to keep it clean and prevent scratches. Use suitable furniture covers, blankets or breathable protective materials.

Dismantle beds, tables and other furniture where practical. Keep screws, bolts and fittings in labelled bags, then tape the bag securely to the item it belongs to.

Do not place heavy boxes directly on sofas, mattresses or delicate furniture. Store mattresses upright where possible and avoid wrapping furniture while it is damp.

Pack fragile items with care

Wrap plates, glasses, ornaments and other breakables individually. Pack plates on their edge, use smaller sturdy boxes and fill all empty spaces with packing paper.

Label fragile boxes clearly, but do not rely on the label alone. The best protection comes from good wrapping and a box that is full enough to stop items moving.

For mirrors, artwork, televisions or particularly valuable belongings, ask your removal company for advice before storing them.

Store appliances and equipment safely

Clean and dry appliances thoroughly before storage. Defrost fridges and freezers, drain water where appropriate and leave doors slightly ajar until they are completely dry.

Tools and equipment must be clean, dry and fuel-free. Do not put petrol, diesel, gas bottles, aerosols, paint, solvents, chemicals or other hazardous materials into storage.

Load the unit with access in mind

Put large, heavy furniture at the back and heavier boxes at the bottom. Keep items you may need regularly close to the door.

Leave a narrow walkway if you expect to access your belongings during the storage period. It is worth giving up a little space rather than having to unpack half the unit to reach one box.

Keep valuables and important documents with you

Important documents, passports, cash, bank cards, jewellery and irreplaceable valuables are better kept with you rather than placed into long-term storage.

Make sure your stored goods are insured to their full value. Hampson & Mealey does not insure the contents of your unit, so customers must arrange their own cover.

Long-term storage in Kirkham

Hampson & Mealey provides dry, weatherproof, ground-level drive-up container storage in Kirkham at Holmefield Industrial Estate, Blackpool Road, Kirkham, PR4 2RE.

We are open daily from 7am–7pm, with independent coded-gate access for customers’ convenience. There is no deposit, minimum rental period or notice period, and you keep your own lock and key.

Need storage? Check storage availability, call 01772 283818 or email enquiries@hampsonmealey.co.uk.