Ok. You have purchased one of our Mobile Attic Moving Containers and we have delivered it, now what?

Here are some helpful tips to make sure your items are packed properly so there won’t be any damage to them.

HOW TO PACK

Start at the back of the moving container and create floor to ceiling walls or tiers of packed boxes. Place heavy boxes at the bottom and lighter boxes at the top of each wall.
Our moving containers have hooks or anchors throughout the container. Secure each tier with rope or moving straps to these handy anchors. You can rent moving straps from us if you don’t have them.
Complete each wall and then gradually move to the front of the moving container. You won’t want to leave any gaps behind since once you move forward you won’t be able to go back, unless you unpack your hard work up to this point.
Make sure each box is fully packed. Don’t leave empty space inside of it or your boxes will likely cave in or break. Tips for packing moving boxes.

Distribute Weight Evenly

PLEASE NOTE: When it comes to loading heavier items like furniture and appliances, balance them evenly on either side of the moving container. Heavy items all on one side can lead to dramatic shifts in weight and possible damage during transport.

Stuff the Empty Spaces

As you get closer to the front of the moving container you may notice spaces between furniture and other odd-sized items. Fill these gaps with blankets and garbage bags filled with clothes or stuffed animals. The goal is to minimize space and to minimize movement.
The more tightly packed your Mobile Attic Container, the more secure the move.

Preparing Furniture and Appliances

Break down furniture as much as possible
Wrap furniture and appliances in moving blankets, bubble wrap and pads to protect surfaces
If possible, pack couches on their ends to leave more storage space
Load heavy items along the sides of the moving container close to anchors
Secure your mattresses in mattress covers
Secure all your heavy items with moving straps for zero movement during the trip

Preparing Your Mobile Attic Container for Long-Term Storage

If you will not be unloading your storage container right away upon arrival at its destination, take these extra steps to protect your belongings for long-term storage.
PLEASE NOTE: Add moisture absorbers to the storage container to prevent mold and mildew growth over time. You can purchase these from us and we will bring with us on delivery or pickup date.
If you think you will need to access the container during its stay in storage, rethink your packing plan. Place items you may need access closer to the front of the moving container.

What Can Go Wrong When Loading a Moving Container

You just start load with no system. You run out of packing space and have to unload and start over. Think and plan ahead.
PLEASE NOTE: You pack all your appliances and furniture at the back of the container and all your boxes at the front. The result may be toppled boxes and damage when you unload. Evenly distribute items and weight through the packing container for a tight load.
You leave some empty space for last minute items that never gets filled. When you unpack you find items have shifted and there is damage. Load and pack tightly. No space and no movement leads to a secure move.
You’ve packed the container pretty tightly, so you don’t think you need ropes or anchors. During transport vibrations can cause “wiggle room” to form and cause heavier items to shift. Secure every moving box tier and all heavy items with rope or moving/ratchet. Take advantage of the built-in pod anchors!

More Loading and Packing Tips

Never pack perishables in a container
Always label your boxes so you can see at a glance what each tier contains
Use specialized picture boxes for artwork, mirrors and flat screen TVs
PLEASE NOTE: At the entry of the moving container place a large sheet of cardboard or flattened boxes to create a barrier that will prevent items from falling against the door during the move. This will prevent door jams when you go to unpack. If we have to come by to get door dislodged, then there will be an additional fee.
Always keep an itemized list of what you packed
Keep your highly valuables and important documents on your person instead of loading them into a container

We hope you found this helpful. If you’re interested in learning more about mobile containers/units, then click HERE.

Other Resources To Help With Your Move:

What Are Portable Storage Containers

Photo Credit: Mobile Attic St. Louis

Mobile Container Packing Tips