Packing a storage unit well makes a genuine difference. Do it properly and everything stays in good condition, you can find items quickly, and you use your space efficiently. Do it poorly and you end up with damaged furniture, crushed boxes and a unit you cannot get into without a full unpack.

Whether you are heading into our Brunswick facility or Pascoe Vale storage, this step-by-step guide will have you sorted before you arrive.

What to Gather Before You Start

Good packing starts before you even arrive at the unit. Both our Brunswick and Pascoe Vale locations stock packing supplies in-store, so you can grab what you need on the day. You will want:

  • Sturdy cardboard boxes in consistent sizes
  • Heavy-duty packing tape
  • Bubble wrap and packing paper
  • Permanent markers for labelling
  • Mattress covers or bags
  • Furniture blankets or moving pads
  • Plastic wrap for upholstered furniture

Step-by-Step: Loading Your Unit

Step 1 – Declutter Before You Pack

There is no point paying to store things you do not want. Before packing, sort everything into three groups: keep, donate or sell, and throw away. A smaller, well-organised unit is always easier to manage than a large, cluttered one.

Step 2 – Disassemble Large Furniture

Bed frames, desks and wardrobe frames take up far less space when broken down flat. Remove legs from tables and sofas where possible, and keep all screws and fixings in labelled zip-lock bags taped directly to the furniture they belong to.

Step 3 – Wrap and Protect Everything

Protecting your belongings is not just about fragile items. Furniture scratches, upholstery attracts dust, and timber can warp if left uncovered. A few simple habits here go a long way:

  • Wrap timber furniture in moving blankets secured with plastic wrap
  • Slip mattresses into mattress bags to protect against dust
  • Cover upholstered sofas and chairs with old sheets or plastic wrap
  • Wrap fragile items individually in bubble wrap and mark boxes as FRAGILE
  • Store mirrors and artwork upright, never flat

Step 4 – Pack Boxes the Right Way

How you fill a box matters as much as what goes in it. Heavy items like books and tools belong in small boxes so they stay manageable. Lighter items like linen and cushions go in larger boxes. Fill every box fully so it does not collapse when stacked, and tape all seams securely. Label each box on the top and at least one side.

Step 5 – Load Strategically

Load large, heavy items first against the back wall: appliances, wardrobes and bed frames. Stack boxes on top and in front, heaviest at the bottom and lightest on top. Leave a clear walkway down the middle of the unit so you can access the back without unpacking everything. Use the full ceiling height where weight allows.

What NOT to Store

Before loading up, make sure nothing prohibited is going in. At All In Self Storage the following are not permitted: fresh or perishable food, chemicals, flammable substances, explosives, firearms and illegal items. For the full list, see our guide on what you can and cannot store in a self storage unit in Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I use boxes or plastic tubs?

Both work. Plastic tubs are more durable and moisture resistant, making them better for longer-term storage. Cardboard boxes are cheaper for short-term use.

Can I store a fridge or washing machine?

Yes. Defrost and dry your fridge completely before storing, and leave the door slightly ajar. Drain your washing machine fully and store both appliances upright.

Get Started Today

Book your unit online at Brunswick or Pascoe Vale, or pop in and our team will help you choose the right size and get set up.