Whether you’re moving, downsizing, or decluttering, using storage services in Dublin, CA can make the process easier and more organized. However, preparing properly before your belongings go into storage is key to keeping them safe and accessible.
At All Star Movers & Storage, we’ve helped Dublin residents store everything from home furniture to office equipment safely for over 20 years. Follow these essential tips to make sure your storage experience is stress-free and efficient.
1. Plan Ahead and Make an Inventory
Before you pack, take time to plan what you’ll store. Create a detailed inventory list of your belongings and take photos of high-value items. This list will help you stay organized, track your possessions, and ensure nothing is misplaced.
Additionally, label boxes with both contents and room names. Clear labeling saves time later when you need to locate specific items.
2. Choose the Right Type of Storage
Not all items belong in the same type of unit. Deciding between standard storage and climate-controlled storage early helps you protect your belongings and manage costs.
Standard storage is best for sturdy items such as tools, outdoor equipment, or non-sensitive materials.
Climate-controlled storage, on the other hand, protects electronics, furniture, photos, and delicate fabrics from temperature and humidity damage.
At All Star Movers & Storage, we offer both options so you can store your items safely year-round.
3. Clean and Dry All Items Before Storage
Before packing, clean and dry all items thoroughly. Dust, dirt, and moisture can cause stains, mold, or unpleasant odors over time.
Wipe down furniture, vacuum upholstered pieces, and make sure everything is completely dry. For appliances, remove any water and leave doors slightly open to prevent mildew.
4. Use Quality Packing Materials
Using strong packing materials protects your belongings while they’re in storage. Choose sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, stretch film, and heavy-duty tape for reliable protection.
Wrap fragile items individually and use padding inside boxes to prevent shifting. Additionally, seal each box securely and label it clearly for easy identification.
If you’d rather not handle packing yourself, our team at All Star Movers & Storage offers professional packing services using high-quality materials.
5. Palletize and Elevate Your Belongings
Keeping your items off the ground prevents exposure to moisture and improves air circulation. At All Star Movers & Storage, we palletize your belongings for added protection.
This process involves stacking and wrapping boxes on wooden or plastic pallets, which helps prevent damage from dust, leaks, or movement during handling.
6. Disassemble Large Furniture
Disassembling furniture before storage saves space and reduces the risk of scratches or breaks. Remove legs from tables, take apart bed frames, and wrap each piece carefully.
Keep screws and small parts in labeled bags taped to the corresponding furniture so nothing gets lost. This small step makes reassembly easy later.
7. Avoid Overpacking Boxes
Overstuffed boxes can tear or collapse under weight, while under-filled boxes may cave in when stacked. Fill each box evenly and avoid exceeding its strength limit.
When stacking, place heavier boxes at the bottom and lighter ones on top. This method prevents crushing and keeps your storage unit stable and organized.
8. Protect Fragile and Valuable Items
Fragile items need special care. Wrap glass, ceramics, and artwork in bubble wrap or padded paper. Store mirrors and framed pictures vertically instead of flat to reduce pressure.
For valuable or irreplaceable items, consider using climate-controlled storage and labeling them as “fragile” for easy identification.
9. Plan the Layout of Your Storage Unit
Before moving day, plan how you’ll arrange your unit. Place large furniture and heavy boxes in the back, while keeping frequently used items near the front.
Leave a narrow walkway in the middle so you can access everything easily. Having an organized layout saves time and prevents accidental damage when retrieving items.
10. Work with a Professional Storage Team
Finally, working with experienced professionals makes storage preparation simple and worry-free. At All Star Movers & Storage, our trained team can:
Pack and wrap your items properly
Palletize and transport them safely
Store them in our secure, climate-controlled facility
We also offer pickup and delivery services for maximum convenience, so you don’t have to lift a thing.
Why Dublin Residents Choose All Star Movers & Storage
Locally owned and operated in the Bay Area
Over 20 years of moving and storage experience
Fully licensed, insured, and BBB accredited
Clean, secure, and climate-controlled storage facilities
Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
Short- and long-term storage options
Serving Dublin, Pleasanton, Livermore, San Ramon, Danville, Walnut Creek, Hayward, Tracy, Modesto, San Jose, San Francisco, and Sacramento
We take pride in offering personalized, secure storage solutions designed to make your move easier and safer.
Make Your Storage Experience in Dublin Easy and Efficient
Preparing for storage takes planning, but it pays off in peace of mind. With All Star Movers & Storage, you’ll get expert help, organized handling, and a clean, secure facility for all your belongings.
Call today at (925) 905-9889 to schedule your free estimate!