Essential Packing Checklist for Long Term Storage

Planning to store your belongings for several months—or even years? Packing for long-term storage is a little different. At Think Storage, we’ve put together a simple checklist to keep your items safe, your mind at ease, and your storage experience completely stress-free.

Packing Supplies to Start with:

  • Sturdy cardboard boxes (double-walled)
  • Clear plastic tubs (for moisture-prone items)
  • Bubble wrap and packing paper
  • Packing tape and scissors
  • Furniture covers or dust sheets
  • Permanent markers and labels
  • Vacuum-seal bags (for clothes and bedding)

Before You Pack:

Clean everything: Appliances, furniture, and clothes should be clean and dry to prevent mould and odour.

Take inventory: List items in each box for easy tracking. Photos can help too.

Check what’s allowed: For safety, Think Storage does not allow flammable items such as lithium batteries or fireworks, gas canisters etc.

What to Pack - and How:

  • Furniture

Disassemble large pieces. Wrap each component carefully. Store mattresses upright and covered.

  • Appliances

Defrost fridges and freezers fully. Tape doors shut, but leave a slight opening to prevent mildew.

  • Clothes and Bedding 

Use vacuum-seal bags for compactness. Label bags by season for convenience.

  • Documents & Photos

Place in waterproof containers and keep elevated. Avoid plastic wallets that trap moisture.

  • Delicate Items

Wrap in bubble wrap and mark boxes as “fragile.” Store these at the top of stacks.

  • Electronics

Remove batteries (especially lithium which are not allowed in the storage unit). Use original packaging if possible, or bubble wrap and sturdy boxes.

Final tips:

  • Leave space for airflow around the edges of the unit.
  • Stack heavier items at the bottom.
  • Don’t forget to label everything.

When you’re storing for the long haul, care in packing really pays off. At Think Storage, we’re always happy to offer advice or help you choose the right unit.

Secure, serene, and simply stored—that’s the Think Storage way.