If you’re putting your belongings into storage in the Bloemfontein area, the way you pack them can make all the difference. Let’s face it Bloem gets cold, it gets hot, and it gets dusty! So don’t mess around by thinking you’re OK to simply throw things into boxes!
Whether it’s for a few months or a couple of years, proper packing protects your items from damage, dust, and moisture — and makes life a lot easier when it’s time to unpack.
Here’s Handi Store’s step-by-step guide to keeping your things safe and organised— even for the unexpected long haul.
Choose the Right Boxes
Use strong, same-sized boxes wherever possible. This makes stacking easier and reduces the risk of boxes collapsing under weight. Avoid thin or worn supermarket boxes — Bloemfontein’s temperature changes can weaken them over time.
Handi’s Practical Tip: For heavy items like books, use smaller boxes so they’re easier to lift.
Wrap Fragile Items Properly
Glass, ceramics, and electronics need extra care. Use bubble wrap, packing paper(or newspaper although the black ink can rub off) , or soft cloths to cushion them. Plates are best stored upright like vinyl records, rather than stacked flat, to reduce pressure and prevent cracking.
Protect Against Dust and Moisture
Long-term storage means your belongings will sit for months without being touched. To prevent mould, rust, and musty smells:
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Add silica gel packs to boxes to absorb moisture.
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Use breathable plastic covers for furniture.
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Keep items slightly raised off the floor using pallets or boards.
Label Everything Clearly
Make it easy to find what you need later by labelling each box on at least two sides with both its contents and the room it came from. This simple step saves you from opening every box when you’re searching for something.
If writing feels too time-consuming, try a colour-coded system instead. Pick up a pack of coloured round stickers from any stationery shop—use green for the lounge, yellow for the kitchen, blue for the bedroom, and so on. This method is especially useful if you have friends or movers helping you.
When unloading, simply place the matching colour sticker on the door or wall of the relevant room. That way, boxes can go straight to the right place without you having to reshuffle them later.
Pack Smart Inside the Unit
When loading your storage unit:
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Place heavier boxes at the bottom, lighter ones on top.
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Leave a walkway so you can reach items at the back.
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Keep frequently used items near the front.
Final Tip
A little extra effort when packing can save you a lot of stress later. And if you’re looking for secure, accessible storage in Bloemfontein, Handistore.co.za offers clean, well-maintained units with easy access so your belongings are safe until you need them.
