Sort out what will stay with you before the packing starts. Keep passports, medication, essential documents, valuables and the equipment you use daily accessible. Then group the remaining items by when you expect to need them. A box that comes back together should be packed together.
Use a box system you can maintain
- Number every box on the top and two sides. Keep a list with contents, destination room and whether it can carry another box.
- Photograph the open box before sealing. Add serial numbers and value evidence separately for valuable items.
- Fill small gaps so contents do not move, but do not overfill a carton until its lid bulges. Label fragile or non-stackable boxes clearly.
- Keep the list on your phone or cloud storage, not inside a sealed box.
Pack by material
| Item | Method |
|---|---|
| Books | Use smaller sturdy boxes; support books so they do not slump or crush. Keep them dry and away from heat and moisture. |
| Clothes and bedding | Wash where appropriate and dry completely before packing. Follow care labels before prolonged compression. |
| Furniture | Photograph before dismantling; label parts and keep screws with the matching assembly instructions. Protect corners and surfaces. |
| Appliances | Follow the manufacturer’s preparation and transport instructions. Drain and dry items that contain water; check battery restrictions with the operator. |
| Glass and fragile objects | Wrap individually, support inside a rigid box and keep load off them. Ask movers to specify any specialist packing. |
For paper collections, the National Archives’ book-care advice explains why heat and moisture are unsuitable. Do not pack damp items on the assumption that an air-conditioned warehouse will dry them safely. For already damaged or valuable collections, seek appropriate conservation advice before sealing them away.
Check the service’s limits before pickup
Box services can impose a weight limit as well as dimensions. U SPACE’s FAQ specifies 23kg for a storage box. That is its service limit, not a target weight for every box you lift. Weigh packed boxes and split heavy contents before the collection team arrives.
Send the operator a list of unusual contents such as batteries, sprays or liquids for approval. On move-in, place heavy boxes low and frequently needed boxes where they can be reached without climbing over things. Keep the operator’s required clearance and exits unobstructed.