5 Things to Do Before Packing Your Shed or Garage

Sheds and garages can often be complicated parts of your home to pack up before a big move. While every room in the house may have something that needs special attention, the shed is usually filled with such items. But before you start tackling the packing of your shed or garage, you'll meet the unique challenges these have. Here are five key things to do before you start filling boxes.

1. Inventory and Purge Items

Before you begin packing up a large shed or garage - particularly if it's become a catch-all over the years - take some time to see what you're working with. Consider writing down a general list of what's inside so you can plan how to approach bigger tasks, like packing up the barbecue or lawn tractor.

Once you see what the overall picture is inside the shed, look for things you don't actually need to take. This includes broken tools or equipment, things that may have deteriorated in outdoor storage, and tools you simply don't use anymore.

2. Group Things Together

After completing the first round of purging, try to group together items that should be packed together. For instance, organize tools into three broad categories: small, medium, and large. Bundle together rakes, shovels, brooms, and pruners so you can pack them as a single unit. Set aside particularly heavy objects and particularly light, delicate items (like fabrics) that may be damaged if packed with other goods.

3. Get Rid of Hazardous Materials

The shed or garage is one of the most likely places you will find dangerous materials that shouldn't (or can't) be moved as well as other forbidden items. This commonly includes acids, pesticides, weed killer, antifreeze, solvents, paint, oil, poison, fuel, propane and tanks, aerosols, lighter fluid, and charcoal. Give these away to friends and neighbors or dispose of them properly.

4. Get a Variety of Materials

It's very important that you have at hand a wider variety of packing materials and containers than for most of the rest of the house. This is because many things in the shed can be sharp, dangerous, heavy, or even potentially toxic. Even one errant blade or saw could damage other things in the moving truck and even injure people.

Get an array of boxes in different sizes. Heavy tools should be placed in smaller boxes so they don't become too heavy to pick up or break the boxes. Larger boxes for lighter materials may also need to include longer lengths for oddly-shaped tools. Use sturdy boxes and avoid recycling old containers since these could break and cause damage.

In addition to good boxes, get plenty of sturdy packing materials to cushion tools and equipment. Pads and blankets can be wrapped around groups of long tools. And be sure you use proper packing tape that will secure things well.

5. Consult on Larger Items

Is there anything in the shed that you're not sure what to do with? Large outdoor and lawn equipment, specialty tools, and large workbenches may not only be hard to pack but also dangerous if done improperly. Consult with professional movers to determine if it can be safely done yourself or if special skills or moving tools are necessary.

Where to Start

If you face a big job preparing the shed or garage for its big move, ask for help from your moving service. Many movers provide complete packing services. They also know what can and cannot be moved and how to pack tools and equipment in the safest way.

Superior Economy Moving is ready to help. We can make short work of packing even the most unusual items and spaces on your property. Call today to make an appointment and see how we can assist you.