Pro Tips for Storing Your Belongings

Grant Cool • October 9, 2025

Moving often comes with a transitional period. Whether you're downsizing, waiting for a new home to be ready, or simply decluttering, a storage unit can be an invaluable resource. However, getting your belongings safely into storage requires more than just tossing them into a truck. Proper preparation is key to ensuring your items remain in the same condition as when you packed them. At Prescott Moving Company, we are more than just movers; we are experts in the entire relocation process, including preparing your items for short-term or long-term storage. A successful storage experience begins with a smart plan for packing, organizing, and protecting your belongings. This guide, filled with our professional advice, will show you how to prepare your items for storage like a pro.


Why Proper Storage Preparation Matters

You might think that packing for storage is the same as packing for a direct move, but there are important differences. Items in storage are often left untouched for months or even years. They are exposed to temperature fluctuations, dust, and the simple wear and tear of being stacked in a confined space. Without proper preparation, you could open your unit to find broken heirlooms, mildewed furniture, or a disorganized mess that’s impossible to navigate. Taking the time to pack and organize correctly from the start saves you from future stress, damage, and financial loss. It ensures that when you’re ready to retrieve your belongings, they are safe, clean, and easy to find.


Packing Strategies for Safe Storage

The foundation of a good storage experience is excellent packing. At Prescott Moving Company, our teams are trained to pack items specifically for the rigors of storage. Here are some of the key strategies we use and recommend to our clients.


1. Gather the Right Supplies

Don't skimp on packing materials. Using old grocery boxes or worn-out containers can lead to disaster. Invest in quality supplies to give your belongings the protection they need.

  • Uniform Boxes: Use new, sturdy boxes of similar sizes. This makes stacking easier, more stable, and maximizes vertical space in your unit.
  • Packing Tape: Use strong packing tape, not masking or duct tape, to seal boxes securely on the top and bottom.
  • Protective Materials: Stock up on bubble wrap, packing paper (not newspaper, as the ink can transfer), and furniture pads or moving blankets.
  • Plastic Bins: For items that are especially sensitive to moisture, consider using clear plastic bins with secure lids. They are great for clothing, important documents, and electronics.


2. Protect Fragile Items with Care

Fragile items require special attention. Rushing this step is one of the biggest mistakes we see.

  • Wrap Individually: Every fragile item, from glassware to picture frames, should be wrapped individually in packing paper or bubble wrap.
  • Cushion Everything: Line the bottom of your boxes with a layer of crumpled packing paper or other cushioning material. After placing wrapped items inside, fill all empty spaces to prevent shifting. Nothing should rattle when you gently shake the box.
  • Plates and Dishes: Pack plates vertically, like records in a crate. They are much stronger this way and less likely to break under pressure.


3. Prepare Furniture and Appliances

Large items need preparation to survive storage without damage.

  • Clean Everything: Before you move anything into storage, make sure it is clean and dry. Food crumbs can attract pests, and trapped moisture can lead to mold and mildew. Wipe down furniture, defrost refrigerators, and clean out ovens.
  • Disassemble When Possible: Take apart bed frames, tables, and other large furniture. This not only saves a significant amount of space but also makes them easier and safer to move. Place all screws, bolts, and small hardware in a labeled plastic bag and tape it securely to the largest piece of the furniture.
  • Cover and Protect: Use furniture pads, moving blankets, or even old sheets to cover wood furniture, sofas, and mattresses. This protects them from dust, moisture, and scratches. Avoid using plastic wrap directly on wood or leather, as it can trap moisture and cause damage.


The Art of Labeling and Organization

A well-organized storage unit is a lifesaver. When you need to find a specific item, you don't want to spend hours unpacking every box. This is where a clear labeling system comes in.


Create a Detailed Inventory

Before you start loading, create a master inventory list. You can do this with a simple notebook or a spreadsheet. For each box, assign a number and list the general contents. For example:

  • Box #1: Kitchen - Everyday plates, bowls, silverware
  • Box #2: Living Room - Books, photo albums
  • Box #3: Kids' Room - Toys, winter clothing


This inventory list is your map. Keep a copy with you and consider taping another copy to the wall just inside your storage unit door for easy reference.


Label Every Box Clearly

Every single box should be labeled. Use a thick permanent marker and write on the top and at least two sides of the box. Your labels should include:

  • The box number (corresponding to your inventory list).
  • The room it belongs to (e.g., "Kitchen," "Master Bedroom").
  • A brief description of the contents ("Pots and Pans," "Office Files").
  • A clear "FRAGILE" marking for any boxes containing breakable items.


Maximizing Your Storage Space

Loading the storage unit is like a game of Tetris. A strategic approach will help you fit more items safely and keep everything accessible.

  • Build a Solid Base: Place your heaviest and sturdiest items at the back and along the walls of the unit. This includes appliances, large furniture, and heavy boxes.
  • Create a Walkway: If possible, leave a narrow aisle down the center of your unit. This gives you a path to access items in the back without having to move everything in the front.
  • Stack Strategically: Stack boxes like bricks, with heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter ones on top. Make sure your stacks are stable and don't lean.
  • Keep Important Items Accessible: Place boxes and items you are most likely to need near the front of the unit. This includes seasonal items, important documents, or tools.


Let Prescott Moving Company Handle the Prep

Feeling overwhelmed? You don’t have to do it all alone. The professional team at Prescott Moving Company offers comprehensive moving and storage preparation services. We bring the expertise, the right materials, and the trained manpower to get the job done efficiently and safely.

Our services include:

  • Professional Packing: We can pack your entire home or just specific rooms, using proven techniques to protect every item.
  • Expert Labeling and Inventory: We create a detailed, easy-to-understand inventory system so you always know where your belongings are.
  • Safe Transportation: Our experienced movers will load, transport, and unload your items into your storage unit with the utmost care, maximizing space and ensuring everything is secure.

An investment in professional preparation is an investment in the safety of your belongings and your own peace of mind.


Ready to prepare for storage without the stress? Contact Prescott Moving Company today for a free estimate and let our experts handle the heavy lifting and careful packing for you.


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A box for the right things
By Grant Cool October 4, 2025
Moving is often seen as a game of Tetris on a grand scale: fitting all your life's belongings into a truck. But long before you get to the truck, there’s an even more crucial step—packing everything into boxes. It might seem straightforward, but choosing the right box for the right item is one of the most important decisions you'll make during your move. Using the wrong box can lead to broken heirlooms, strained backs, and a chaotic, inefficient move. At Prescott Moving Company, we believe a successful move starts with smart packing. Our experience has taught us that the box itself is your first line of defense in protecting your possessions. We don’t just move your things; we guide you through the process of packing them safely and efficiently. This guide will walk you through why box selection is so critical and how our expertise can help you make the right choices for everything you own. Why Your Box Choice Matters Have you ever tried to carry a large box filled with books? Or watched in horror as the bottom of a flimsy grocery store box gives way? These common moving mishaps are almost always preventable. Using the right box is about more than just containment; it's about protection, efficiency, and safety. Protection for Your Belongings: The right box provides the proper structure and cushioning for its contents. A dish pack box is designed to protect fragile china, while a small, sturdy box is meant to handle the weight of heavy books without breaking. Safety for You and the Movers: Overloading a large box with heavy items creates a significant injury risk. A properly sized box is manageable and reduces the chance of back strain or dropped items. Efficiency in Packing and Stacking: Uniform, high-quality moving boxes are designed to be stacked securely in a moving truck. Using a jumble of random, ill-fitting boxes makes loading unstable and wastes valuable space. A Box for Every Belonging: The Prescott Moving Company System At Prescott Moving Company, we offer a full range of high-quality packing materials and, more importantly, the expertise to help you use them correctly. Our team can assess your needs and recommend the perfect box for every item in your home, from the heaviest paperweights to the most delicate glassware. Small Boxes (1.5 Cubic Feet) Often called a "book box," this is the heavyweight champion of the moving world. Its small size is intentional. Best For: Books, records, canned goods, tools, and other small, heavy items. Why It Works: The compact size prevents you from overloading it. A small box filled with books is heavy but manageable. Putting the same number of books in a large box would make it nearly impossible to lift safely and would likely cause the box to fail. Our Tip: Resist the temptation to use larger boxes for heavy items. Your back (and your movers) will thank you. Medium Boxes (3.0 Cubic Feet) This is the versatile workhorse of any move. It’s large enough to be useful for a wide variety of items but not so large that it becomes easy to overload. Best For: Kitchen items like small appliances, pots, and pans; toys; office supplies; and general home décor. Why It Works: It offers a great balance of size and strength. You can pack bulkier items without the box becoming excessively heavy. Our Tip: When packing a medium box, place heavier items at the bottom and lighter items on top to create a stable center of gravity. Large Boxes (4.5 Cubic Feet) and Extra-Large Boxes (6.0 Cubic Feet) These boxes are designed for volume, not weight. They are perfect for items that take up a lot of space but don't weigh much. Best For: Linens, towels, blankets, pillows, lampshades, large stuffed animals, and bulky winter coats. Why It Works: They allow you to pack lightweight, awkward items efficiently. Filling a large box with heavy objects is a classic moving mistake that leads to broken boxes and potential injuries. Our Tip: Always check the weight of a large box as you pack. If it’s becoming difficult to push around, it’s too heavy. Specialty Boxes: The Key to Protecting Your Valuables Standard boxes can’t handle everything. For your most fragile, valuable, or awkwardly shaped belongings, specialty boxes are a necessity. Prescott Moving Company provides a full inventory of these essential materials. Dish Pack Boxes These are the unsung heroes of kitchen packing. They are constructed with heavy-duty, double-walled cardboard for maximum protection. Best For: Dishes, glasses, stemware, china, and other fragile kitchen items. Why It Works: The reinforced walls provide superior crush protection. Many come with optional cardboard cell dividers, which create individual compartments for glasses or other items, preventing them from clanking against each other. Our Tip: Wrap each item individually in packing paper before placing it in the dish pack. Stand plates and platters on their edge, never flat. Wardrobe Boxes Moving your closet has never been easier. These tall boxes feature a built-in metal bar, acting as a portable closet. Best For: Hanging clothes from your closet. Why It Works: You can transfer clothes directly from your closet to the box without taking them off the hangers. This saves an incredible amount of time on both ends of the move and prevents your clothes from getting wrinkled. The bottom of the box is also a great place to pack shoes or pillows. Picture & Mirror Boxes These telescoping boxes are designed to protect your wall art. Best For: Framed pictures, mirrors, and flat-screen TVs. Why It Works: The boxes can be adjusted to fit the exact dimensions of your item, providing a snug and secure fit. For larger pieces, you can fit two boxes together. The flat, protective design prevents scratches and cracks. Our Tip: For extra protection, wrap the item in a blanket or bubble wrap before placing it in the box. The Prescott Moving Company Packing Service Feeling overwhelmed? You don't have to do it alone. In addition to providing the best materials, Prescott Moving Company offers professional packing and unpacking services. Our trained team knows exactly how to wrap, cushion, and box every item in your home for maximum security. We bring all the necessary boxes and supplies, so you don't have to worry about a thing. Our packing experts are efficient and careful, ensuring that everything from your everyday dishes to your priceless antiques is prepared for a safe journey. We label every box clearly with its contents and designated room, which makes unpacking at your new home simple and organized. Choose a Partner for a Smarter Move The success of your move begins long before the truck arrives. It starts with a smart packing strategy and the right materials for the job. By choosing the correct boxes, you protect your belongings, ensure the safety of everyone involved, and create a more efficient process from start to finish. Let the experts at Prescott Moving Company take the guesswork out of packing. We have the knowledge, the materials, and the professional services to ensure your belongings are packed correctly and arrive at your new home safe and sound. Ready to plan a secure and efficient move? Contact Prescott Moving Company today for a free consultation and to learn more about our professional packing services and high-quality moving supplies. Meta Information Meta Title: Choosing the Right Moving Boxes | Prescott Moving Company Meta Description: Learn how to choose the right moving boxes for your belongings. Prescott Moving Company offers expert tips and high-quality packing supplies for a safe move.
Moving your electronics safely with care
By Grant Cool September 27, 2025
Moving to a new home is an exciting process, but the thought of transporting your valuable and delicate electronics can be a major source of stress. Your flat-screen TV, high-performance computer, gaming console, and surround-sound system are not only expensive but also fragile and complex. One wrong move could lead to a cracked screen, a damaged hard drive, or a frustrating setup process at your new place. How do you ensure these sensitive items arrive in perfect condition? At Prescott Moving Company, we specialize in the art of moving electronics . We understand that these items require a different level of care than your furniture or boxes of books. Our professional team is trained to handle your tech with precision, using specialized materials and proven techniques to ensure everything arrives safely and works perfectly upon arrival. This guide will explain our expert process and provide valuable tips to help you prepare your electronics for a secure and stress-free move. Why Electronics Need Special Handling Modern electronics are intricate pieces of engineering. Unlike a sturdy wooden table, they contain sensitive components that are highly susceptible to damage from impact, static electricity, and extreme temperatures. A simple bump can dislodge internal parts, and a lack of proper padding can lead to devastating screen cracks. Here are the primary risks when moving electronics without professional care: Physical Damage: Screens can crack, internal connections can loosen, and plastic casings can break. Static Discharge: Static electricity can short-circuit motherboards and other sensitive electronic components, rendering them useless. Data Loss: The hard drives in computers are particularly vulnerable to jostling, which can lead to data corruption or complete failure. Internal Component Damage: Delicate parts like GPU fans, hard drive platters, and optical drives can be damaged by vibrations during transit. Recognizing these risks is why Prescott Moving Company has developed a specialized protocol for packing and transporting your most valuable tech. The Prescott Moving Company Process for Electronics We don't just put your TV in a box and hope for the best. Our method is systematic, secure, and designed for complete peace of mind. Step 1: Meticulous Inventory and Labeling Before we pack a single item, our team takes a detailed inventory of all your electronics. We note the make, model, and condition of each device. We then create a clear and comprehensive labeling system for all cables, peripherals, and accessories. This means the power cord, HDMI cable, and remote for your living room TV are all bundled and labeled together. Your computer monitor, keyboard, mouse, and associated cables are similarly organized. This simple but crucial step prevents the all-too-common frustration of searching for a "mystery cord" during setup at your new home. Step 2: Using High-Quality, Specialized Packing Materials The right materials are non-negotiable for protecting electronics. We go far beyond standard boxes and newspaper. Original Packaging: If you have it, the original box is always the best option. It was specifically designed to protect your device. If not, don't worry—we have the next best thing. Heavy-Duty Electronics Boxes: We use multi-layered, heavy-duty cardboard boxes specifically designed for items like flat-screen TVs and computer monitors. Anti-Static Bubble Wrap: To prevent damaging static discharge, we wrap all sensitive electronics in anti-static bubble wrap. This is different from standard bubble wrap and is essential for protecting internal components. Cushioning and Support: We use foam inserts, packing peanuts, and soft moving blankets to create a secure buffer around the device, ensuring it cannot shift or vibrate inside the box during transit. Step 3: Secure Packing Techniques How an item is packed is just as important as what it's packed with. Our trained movers follow a strict procedure for every electronic device. For a computer, we carefully disconnect all peripherals. We then wrap the tower in anti-static wrap and place it upright in a reinforced box, filling any gaps with cushioning material to prevent movement. For a large TV, we use a dedicated TV box with custom-fit foam supports that protect the screen and corners from impact. Every item is packed snugly to minimize vibration. Step 4: Careful Transportation and Placement Our team handles boxes labeled "FRAGILE: ELECTRONICS" with the highest priority. These items are loaded onto the truck last and secured in a designated area where they will not be crushed or shift during the move. We ensure they are kept upright and away from anything that could potentially fall on them. Upon arrival, we place the boxes in their designated rooms, making your unpacking and setup process as simple as possible. Pro Tips: What You Can Do Before We Arrive While our team handles the heavy lifting, there are a few things you can do to prepare your electronics for the move and ensure a seamless transition. 1. Back Up Your Data This is the most important pre-move task for any computer owner. While we take every precaution to protect your hardware, events beyond anyone's control can happen. Hard drives can fail for various reasons, and the best insurance for your precious photos, documents, and files is a recent backup. Use a cloud service (like Google Drive, Dropbox, or iCloud) or an external hard drive to create a complete backup of your system a day or two before the move. 2. Take Pictures of Your Setups Before you unplug anything, take a quick picture of the back of your TV, computer, and stereo system. This visual reference can be a lifesaver when you’re trying to remember which cable goes into which port. While our labeling helps, a photo provides an extra layer of certainty. 3. Remove Media from Drives Be sure to eject any DVDs, Blu-rays, or game discs from your players and consoles. Leaving a disc inside the drive during a move can damage both the disc and the internal reader mechanism if the device is jostled. 4. Let Electronics Acclimate Electronics do not like extreme temperature changes. If you’re moving on a very hot or cold day, allow your electronics to sit in your new home for a few hours to acclimate to room temperature before plugging them in and turning them on. This prevents condensation from forming inside the devices, which can cause short circuits. Trust Prescott Moving Company with Your Tech Your electronics are at the heart of your home's entertainment, work, and communication. Moving them shouldn't be a gamble. By choosing Prescott Moving Company, you are investing in a proven system of professional care that guarantees your valuable tech is protected from start to finish. Our attention to detail, use of proper materials, and expert handling ensure that everything will arrive just as it left. Don't let the fear of damaged electronics add stress to your move. Let our specialists handle the details so you can focus on the excitement of settling into your new home. Ready for a secure and worry-free move for all your valuables? Contact Prescott Moving Company today for a free quote and let us show you how we move electronics with the care they deserve. Meta Information Meta Title: Safely Move Electronics | Prescott Moving Company Meta Description: Moving TVs, PCs, or gaming systems? Learn how Prescott Moving Company safely packs & transports your electronics to ensure they arrive in perfect condition.
Resources to get rid of your unwanted items.
By Grant Cool September 17, 2025
Moving is a fresh start. It’s an opportunity to begin a new chapter, create a new space, and embrace change. However, that fresh start often begins with a daunting task: figuring out what to do with all the things you’ve accumulated over the years. As you go through closets, attics, and garages, you’ll inevitably find items you no longer need or want. Moving everything is expensive and inefficient, but getting rid of it can feel just as overwhelming. At Prescott Moving Company, we believe your move should be exciting, not stressful. A major part of that is managing the downsizing process. We’re more than just movers; we’re your partners in making your entire transition smooth and efficient. We don't just lift the heavy boxes—we help you lighten your load before a single box is packed. This guide will walk you through the resources and strategies we recommend to our clients for selling, donating, and responsibly disposing of unwanted items . Why Downsizing Before You Move is a Smart Decision Before we dive into the "how," let's talk about the "why." Taking the time to sort through your belongings before you move offers several significant benefits. First, it saves you money. Moving costs are often calculated based on the weight of your shipment and the time it takes to load and unload. The less you have to move, the lower your bill will be. Why pay to transport a dusty treadmill you haven't used in years or a set of dishes you forgot you owned? Second, it saves you time and energy. Packing, labeling, and organizing are time-consuming. Reducing the volume of your possessions simplifies the entire packing process. Even better, it makes unpacking and setting up your new home significantly faster and less cluttered. Finally, it provides a mental and emotional release. Decluttering your physical space can have a powerful impact on your mindset. Starting fresh in a new home with only the items you truly love and use is liberating. It allows you to be more intentional about your new living space. Your Guide to Selling Unwanted Items Turning your unwanted clutter into cash is a win-win situation. You make some extra money to offset moving expenses, and your items go to someone who will use and appreciate them. Prescott Moving Company can help you identify the best local and online avenues for selling your things. Online Marketplaces: Reach a Wide Audience Online platforms have made it easier than ever to sell secondhand goods. Each platform caters to a slightly different audience and type of item. Facebook Marketplace: This is a fantastic option for selling furniture, large appliances, and household goods locally. It's free to list items, and you can arrange for buyers to pick them up directly from your home, saving you the hassle of transportation. We recommend taking clear, well-lit photos and writing detailed descriptions to attract serious buyers. OfferUp & Craigslist: Similar to Facebook Marketplace, these platforms connect you with local buyers. They are great for a wide range of items, from electronics to home decor. Always prioritize safety when meeting buyers: arrange to meet in a public place if possible, or ensure you're not alone during a home pickup. Poshmark & Mercari: If you have brand-name clothing, shoes, and accessories in good condition, these apps are your best bet. They are designed for shipping items, which opens you up to a national market. While they take a small commission, the broad reach can lead to faster sales for your fashion items. Local Solutions: Consignment and Buy-Sell Shops For those who prefer a more hands-off approach, local consignment stores are an excellent resource. Consignment Shops: Prescott has several wonderful consignment stores that specialize in furniture, clothing, and home decor. You bring your items to them, and they handle the entire sales process. Once an item sells, you receive a percentage of the sale price. This is a great way to sell higher-end items without managing the listings and buyer communications yourself. Used Bookstores & Media Shops: Don't let old books, DVDs, and vinyl records collect dust. Local specialty shops will often buy these collections for cash or store credit. It’s a quick way to clear a lot of shelf space. Our team at Prescott Moving Company stays current on the best local shops and can point you toward the right one based on what you’re selling. The Power of Donation: Giving Back to the Community Donating your items is a wonderful way to declutter while supporting local charities and those in need. Plus, you can receive a tax deduction for your contributions. We can help you find reputable donation centers and even coordinate pickups for larger items. Local Prescott Donation Centers Goodwill & The Salvation Army: These well-known organizations accept a wide variety of goods, including clothing, furniture, electronics, and housewares. The revenue from their thrift stores funds job training programs and community outreach services. Many locations offer drive-thru drop-off points for convenience. Habitat for Humanity ReStore: If you're getting rid of building materials, appliances, furniture, or lighting fixtures, the ReStore is the perfect place. Your donations are sold to the public, and the proceeds help fund the construction of affordable homes in the community. They often offer a free pickup service for large donations, which is a huge help during a busy move. Local Shelters and Charities: Women's shelters, animal shelters, and other local nonprofit organizations are often in need of specific items. For example, animal shelters may need old towels and blankets, while a family shelter might need kitchen supplies and linens. We can help you connect with these groups to ensure your items go directly to those who can use them most. Responsible Disposal: When You Can't Sell or Donate Some items simply aren't in good enough condition to be sold or donated. However, that doesn't mean they have to end up in a landfill. Responsible disposal is a key part of an eco-friendly move. E-Waste and Hazardous Materials You can't just toss old electronics and certain household chemicals in the trash. These items contain materials that can be harmful to the environment. E-Waste Recycling: Old computers, monitors, printers, and televisions must be disposed of properly. The City of Prescott Transfer Station has designated days and procedures for accepting electronic waste. We can provide you with the latest schedule and guidelines to make this process easy. Household Hazardous Waste: Leftover paint, cleaning supplies, pesticides, and old batteries are considered hazardous waste. Yavapai County and the City of Prescott regularly host collection events where you can safely dispose of these materials for free. Planning ahead for one of these events is the best way to clear out your garage and under-sink cabinets responsibly. Junk Removal Services For large volumes of non-hazardous junk or bulky items that can't be donated, a professional junk removal service is your best option. These companies can quickly clear out anything you don't want, from old mattresses and broken furniture to general clutter. They will often sort through the items to recycle what they can. Prescott Moving Company has a network of trusted local junk removal partners we can recommend to get the job done efficiently. Let Prescott Moving Company Be Your Guide Moving is more than a one-day event; it's a process. At Prescott Moving Company, our service begins long before moving day. We act as your move coordinators, providing the resources and expert advice you need to feel prepared and in control. By helping you sell, donate, and dispose of unwanted items, we streamline your move, save you money, and reduce your stress. Your fresh start in a new home should be a joyful experience. Let us handle the heavy lifting—both literally and figuratively. If you’re planning a move, contact Prescott Moving Company today. Let’s talk about how we can help you lighten your load and make your transition seamless. Meta Title: Sell & Donate Items Before a Move | Prescott Moving Company Meta Description: Overwhelmed by clutter before your move? Prescott Moving Company shares expert tips and resources for selling, donating, and disposing of unwanted items.