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How to properly prepare your belongings before storage

Overhead view of packing moving boxes, with folded clothes and books

Good storage doesn’t start when the courier picks up your package — it starts when you pack the box. Poorly packed items get damaged even in the safest warehouse, while a well-prepared package stays in the same condition whether you store it for a month or a year.

Choose the right box

The box should be sturdy and the right size for what you’re putting inside. A box that’s too big with a lot of empty space means things shift and knock around during transport; a box that’s too small easily bends or splits under the weight. If you’re not sure which size fits your items, compare them against the standard dimensions on the pricing page before booking a courier.

Protect fragile items

  • Wrap fragile items individually in paper or bubble wrap, not all together.
  • Fill empty space in the box (newspaper, fabric) to prevent shifting.
  • Put heavier items at the bottom of the box, lighter and fragile ones on top.
  • Don’t overpack a single box — its weight should stay something one person can carry.

Protection from moisture and odor

Textiles and paper materials are the most sensitive to moisture during longer storage. Wash and fully dry clothing and bedding before packing — damp fabric develops odor and mold even in a dry space. For extra protection, use zip-lock bags or vacuum bags for clothing you won’t need for a while.

Label every box

When a package comes back after several months, it’s hard to remember what’s where. A short list of contents on the box (or at least categories: “winter clothes,” “books,” “kitchenware”) saves you time when unpacking and helps if you need to request a return of only part of your items.

Think about the period in advance

The storage period affects how carefully you need to prepare things — seasonal gear waiting a few months doesn’t need the same preparation as documents sitting for years. Vora’s storage period ranges from one month to over a year and can be adjusted afterward, so you don’t have to guess the exact return date in advance.

Once your items are packed, the rest of the process is simple: choose a courier, confirm your pickup address, and your package goes into our monitored warehouse until you need it again. Read more about the process on the How it works page.

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