How to Pack a Garage and Storage Area for a Move
The garage is almost always the last room people pack — and the one that causes the most stress on moving day. It is usually the most disorganized space in the house, full of items that have been accumulating for years. Starting early and working systematically makes it manageable.
Start 2–3 Weeks Early
The garage takes longer to pack than any other room. Start at least 2–3 weeks before your move date. This gives you time to:
- Sort through everything and decide what to keep, donate, or discard
- Dispose of hazardous materials properly
- Pack systematically without rushing
Step 1: Sort and Declutter
Before you pack a single item, sort everything into four categories:
- Keep and move — items you use and want at the new address
- Donate or sell — items in good condition you no longer need
- Discard — broken, worn out, or no longer useful items
- Hazardous materials — items that cannot go in the moving truck
Most garages have a significant amount of items in categories 2–4. Moving is the best time to clear them out.
Step 2: Handle Hazardous Materials
Moving companies cannot transport hazardous materials. This includes:
- Gasoline and fuel containers
- Paint, paint thinner, and solvents
- Propane tanks (even empty ones)
- Pesticides and herbicides
- Pool chemicals
- Batteries (car batteries and large batteries)
- Aerosol cans under pressure
Options for disposal:
- Metro Vancouver Hazardous Waste Facilities accept most household hazardous materials for free
- Many hardware stores accept paint for recycling
- Gas-powered tools should have their fuel tanks drained before moving
Step 3: Pack Tools
Hand tools (hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches, pliers):
- Pack in small boxes — tools are heavy
- Wrap sharp tools (chisels, utility knives, saws) individually in packing paper or bubble wrap
- Organize by type if possible for easier unpacking
Power tools:
- Use original cases if you have them
- If not, wrap in moving blankets and pack in medium boxes
- Remove batteries from cordless tools and pack separately
- Drain fuel from gas-powered tools (chainsaws, leaf blowers, lawn mowers)
Large tools and equipment (lawn mower, snow blower, pressure washer):
- Drain all fuel before moving
- The crew will wrap these in moving blankets and load them in the truck
Step 4: Pack Sports and Recreational Equipment
Bicycles: The crew can move bicycles as-is. Remove pedals if possible to prevent them from catching on other items.
Sports equipment: Pack in large boxes or move as-is depending on the item. Balls, helmets, and pads pack well in large boxes. Skis, snowboards, and golf clubs can be moved in their bags or cases.
Camping gear: Tents, sleeping bags, and camping equipment pack well in large boxes or duffel bags.
Step 5: Pack Seasonal Items
Seasonal items — holiday decorations, seasonal clothing, camping gear — are often stored in the garage. Pack them in clearly labelled boxes:
- CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS — FRAGILE
- CAMPING GEAR — GARAGE
- WINTER SPORTS EQUIPMENT
Step 6: Pack Storage Bins and Totes
Plastic storage totes with secure lids can be moved as-is — no need to repack them. Make sure:
- The lid is firmly attached (use tape if needed)
- The tote is not too heavy to lift safely (50 lbs maximum)
- Each tote is labelled with its contents and destination
Labelling
Label every box and tote clearly with:
- Contents
- Destination (Garage, Basement, Storage)
- HEAVY for boxes with tools or dense items
- FRAGILE for anything breakable
Ready to Move?
Get a free quote for your Metro Vancouver move, or call 778-200-8825. We serve all of Metro Vancouver and surrounding areas, 7 days a week.