Packing and Storage Tips

Here are a few practical tips to help ensure a successful packing and storage experience.

• You will want to make the most of your storage space, so to aid in stacking, use similar sized boxes or plastic bins.
• Pack lighter items such as bedding and towels in larger boxes and heavier items such as books and garage items in smaller boxes to make them easier to lift.  
• Label boxes clearly and on all sides.  Write an inventory of what is in the box on at least one side.  Label boxes with breakables as “Fragile.”  It is helpful to keep an inventory of items stored in your unit in a safe place at home.
• Plan your storage space. Store frequently used items towards the front of the unit to avoid having to search for them later.
• Appliances should be completely clean and dry.  Doors should be kept slightly ajar while storing. Do not leave anything inside.
• Store mattresses and box springs on their long edges.  Wrap both individually in a mattress bag to provide added protection.  Store them elevated off the floor, if possible.  Any concrete floor can become cold and damp.
• Use blankets or sheets to cover furniture to keep it from being scratched or damaged.  Then cover with plastic to protect from dust or moisture.  Polish/wax wood furniture to provide extra protection.
• Store fragile items upright.  Never lay them flat!  Criss-cross mirrors and framed art with masking tape and sandwich them between pieces of cardboard to provide added protection.  
• Place TVs and other electronics towards the rear of your unit.
• Fill boxes completely to prevent the top or sides from being crushed.  If the box is filled with odd shaped or loose items, pack empty spaces with crumbled paper, bubble wrap or some other type of packing material.  Towels and sheets are also a great way to fill spaces.
• When choosing a storage unit, factor a little extra space so that you are able to walk between stacks of items.  This will make it easier to find those items that you may need later. You will also want to leave a small space between your stored items and the wall of the storage unit to allow for ventilation.
• DO NOT STORE THESE ITEMS:  Pets, plants or any living thing, food or any other perishable item (this will attract bugs and rodents), expensive or irreplaceable items, drugs or drug paraphernalia, any item that will produce an odor, or any type of hazardous material.
• Be sure to use a high-quality round padlock!  This type of lock is very difficult to cut or pick, so it offers the greatest protection for very little money.