Storage Tips

Packing

• Tip #1 – Planning beforehand will make packing easier. Strong boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, sealing tape, markers, and furniture covers should be gathered before moved.

• Tip #2 – Sealing boxes firmly with packing tape will stop dust from coming into them.
• Tip #3 – Wrap furniture legs with protective bubble wrap, furniture covers or pads to prevent scratching. Protect furniture legs from scratching by covering them with bubble wrap, furniture covers or pads. Use plastic chair covers and slipcovers over upholstered chairs. Tape bed rails or tie them together after all the pieces are marked for easier assembly. Cover mattresses to keep them clean with plastic bags and/or covers.
• Tip #4 – Label boxes on all sides for easy identification, and state whether or not they are fragile. Place fragile ones atop others that are heavier or are less delicate. Make a reference list to be kept at your home or workplace including pictures and descriptions.

• Tip #5 – All space inside dresser drawers and large appliances is valuable and can be used. Fill them up with small and/or fragile items them stuff with towels or packing paper to secure.

• Tip #6 – Pack as much as you can in the same size boxes. Boxes should be filled to the brim. Not over packed to reduce bulging and overturning.  Then secure by filling empty spaces and sealing with tape.

• Tip #7 –  Store heavy objects in small boxes weighing no more than 30 lbs. Limiting the weight of boxes simplifies handling.

• Tip #8 – Clean and dry appliances before storing. Clean appliances then dry them before storing, after securing their moving parts with paper or a paper pad. Wedge and wrap an additional pad around them, to avoid damage. 

• Tip #9 – Pack books flat to protect their spines. 

• Tip #10 – Use plenty paper when packing dishes and glassware. Layer the bottom and top of the carton with packing paper. Wrap each item individually and cushion them with crumpled paper. 

• Tip #11 –  Clothes and drapes should be stored in wardrobe boxes.

• Tip #12 – Lamps and their shades should be packed in separate boxes. Pad them with plenty of clean paper or clothing.

• Tip #13 – Mirrors and paintings should be padded with paper and placed in special marked mirror packs or cartons.

Storage

• Tip #1 – Most frequently used items should be stored at the unit’s front.
• Tip #2 – When stacking up your storage unit, construct a center aisle to make it easier access.

• Tip #3 – It’s best to use pallets or skids to place boxes on to allow air to flow under and around them.

• Tip #4 – Store furniture and table legs store at the back in order to save space.

• Tip #5 – Store photographs flat between cardboard and tape them together to avoid curling overtime.

• Tip #6 – Remove gas and oil from lawn mowers and other engines.

• Tip #7 – Use common sense and state laws to guide you as to what can be stored. Although you alone have access to your storage space, don’t store things such as animals, explosive, firearms etc. which need a controlled environment.

• Tip #8 – Use your garbage cans to store garden tools.

• Tip #9 – Mattresses should be covered and stored horizontally.

• Tip #10- Treat wood surfaces and place protective covers on them before storing.
• Tip #11 – Rub machine oil on metals using a cloth to prevent rusting.
• Tip #12 – Use your wardrobe as extra storage by placing blankets, drapes, and clothing inside.

• Tip #13 – Use only high quality locks to secure your unit. These may be bought on site.  Ask the manager for recommendations.

• Tip #14 – Whenever possible, place dressers and tables top-to-top to save space.