Packing Tips 1. Keep the following supplies handy for packing: boxes, marking pen, bubble wrap, newspaper and tissue, tape and scissors, tape measure. 2. Label each box with the room the box contents belong in. Write "Open First" on cartons containing essential items such as cooking utensils, toiletries, etc.. Write "Fragile" on each side of a box that contains delicate items. 3. Use large boxes for light items and smaller boxes for heavier items. 4. For stacking purposes, try to keep your boxes in uniform sizes. Keep the heavy ones on the bottom and the light ones on top. 5. Fill boxes to capacity because partially full or bulging boxes may tip or collapse.
Choosing the Right Storage Place The first thing you need to consider is which self storage facility to use. If you're unsure, visit some facilities and check them out first before you choose. By the time you make your choice, you should be comfortable with the following: a) Security features in place- lighting is key. b) Access to your storage unit when you need it. c) The units are the right size for your needs and future needs. d) The storage units are clean and well maintained.
Organizing Your Storage Unit 1. Use all the space available, including the height. 2. Place a pallet on concrete floors and leave a walkway in your space for easy access. 3. Placing frequently used items near the door. Label your boxes and take home an inventory list of the labeled boxes for easy reference when you need to located your goods. 4. Heavy items like books or tools should be packed in small boxes so they are easier to lift. 5. Protect your fragile goods with packing and place them near the top of your storage space.
Storing Appliances 1. Tape doors shut while moving your appliances 2. A refrigerator, or freezer, should be dry and stored with the door slightly open to prevent the build up of mold/mildew and odors. Some goods can be stored inside large appliances and boxes can be stacked on top of stoves, refrigerators and freezers.
Storing Bedding, Clothing, Curtains, Drapes and Linens 1. Clothing, curtains and drapes should be stored on non rusting hangers. You can purchase moving boxes designed for this or such items should be carefully folded and stored in dresser drawers, or cedar chests along with bedding or linens. 2. Use cedar chips, or moth balls, to prevent moth, or insect damage.
Storing Books and Documents 1. Pack books flat, to protect their spines, and together in small boxes for easier moving. 2. Consider placing boxes on pallets or skids to prevent moisture absorption. 3. Store your valuable papers and documents in plastic bags.
Storing Bicycles and Other Metal Items 1. It might be a good idea to put a few drops of oil on items that might rust. Insure that these items don't come in contact with other items. 2. For lawn mowers and motorcycles, remove all gas and oil and store on a plastic sheet.
Storing Dishes and Glassware 1. All glass items should be individually wrapped. Wrapped glasses should be placed near the top of the cartons. 2. Do not place heavy items on boxes containing glassware.
Storing Electronic Equipment 1. Use the original boxes. If you don't have them, pack items carefully and use cushion material such as bubble wrap, for or wadded up newspaper. 2. Pack items separately. 3. Consider the temperature, as heat can warp CD's and record albums.
Storing Furniture 1. Disassemble bed frames and tie them together. Use plastic bags to store screws and bolts and tape them to the items they belong to. 2. If you stack furniture items, place pads, blankets or towels between them to prevent scratching. 3. Store frames in back corner to prevent them from falling over on other items. Don't use plastic to cover items as moisture can condense under it. Consider using sheets or cotton cloth. 4. Stand mattresses on end, as well as sofas with pallets or cardboard under them. It is a good idea to wrap mattresses in mattress bags or cover them with paper or cloth. Stand mattress on something to allow air flow and to prevent moisture from getting to them.
Storing Pictures and Mirrors Wrap pictures that are small and consider special picture moving boxes for larger ones. Consider using foam or bubble wrap.
What not to Store 1. Flammables 2. Hazardous Materials 3. Fuel 4. Used Cans 5. Food
Tips for Packing Your Storage Unit
1. Leave a small space between the wall and your items to allow for ventilation. 2. Do not lean items against the walls as to leave air space around the unit's perimeter to aid ventilation. 3. Laying plastic sheeting on the floor and stacking boxes on top of wooden pallets can prevent condensation damage. 4. Pack your boxes and other items as close together as possible to avoid moisture accumulating between them. 5. Leave access space in front of the unit, and keep your frequently used items where you can easily reach them. 6. Stacking uniform boxes help maximize your available space. 7. Leave small walkways between boxes and furniture in your storage unit so you can easily get to the items you want without having to move anything around.
Disclaimer: This information is provided to assist you in your packing, moving and self storage needs. It is offered as advice only and is without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The entire risk as to the results and performance of these tips is assumed by the user.
