Packing Tips
How to Store Your Belongings
- Make sure your goods are dry and clean before you put them into storage. Drain and wipe down freezers, refrigerators and washing machines. Leave appliance doors slightly ajar. Use valuable storage space inside appliances for small items.
- Pack your property into similar sized cardboard storage boxes.
- Fill storage boxes to capacity, using soft padding where appropriate. Partially full or bulging boxes may collapse or tip over.
- Pack heavier items like files and books in smaller boxes so they are not too heavy.
- Label or number boxes for easy reference and keep an inventory of what you have stored.
- Protect fragile items with bubble wrap and avoid putting heavy items on top.
- Use wardrobe boxes to keep clothes and draperies in shape.
- When storing mattresses and box springs do not allow the mattress to bend or fold because the interior springs could break or possibly push a spring out through the cover of the mattress. Do not place mattresses or box springs in direct contact with concrete floors or against concrete walls. Place mattresses in plastic covers to prevent soiling. Both mattress and springs should be stored in a standing position, not laid down flat. Do not place any heavy items on top of a mattress in storage.
- Remove all perishable and inflammable items like food, aerosols, batteries and oil and gasoline.
- Pictures and mirrors should be wrapped in mirror crates marked FRAGILE and stacked on end.
- Books have a tendency to absorb any moisture that may be present in the atmosphere and since there is almost always some moisture present they need protection. Protect books by placing them in plastic bags and seal with tape then place the bag into sturdy packing cartons and seal the carton with tape. Be sure to mark the contents of the carton. Because books are heavy we recommend using several small or medium sized cartons rather than one large one.
- Furniture with drawers can be utilized as storage places for knick knacks, china, silverware, and small items. Wrap in tablecloths, towels or blankets to prevent breakage.
- Shovels, hoes, rakes and hoses can be stored together in empty trash cans. Stack extra cans inside one another.
- Dismantle furniture where possible and detach legs from tables and beds to save space.
- Remember, lift heavy items correctly; bend your knees – not your back!
Caution. It is against the law to store materials that are hazardous or combustible such as gasoline, solvents, paint, etc. Drain all remaining gasoline from lawn mowers, power tools, boats, snowmobiles, etc. before storing them.
Making the Most of Your Space
- Plan your storage. Put items you may need at the front.
- Remember, you can visit your storage unit as often as you want.
- Position boxes and items of similar size together to minimize wastage of space.
- Leave space for access to the rear of the unit.
- Place dust covers or protective covering over soft furnishings.
- Stack chairs seat to seat.
- Use dust covers to cover your property and on the floor of the storage unit.
- Use furniture covers or dust covers between surfaces to protect from scratches.