Storage Tips

• Smallest Space
  Rent the smallest amount of space you will need, and pack the unit full.

• Gather Materials
  Start by gathering as many boxes as you think you will need as well as tape, markers, and packing material (e.g., foam shipping noodles, bubble wrap, packing paper or towels).

• Uniform Sizes
  If possible, try to use uniformly sized boxes for easy stacking.

• Inventory
  Make up an inventory list of your items and keep it in a safe place (at home or in a safe deposit box) away from the unit.

• Prepare
  Prepare your space by placing a protective cover on the floor under your goods.

• Keep Dry
  Place your storage items on 2×4 boards or on pallets to guard against dampness. Any concrete floor may become cold and damp.

• Access
  Plan your storage space. Place items that you may need to access often in the front of the unit.

• CAUTION
  Do not store anything COMBUSTIBLE (e.g., paint thinner, gasoline, solvents, or paint).

• Easier Access
  Try to leave an aisle down the center of the storage unit for easier access. Leave a small space between the walls and boxes to allow for air circulation.

• Stack
  Stack heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter boxes on top.

• Strong Boxes
  Be sure your boxes are strong enough to hold 25-30 pounds (although we suggest not putting too much in each box).

• List Contents
  List contents of boxes on all four sides; number the boxes and seal with tape.

• Wrap It Up
  Dishes and glasses should be wrapped in paper and packed in sturdy boxes. Stack them on top.

• Fragile
  Pictures and mirrors should be wrapped in cardboard, marked “FRAGILE” and stacked on end.

• Extra Space
  Furniture with drawers can be utilized as storage places for pictures, knick-knacks, china, silverware, small items, etc. Wrap them in tablecloths, towels, or blankets to prevent breakage.

• Appliances
  Larger appliances make excellent “packaging cases” for blankets, towels, tablecloths and clothes.

• Electronics
  Put TVs and other electronics in the rear of your unit.

• Stored Together
  Shovels, hoes, rakes, and hoses can be stored together in empty trash cans. Stack extra cans inside each other.

• Removable Legs
  Tables that have removable legs should be broken down to save space.

• Sofas and Loveseats
  Sofas and loveseats can be stored on end to save floor space. Wrap cushions in plastic and place on top of sofas.

• Sharp or Heavy Objects
  Avoid placing sharp or heavy objects on top of upholstered furniture.

• Stuffed Furniture
  Cover stuffed furniture with cardboard or blankets to protect against dust.

• Mattresses
  If you stand mattresses on their sides, prop them up so they stand straight. Otherwise, they tend to bend out of shape and become lumpy.

• Metal Items
  Wipe any items made of metal – bikes, metal tables, tools, etc. – with machine oil to prevent rusting.