Packing & Storage Tips
Packing and storing items isn’t as simple as just filling boxes!
Let us help you Below are a few tips on how to box your items while keeping you, and your belongings, protected.
Do:
- Use pallets, 2 x 4's, plywood, any thing that will keep your items off the floor of the unit.
- Utilize all the space in your unit. Make a plan
as to how you are going to arrange your items. A good plan will save
you the time of having to rearrange your unit. Leave an aisle in the
center of your unit so that you have a walk way to the back of the unit.
- Use freestanding shelves to help organize your unit.
- Label the boxes on all six sides and keep a list for
easy reference. This will save you time if you have to look for
something in particular. When packing boxes fill them without making
them too heavy to lift. Always put the heavier boxes on the bottom
and the lighter ones on top of the heavier ones. This will prevent
boxes from being crushed. Keep boxes off the floor.
- Be sure to store frequently used items at the front of
the unit to avoid having to search for them.
- To protect your items cover them with moving pads,
sheets, or light blankets.
- Be sure to check your unit once a month.
- Disassemble items such as tables, bed frames,
etc. This will save space. Wrap and label all pieces for an
easier time when you have to reassemble them. Put all hardware in
bags and mark the bags accordingly.
- When you disassemble electronics, such as computers,
stereos, things that have numerous cords, place small colored stickers on
the cord and the same color sticker where the cord goes. This will
save you the hassle of trying to figure out what goes where when it comes
time to reassemble your electronics. If possible, use the original
boxes to store your electronics and other items.
- Make sure that all appliances are clean and dry before
storing them. Leave appliances slightly ajar to prevent mildew.
- If it is possible store couches on end. Stack chairs
seat to seat. Use the inside of appliances and drawers to store
smaller items. When stacking furniture use paper pads in between the
items to avoid scratching.
- Store mattresses and box springs on long edges. Wrap for protection and elevate off the floor. Use two to three 2 x 4's cut to 1 foot long.
- Store mirrors and paintings on end, not flat. Pack books flat to protect their spines.
- To prevent rusting rub a small amount of machine oil on
metal tools, bicycles, and equipment. Drain and clean all debris
from all equipment before you store them.
- When wrapping collectibles or anything breakable, tape
it after you wrap it. This should avoid mistaking them for excess
paper to fill the box. Use bubble wrap or unprinted paper to wrap
breakables. Group similar items together and mark the boxes
accordingly.
- Clothing and draperies should be stored in wardrobe
boxes, on hangers, to retain their original shapes.
- Purchase the insurance. If your belongings are worth
storing, they are worth insuring.
- Rubbermaid containers are great to store your
items. They have tight fitting lids and stack easily. Keep the
more valuable items in the rear of the unit. This will prevent
others from seeing them when you are in your unit.
Don't:
- Do not use plastic to cover your belongings. It
retains moisture.
- Do not store any food items. This will prevent
any unwanted guests.
- Do not pack your boxes so that they are too heavy to
carry them. Especially when you are packing books.
- Do not assume that your homeowners or renters insurance
will cover your belongings while in storage. Purchase the insurance.
- Do not give out your password, gate code or any
information to any one that is not listed as having access.
- Do not use printed newspaper for wrapping. The
ink may smudge and get on your items.
- Do not forget to clean appliances before you store
them.
- Do not store any toxins or flammables such as paint,
oil, or gasoline.