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Label Everything
Before putting items in a box, make a list and assign each to their respective boxes. Be sure to label each box on all 4 sides as well as the top of the box. If there are breakables, place “fragile” stickers on the box.
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Take Inventory
Be sure to make a list of everything that is being stored in your unit and keep this list in a safe place.
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Appliance Storage and Prep
Freezers and refrigerators should be stored with the door slightly open and should be cleaned before storing. Electrical appliances should be completely dry – defrost freezers and refrigerators, drain washing machines completely.
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Create an Aisle for Easy Access
Make an aisle between stored items to allow easy access to your belongings. Try to keep belongings that are most used towards the front for easy future access.
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Allow Air to Circulate
Leave space between your items and the unit’s wall for air to circulate within the unit protecting your stored items from moisture and mildew.
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Create a Barrier on the Floor
Laying a plastic sheet on the floor and stacking boxes on top of wooden pallets can prevent condensation damage. Concrete floors may become damp and cold.
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Filling Boxes to the Top
Be sure when packing your boxes to completely fill them to the top so if you put another box on the top of it your box will not collapse.
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Ideas for Consolidating your Items
Try to utilize any and all space in your unit. Store blankets, sheets, décor, etc. in dresser drawers. Use garbage cans to put rakes, shovels, hoes etc. Larger appliances can be used for packing towels, clothes, and blankets. Remove legs from tables to help save on space if possible.
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Storing Outdoor Equipment
Lawnmowers, Weed Eaters, and Blowers or like outdoor gas items should all be drained of gas before storing.
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DO NOT STORE
Anything combustible, flammable, or toxic is completely prohibited. Examples: paint thinner, gasoline, paint, or solvents. Live animals are not allowed to be stored in the units. Anything perishable should not be stored either as this promotes bugs and possible infestation in your unit.
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Protect your Furniture
Wrap mattresses or upholstered furniture with special bags or wrap to protect from moisture. Mattresses need to be stored upright and straight to protect from bending out of shape.
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Storing Books
When packing books, don’t fill up one big box with them. Use smaller book boxes. Also, don’t store the books standing on end. Rather, put them flat on the boxes so that their spines will not be damaged.
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Wrap your Breakables
Remember to use bubble wrap or peanut packing when packing your breakables. Wrap mirrors and picture frames with bubble wrap and be sure to lay these items on the edge not flat. Individually wrap glass wear and breakable decorations with bubble wrap and be sure to label your box FRAGILE. These boxes should never be stored at the bottom of a stack.
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Prevent Items from Rusting
For items that have the potential to rust, it is always a good idea to oil them down prior to storing them for long periods of time. Examples: tools, bicycles, and certain metal items.
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Importance of Lock
Use a high quality lock, preferably a disc lock as these locks are much harder to break or cut. Avoid using a padlock if at all possible.
