Packing Tips
Tip #1 Make packing easier by planning ahead Gather up plenty of sturdy, corrugated boxes, packing paper, bubble wrap, sealing tape and marking pens, along with any furniture covers.
Tip #2 Seal boxes tightly with packing tape This will prevent dust from entering while in storage or transit.
Tip #3 Wrap furniture legs with protective bubble wrap, furniture covers or pads to prevent scratching. Leave slipcovers on upholstered chairs and cover them with plastic chair covers. Mark bed rail pieces for easier assembly later then tape or tie them together. Place covers or plastic bags on mattresses to keep them clean during storage.
Tip #4 Label boxes on all sides for easy identification Keep a list of their contents (as well as pictures and descriptions) at your home or office for reference. Clearly mark all boxes containing fragile items and make sure they are placed on top of heavier, less delicate boxes.
Tip #5 Use valuable space inside dresser drawers and larger appliances Empty spaces in stoves, refrigerators, and drawers are perfect places to store small items such as towels, linens, and small, fragile items. Secure items in drawers by filling empty spaces with towels or packing paper.
Tip #6 Use the same size boxes whenever possible for easier stacking Fill boxes tightly, but take care not to over- or under-pack (bulging boxes tip when stacked, while half full boxes tend to collapse). Use wadded up newsprint, bubble wrap, rags, towels, or blankets to fill in empty spaces. For maximum protection seal boxes with tape.
Tip #7 Pack heavy items like books and tools in small boxes For easier handling limit the weight of all boxes, regardless of size, to 30lbs. or less.
Tip #8 Clean and dry appliances before storing Secure or wedge all movable parts and wrap padding around each item for protection. During transport, tape all doors shut but remember to wedge them open for storage.
Tip #9 Pack books flat to protect their spines Line boxes with plastic and fill empty spaces with packing paper.
Tip #10 Use plenty of paper to pack dishes and glassware Place a layer of packing paper along the top and bottom of boxes. Wrap each dish and glass separately and cushion them with crumpled paper. Plates are best stacked on edge.
Tip #11 Hang clothes and draperies in wardrobe boxes These specialized boxes will save you hours of ironing when you arrive at your new home.
Tip #12 Pack lamps and lampshades in individual boxes Use plenty of clean paper or clothing for padding.
Tip #13 Pad mirrors and paintings with paper Avoid newsprint as the ink could transfer to your artwork. Place them in special mirror packs or large boxes and label the packaging accordingly.
Storage Tips
Tip #1 Store items you'll need most often at the front of the unit.
Tip #2 When you pack your storage unit, create a center aisle for access to all items.
Tip #3 Do not place boxes directly on concrete floors. Use pallets or skids to allow air flow around and under items.
Tip #4 If you're storing tables and other furniture, remove the legs. To save space, store tabletops and sofas on end.
Tip #5 Old photographs tend to curl over time. To keep them flat place them between two pieces of cardboard and tape the cardboard together
Tip #6 Drain gasoline and oil from lawn mowers and other items with small engines.
Tip #7 State law determines what may be stored. You alone control access to your storage space. We prohibit the storage of firearms, illicit drugs or drug paraphernalia, live animals, perishables, liquids, explosives, flammable liquids and fuels and toxic materials.
Tip #8 Use trash cans to store shovels, hoes, rakes and other items with long handles.
Tip #9 Mattresses should be covered and stored flat on level surfaces.
Tip #10 Use protective covers and treat wood surfaces before storing.
Tip #11 To prevent rust wipe all metal surfaces with a rag containing a few drops of machine oil.
Tip #12 Pack blankets, draperies, and dress clothes on the hanger in a wardrobe box.
Tip #13 Always use high quality locks on your unit. Locks are available for sale—just ask your site manager for a recommendation.
Tip #14 Items sensitive to humidity should always be stored in a climate controlled unit.
Tip #15 Whenever possible, place dressers and tables top-to-top to save space.