Packing Tips

Pack in boxes.

Pack as much as possible in boxes to keep your items organized and protected from dust and dirt.

Use same-sized boxes.

Whenever possible, use the same size boxes or containers to maximize space and make stacking easier.

Fill boxes completely.

Fill boxes to capacity to prevent collapse or tipping. Avoid leaving space in boxes, as this can cause items to shift during transport.

Pack heavy items in small boxes.

Pack heavy items like books or tools in small boxes to prevent them from becoming too heavy to lift.

Label boxes.

Label boxes clearly with their contents and make a list of the boxes for easy reference when you need to find something.

Avoid sealing items with plastic.

Do not seal items with plastic, as this can trap moisture and lead to mold and mildew growth.

Visit your unit periodically.

It's recommended to visit your unit periodically to check on your items and make sure everything is in order.

Don't lean items against walls.

Avoid leaning items against walls, as this can cause damage and limit airflow in the unit.

Leave airspace around the perimeter.

Leaving airspace around the perimeter of the unit will aid in ventilation and help prevent moisture build up.

Create a walkway.

Leave a walkway to the rear of the storage unit if possible, to make it easier to access items at the back.

Use all available space.

Use all the space available, including height, to maximize your storage capacity.

Keep frequently used items near the door.

Place frequently used and seasonal items near the door for easy access.

Wrap fragile items.

Wrap fragile items with packing material to ensure their safety while in storage. Also, place frequently used items near the door for easy access.

Furniture

• Elevate upholstered items by placing them on a pallet or cardboard.
• Stand sofas and mattresses on end to save space.
• Disassemble beds, tables, and other furniture to optimize space.
• Protect table, bed, and chair legs by wrapping them in paper to prevent scratching.
• Place tables upside down with legs up on a padded surface.
• Cover all furniture with dust covers or bed linens to keep them clean.

Appliances

• Ensure refrigerators and freezers are thoroughly dry before storage, leaving the door slightly ajar.
• Utilize the space inside appliances for storing small boxes.
• Clean stoves and cooking equipment before storing.

Books, Files and Documents

• Pack books flat to protect their spines.
• Avoid packing books with fragile items.
• Don't overload boxes or cartons.

Clothing, Linens and Draperies

• Hang clothing, linens, and draperies in hanger boxes whenever possible.
• If not using hanger boxes, fold items carefully and store in sealed containers or drawers with cedar chips.
• Ensure all items are clean to prevent attracting pests.

Dishes, Glassware and Delicate Items

• Place thick packing material at the bottom and top of boxes containing glassware.
• Wrap delicate items individually.
• Pack heavier items at the bottom and lighter items at the top.
• Fill empty pockets with packing material.
• Label boxes containing dishes and glassware as "FRAGILE" and place them on top of heavier items.

Electrical Equipment

• Clean and dry all electrical equipment prior to storage.
• Store equipment with sealed doors slightly ajar.
• Remove batteries from items with removable batteries and store them separately.

Seasonal Decorations

• Use original packing materials if available or pack items in in packing tissue or newsprint.
• Wrap strings of lights around a piece of cardboard before placing them in a lined carton.

Lamps

• Wrap lamp bases in padded wrap and disassemble if possible.
• Pack smaller lamps in boxes and separate lamp shades.
• Avoid using newsprint to wrap lampshades or any goods that may be damaged by ink stains.

Mirrors, Windows and Screens

• Store these items on edge rather than flat.

Records and CDs

• Store records on edge to prevent warping.
• Keep CDs in jewel cases or small boxes to prevent breakage.