Here are some helpful suggestions to keep your valuables and keepsakes stored safely. For more suggestions and storage supplies, please see the Professional Storage Counselor at your location.
- Plan your storage space. Place those items that you need to get to often in the front. Allow for walkways.
- Completely fill each box with your heaviest items on the bottom and lighter items on top.
- Use uniform size boxes for easy stacking. BE SURE they’re strong enough to hold 25-30 lbs. (It is best not to put too much in each box.)
- Dishes and glasses should be wrapped in packing paper and placed in dish pack boxes. Stack those on top.
- Label contents of boxes on all four sides for easy identification, number the boxes to correspond with your inventory list, seal with masking tape or glued paper tape.
- Make up an inventory of your stored items and keep it in a safe place at home or in a safe deposit box.
- In the unit, pack your boxes and other items as close together as possible to avoid moisture accumulating between them.
- Leave a small space between the wall and your storage items to allow for ventilation.
- Stack lighter boxes on top of heavier boxes.
- Pictures and mirrors should be wrapped in mirror crates marked “FRAGILE” and stacked on end.
- Drain all gas and oil from engines in lawnmowers, tillers, etc.
- CAUTION: It is against the law to store materials that are HAZARDOUS or COMBUSTIBLE such as gasoline, solvents, paint, etc. Drain all remaining gasoline from lawn mowers, power tools, boats, snowmobiles, etc.
- Furniture with drawers can be utilized as storage places for knickknacks, china, silverware and small items. Wrap in tablecloths, towels or blankets to prevent breakage.
- Larger appliances make excellent “packing cases” for blankets, towels, tablecloths and clothes.
- Shovels, hoes, rakes and hoses can be stored together in empty trashcans. Stack extra cans inside one another.
- Tables with removable legs should be “broken down” to save space.
- Sofas and loveseats can be stored on end to save floor space. Always place a protective waterproof cover under the end on the floor. Cushions should be wrapped in plastic and placed on top.
- If you stand mattresses on end, be sure to “prop” them up to stand straight or they may bend out of shape and become lumpy.
- Use a HIGH QUALITY lock, for your unit. They are much harder to break or cut.