Storage Tips

General Tips

  • Use the right packing boxes for the items to be packed.
  • Use smaller boxes for heavier items and larger boxes for lighter items. Stacking boxes is easier if you have multiple boxes of the same size.
  • Fill all of your boxes completely but not bulging or overloaded. Use newsprint or packing peanuts if you need to fill a box. a box that is not completely filled will collapse and a bulging box will not be stable.
  • Use bubble wrap, newsprint and/or dishbox inserts for breakable or fragile items such as china, glasses, etc. Wrap each item separately. You can nest cups and bowls.
  • Label all boxes on several sides and seal all boxes with packing tape.

The "Do's" of Self Storage

  • Utilise all of 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 walkway to the access back of the 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 stack the lighter boxes on top to prevent boxes from being crushed.
  • 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 hard ware in bags and mark the bags accordingly.
  • 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.
  • Wrap mirrors, framed paintings and pictures in mirror crates. Mark these items as "FRAGILE" and stack them on end, not flat.
  • 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 tenant insurance. If your belongings are worth storing, they are worth insuring.
  • Leave a small space between the wall and your storage items to allow for ventilation. Be sure to store frequently used items at the front of the unit to avoid having to search for them. Keep out-of-season clothes accessible; you may have your belongings in storage longer than anticipated.
  • If you stand mattresses on end, be sure to "prop" them up to straight to prevent misshaping or becoming lumpy.
  • Use larger appliances as "packing cases" for blankets, towels, tablecloths and clothes. Shovels, hoes, rakes and hoses can be stored inside of empty trash cans. Stack extra cans inside one another.
  • 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.
  • Store knickknacks, china, silverware and small items in furniture with drawers. Wrap in tablecloths, towels or blankets to prevent breakage. Store clothing and draperies in wardrobe boxes, on hangers, to retain their original shapes.
  • Use a HIGH QUALITY lock, preferably a "disc lock", for your unit. They are much harder to break or cut, keeping your valuables as safe as possible.

The "Dont's" of Self Storage

  • 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 forget to clean appliances before you store them.
  • There are certain items that should never be stored at a self storage facility, such as explosives, flammable liquids, toxic items, any type of fuel, anything alive or perishable.
  • If an item requires ventilation, light or any other type of controlled environment, it should not be stored with us.
  • Always drain all fuel tanks before storing cars, motorcycles, lawn mowers, etc. Battery cables should also be disconnected.