Here is a list of guidelines you should consider as you prepare and pack up your possessions for storage:
To aid in stacking, use same-size boxes when possible.
Avoid storing items in plastic bags as they are less sturdy and could trap moisture.
Fill each box completely to prevent the top or sides from crushing. If your box is filled with odd-shaped or loose items fill the open spaces with crumpled paper, bubble wrap or other packing material.
Don’t fill boxes too full. This may cause them to burst.
Don’t make boxes too heavy to move. Use larger boxes for things that don’t weigh much and smaller ones for the heavy stuff.
Use the right type of box. For instance, use a heavy duty box for your books as this is less likely to break than a standard box. You still need to be careful not to overfill it, though. Wardrobe boxes allow you to hang up clothing and fabrics while in storage.
Stack books; don’t stand them on end as this could damage the spines.
Wrap framed art in bubble wrap. Look for protective cardboard or plastic corners at your packing supply store.
Criss-cross masking tape across the face of mirrors or glass-covered art.
Store framed mirrors, photographs and artwork vertically rather than flat.
Label boxes clearly and on more than one side. Be sure to mark boxes full of breakables as ‘fragile.’
Cover furniture with sheets or tarps to protect them from stains, tears and scratches.
Place heavy items on the bottom of your moving van or self storage unit.
Place least used items in front of the van so they can easily be placed behind other items in your self storage unit.
Place boxes of fragile items on top of other boxes.
Factor in a little more room than your belongings take up in order to allow space for you to walk between stacks of items. This will help you to find what you need after you store it. Leave a little room between the walls and the stored goods to improve ventilation.
Take a little time to plan and organize as you pack. This should make it easier to finds things in the future and less likely that anything will get damaged during a move or while in storage.
Storage Tips
Once you’ve decided to use temperature controlled storage, here is a checklist you can use to maximize your investment in a temperature controlled storage unit:
PLANNING
Make a list of all items you will be storing, noting which items you will need to access most readily.
Categorize your items. Ie. electronics, family photos, documents etc
Measure your large items.
Schedule transportation.
ORGANIZING
Buy or gather packing materials such as boxes, packing tape and paper
Create labels based on your list.
Collect blankets, newspaper, and bubble wrap to protect items.
Using your measurements, create a rough diagram of the unit, allowing for extra space for you to move around and for ventilation. Plan to place items you will need future access to at the front of the unit.
PACKING
Pack boxes efficiently with little wiggle room to maximize available space and prevent damage during moves
Place like items together.
Keep all pieces together. For example, place hardware in baggies and tape to the disassembled furniture.
Make sure delicate items are in closed boxes or covered containers.
Stick labels to all boxes and bags.
STORING
Consult with Site Manager regarding hours and unit information.
Organize the unit based on your diagram.
Make sure temperature-sensitive items have enough clearance for air to circulate.
Keep the list of stored items somewhere safe for quick and easy reference.
Contact the Site Manager with questions or for additional information.
