Packing Tips
What Not To Store
NO LIVE ANIMALS
NO EXPLOSIVES
NO FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS OR FUELS
NO TOXIC MATERIALS
NO PERISHABLES
NO LIQUIDS
ANYTHING REQUIRING A CONTROLLED ENVIRONMENT
Before You Pack
Declutter & Purge
The less you have to store, the more you can fit in your storage unit.
Find Same-Size Boxes/Storage Containers
This helps keep everything tight and clean in your storage unit, allowing you to stay organized and utilize the space well.
Clean Out Appliances
Thoroughly clean and dry your appliances and store with the doors slightly open.
Drain Gasoline and Oil
Make sure lawn mowers and other items with small engines are empty as they can leak, damaging other belongings and the locker
Prepare Bikes, Tools, and Metal Pieces
To slow rust, wipe all metal surfaces with a rag containing a few drops of machine oil. Long-handled tools — rakes, shovels and hoes — should be tied together in bundles.
Packing & Boxing
Pack Full, Same-Size Boxes
Use same-size boxes. Fill boxes compactly, but be sure to not overpack nor underpack. (Bulging boxes tip when stacked, while half full boxes will collapse). Use newspapers, bubblewrap, rags, towels, or blankets to fill empty spaces. Tape the boxes to ensure safety.
Keep Boxes Light
Put heavy items such as books, tools, and kitchenware in small boxes. For easier handling and physical safety, limit the boxes to 30 lbs. or less.
Label All Boxes
Label all four sides. Label boxes containing fragile items. Keep a list of what you have stored for reference.
Refrigerators and Freezers
Thoroughly dry and store with door slightly open. Some items can be kept, for space efficiency, inside large appliances. Make sure stoves and cooking equipment are well-cleaned before storing.
Dishes and Glassware
Put a layer of packing paper inside the bottom and top of cartons. Wrap each dish and glass separately and cushion them. Plates are best stacked on edge.
Lamps and Lampshades
Place in separate boxes. Use paper or clothing for padding.
Mirrors and Paintings
Store them in special mirror packs or large boxes.
Old Photographs
To prevent curling, keep them between pieces of cardboard and tape them together.
Awkward Stuff
Items that are too large for a box or cannot be hung can stored in dresser drawers, chests or wardrobe box along with other bedding and linens. Remove food crumbs or stains before storing.
Mattresses
Place covers or plastic bags on mattresses to keep them clean during storage.
Arranging Your Storage Unit
Front of the Unit
Place what you will most frequently need at the front of the unit. This allows you to access what you need most often without digging.
Central Walkway
When you pack your unit, leave a central walkway so you can easily access all of your belongings.
Storing Mattresses
Make sure mattresses are sitting straight and well-supported. If a mattress is twisted over a long period of time, it can warp the frame.
Storing Bed Rails
Tape or tie together (along with their nuts and bolts). Mark pieces for easier assembly later, and store along the walls if possible to maximize space.