Storage Tips
Prepare your room for storage, and make sure to pack your items the right way.
- Use Pallets
- Place your storage items on 2x4 boards or on pallets to guard against dampness. Any concrete floor may become cold and damp.
- Don't Store Combustible Materials
- CAUTION! Do not store anything COMBUSTIBLE (i.e., paint thinner, gasoline, solvents, paint, etc.)
- Use Uniform Boxes
- Use uniform size boxes for easy stacking. Be sure your boxes are strong enough to hold 25-30 pounds. (It is best not to put too much in each box.) Use larger boxes for lighter items like bedding, blankets and linens. Use the smaller boxes for heavy items like books and dishes.
- Watch Box Weight
- Don’t overload. You should be able to easily lift the box.
- Don't Stuff Boxes
- Make sure the box is square and not bulging so it can be easily stacked.
- Hang Items
- Hang things up. We sell boxes that serve as wardrobes.
- Use Good Packing Tape
- Use good quality tape. We sell good tape that will stay stuck for the long term.
- Stack Boxes
- Think about stacking to make the best use of your space. Stack lighter boxes on top of heavier boxes.
- Leave Space
- Keep items about 1 inch from walls to allow for proper air circulation.
- Dishes & Glassware
- Dishes and glasses should be wrapped in paper and packed in sturdy boxes. Stack them on top.
- Fragile Items
- Pictures and mirrors should be wrapped in cardboard and marked "FRAGILE" and stacked on end.
- Use Furniture for Storage
- Furniture with drawers can be utilized as storage places for pictures, knick-knacks, china, silverware, small items, etc. Wrap them in tablecloths, towels or blankets to prevent breakage.
- Cover Furniture
- Cover and pad beds and furniture with protective material to ensure they stay in perfect condition.
- Appliances
- Larger appliances make excellent "packaging cases" for blankets, towels, tablecloths and clothes.
- Yard Tools
- Shovels, hoes, rakes and hoses can be stored together in empty trash cans. Stack extra cans inside each other.
- Tables
- Tables having removable legs should be broken down to save space. Place any screws in a plastic bag and tape to the frame.
- Plan Your Space
- In order to maximize your space, develop a plan and make sure to label your items clearly and correctly.
- Sofas
- Sofas and love seats can be stored on end to save floor space. Always place a protective cover under the item on the concrete. Cushions may be wrapped in plastic and placed on top.
- Mattresses
- If you stand mattresses on their side, prop them up so they stand straight. They may tend to bend out of shape and become lumpy.
- Rent the Smallest Space
- Rent the smallest amount of space you need and pack the space full.
- No Food
- To prevent bug infestation and rodents, no food or food items should be stored. (If absolutely necessary, food staples should be sealed in plastic zip locks within another plastic bag.)
- Electronics
- Put TV's and other electronics in the rear of your unit. Wrap them in tablecloths, towels, or blankets to prevent breakage.
- Plan Your Space
- Plan your storage space. Place those items that you may need to access often in the front.
- Leave Walkways
- Allow for walkways down the middle of your room.
- Make an Inventory
- Make up an inventory of your items and keep it in a safe place at home or in a safe deposit box.
- Mark Boxes
- Make sure to put an arrow on the box so that you know what side is the top.
- List Items on Box Sides
- List contents of boxes on all four sides; number the boxes and seal with tape.
- Catalog Your Locker
- Take pictures using you smartphone to catalog your locker.
- Create a "Storage Map"
- Create a map so you know where things are stacked in case you need to get to it.
- Frequently Used Items
- Keep frequently used items in the front of your locker.