- A storage unit is a place to store your property either long or short term. It is designed to allow some air circulation into the space. As such you should expect that just as in your own home dust will collect over time. Unless you are in a heated, cooled or humidity controlled space, the air will be a similar temperature and level of relative humidity as the air outside. You should avoid storing things that are affected by extreme hot or cold temperatures.
- Rent the correct amount of space you will need. Always allow for as much air flow as possible among your stored items. Use strips of wood such as 2x4’s or pallets underneath to allow air circulation. NEVER place items directly against the walls or directly on the concrete floor. These areas could be subject to condensation under certain conditions.
- Start packing by gathering as many boxes that you think you will need, tape, markers and packing material (i.e. foam shipping noodles, bubble wrap, packing paper or towels). Things to Avoid – printed newspaper as the ink can rub off easily. Used boxes from the super market or liquor store – they can smell like food and attract unwanted pests. We sell quality new boxes at the best rates in the area. Ask about “bundle discounts”
- If Possible, try to use uniform size boxes for easy stacking. Fill boxes as much as possible so they are solid when stacking other boxes on top. Consider plastic totes for long term storage. They stack easily and last forever. Stack heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter boxes on top. Remember – use smaller boxes for heavy items, larger boxes for lighter items. Sure a large box may hold the contents of your entire book case but when packed it may weigh more than you can lift!
- Make up an inventory of your items and keep it in the unit for future visits. Simply number all four corners of each box. Write that number on the paper and note the contents. We offer FREE inventory forms at the rental office. Using this system can save you much time later when you need something from one of those 57 boxes in your storage space.
- Plan your storage space. Place those items that you may need to access often in the front include things such as change of season clothing, etc.
- CAUTION! Do not store anything COMBUSTIBLE (i.e., Paint thinner, gasoline, solvents, LP Gas tanks, etc.) All combustibles and explosives are prohibited by rental agreement and local ordinance.
- If you're storing upholstered products such as mattresses and sofas it’s a good idea to invest in covers, bags or sheeting to give them some additional protection. If you're storing a few items of furniture on top of each other, a simple dust sheet or cover placed between items will minimize scratching and damage.
- Try to leave an aisle down the center of the storage unit for easier access.
- Dishes and glasses should be wrapped in paper and packed in sturdy boxes marked "FRAGILE". Stack them on top.
- Pictures and mirrors should be wrapped in cardboard and marked “FRAGILE” and stacked on end.
- 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.
- Larger appliances make excellent “packaging cases” for blankets, towels, tablecloths and clothes.
- Put TV's and other electronics in the rear of your unit out of sight.
- Shovels, hoes, rakes and hoses can be stored together in empty trash cans. Stack extra cans inside each other.
- Tables that have removable legs should be broken down to save space.
- Sofas and love seats can be stored on end to save floor space. Place boards under parts in contact with the floor. Wrap cushions in plastic and place on top of sofas.
- Avoid placing sharp or heavy objects on top of upholstered furniture
- Cover stuffed furniture with cardboard or blankets to protect against dust.
- 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.
- Wipe any items made of metal; bikes, metal tables, tools, etc, with machine oil or WD-40 to prevent rusting.
