Tip #1 Store the items you need most regularly at the front of the unit.
Tip #2 When storing in the unit, try to leave a space as a center aisle, which allows you to easily access all items.
Tip #3 Do not place boxes directly on the floor. Use pallets, to facilitate air flow around and under items.
Tip #4 If you're storing tables and other furniture, remove legs or knock down components. Also to save space, place the tables and sofas towards the walls of the storage unit.
Tip #5 Old pictures and paintings tend to curl over time. To keep them straight, lay them flat between two pieces of cardboard and secure with tape.
Tip #6 Do not store gasoline and/or oil from lawn mowers and other items. First drain and clean them to prevent accidents.
Tip #7 You control access to your unit; but the storage of firearms, illegal drugs or drug paraphernalia, live animals, perishables, liquids, explosives, flammable liquids and fuels or toxic materials, is prohibited.
Tip #8 Plastic canisters or dumpsters are recommended to store shovels, hoes, rakes and other items that have long handles.
Tip #9 Mattresses should be covered and stored flat on level surfaces.
Tip #10 Use protective covers on furniture and appliances and provide treatment to wood surfaces before storing.
Tip #11 In order to prevent rust wipe all metal surfaces with a rag containing a few drops of machine oil or water displacement substances like WD40 or Pledge.
Tip #12 Store blankets, curtains and clothing on a hanger or in a wardrobe box.
Tip #13 Always use high quality locks on your storage unit. Such locks are available for sale at various stores.
Tip #14 Moisture sensitive items should always be stored on pallets, to ensure air circulation underneath and on the sides.
Tip #15 Whenever possible, place dressers and tables up on top to save space.
Packing Tips
Tip #1 Adequate packing promotes the preservation and the easy access to your belongings. Acquire corrugated cartons , packing paper , bubble wrap , sealing tape and marking pens, along with furniture covers.
Tip #2 Seal the boxes securely with packing tape . This will prevent dust or damage during storage or transport.
Tip #3 Wrap the legs with protective bubble wrap , furniture covers or pads to prevent scratches. Leave covers on upholstered chairs and place covers to plastic chairs . Identify moving parts or mark them to facilitate reassembly, save them together with ribbon or tie downs. Place plastic or blankets on mattresses to keep them clean during storage.
Tip #4 Label each box , its contents and fragility. Attach labels to the boxes on all sides for easy identification. Keep a list of its contents (as well as pictures and descriptions) at your home or office for reference. Mark clearly all boxes containing fragile items and make sure they are placed on top of heavier boxes with less delicate objects.
Tip #5 Use the valuable space inside drawers furniture and larger appliances. Empty spaces in kitchens, refrigerators and drawers are perfect for storing small items such as towels, linens and small, fragile items or other objects . Secure items in these places, filling the gaps with towels or packing paper.
Tip #6 Use the same box sizes where possible for easier stacking. Fill the boxes with pressure, but be careful not to over or underpack (bulging boxes or half full boxes tend to collapse when stacked) . Use crumpled newspaper, bubble wrap, rags, towels, or blankets to fill in the gaps. Seal boxes with tape to provide added protection.
Tip #7 Pack heavy items such as books and tools in small boxes. For easier handling and also limit the weight of all cases, regardless of size, so that it is maintained in a range of 30 pounds or less, this will ensure proper and easy handling.
Tip #8 Make sure to keep the appliances clean and dry before storing. Make sure to set all moving parts and wrap each item or filling for protection. Seal with tape all appliance doors and keep them closed during transport, but remember it must be easy to be open during storage.
Tip #9 Pack the books flat to protect their structure. Seal boxes containing books with tape to prevent them from dust or damage and fill empty spaces with packing paper.
Tip #10 Use paper to pack dishes and glassware. Place a layer of packing paper across the inside of the boxes. Wrap each dish and glass separately and cushion with wadded paper. Seal all boxes with packing tape.
Tip #11 Hang clothes and draperies in boxes of cabinets. These special boxes save you hours of ironing so you may have these items ready for use.
Tip #12 Save your lamps and lampshades in individual boxes . Use crumpled paper or clean clothes for the filling.
Tip #13 Use pads for mirrors and paintings with unprinted paper. Avoid printed newspaper because the ink could be transferred to your artwork. Place them in special containers or boxes and make sure to label them.