STORAGE TIPS
Smallest Space
Rent the smallest amount of space you will need, and pack the unit full.
Gather Materials
Start by gathering as many boxes as you think you will need as well as tape, markers, and packing material (e.g., foam shipping noodles, bubble wrap, packing paper or towels).
Uniform Sizes
If possible, try to use uniformly sized boxes for easy stacking.
Inventory
Make up an inventory list of your items and keep it in a safe place (at home or in a safe deposit box) away from the unit.
Prepare
In cold storage prepare your space by placing a protective cover on the floor under your goods.
Keep Dry
Place your storage items on 2x4 boards or on pallets to guard against dampness. Any concrete floor may become cold and damp.
Access
Plan your storage space. Place most frequently used items near the front of your unit to avoid having to search for them.
CAUTION
Do not store anything COMBUSTIBLE (e.g., paint thinner, gasoline, solvents, or paint).
Easier Access
Try to leave an aisle down the center of the storage unit for easier access. Leave a small space between the walls and boxes to allow for air circulation.
Stack & Shelving
Stack heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter boxes on top. You can bring portable or freestanding shelving to help organize your storage unit and help to make the most of the less-used vertical space. If you try to stack too many boxes on top of each other, the bottom ones will crush and crumble under the weight. Shelving allows you to stack boxes safely and take advantage of the height of your storage unit.
Strong Boxes
Be sure your boxes are strong enough to hold 25-30 pounds (although we suggest not putting too much in each box).
List Contents
List contents of boxes on all four sides; number the boxes and seal with tape.
Wrap It Up
Dishes and glasses should be wrapped in paper and packed in sturdy boxes. Stack them on top. Be careful if using printed newspaper as the ink may smudge and get on your items. Clothing and draperies should be stored in wardrobe boxes on hangers to retain their original shape.
Fragile
Pictures and mirrors should be wrapped in cardboard, marked “FRAGILE” and stacked on end.
Extra Space
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.
Appliances
Large appliances such as refrigerators and stoves should be thoroughly cleaned and the door(s) left slightly ajar. They also make excellent “packaging cases” for blankets, towels, tablecloths and clothes.
Electronics
Put TVs and other electronics in the rear of your unit. When you disassemble electronics, such as computers, stereos, things that have numerous cords, place small colour stickers on the cord and the same colour sticker where the cord goes. This will save you the hassle of trying to figure out what goes where when it comes time to reassemble your electronics.
Stored Together
Shovels, hoes, rakes, and hoses can be stored together in empty trash cans. Stack extra cans inside each other.
Disassemble Items
Disassemble items such as tables, bed frames, etc. This will save space. Wrap and label all pieces for an easier time when you have to reassemble them. Put all hardware in bags and mark the bags accordingly.
Sofas and Loveseats
If possible, store sofas and loveseats on end to save floor space. Wrap cushions in plastic and place on top of sofas.
Sharp or Heavy Objects
Avoid placing sharp or heavy objects on top of upholstered furniture.
Stuffed Furniture
Cover stuffed furniture with cardboard or blankets to protect against dust.
Mattresses
If you stand mattresses on their sides, prop them up so they stand straight. Otherwise, they tend to bend out of shape and become lumpy.
Metal Items
Wipe any items made of metal - bikes, metal tables, tools, etc. - with machine oil to prevent rusting. Drain and clean all debris from all equipment before you store them.
Insurance
If your belongings are worth storing they are worth insuring. Don’t assume that your homeowners or renters insurance will cover your belongings while in storage. If you are not covered we offer insurance.