- Inspect the storage area to be sure it's of adequate size.
- Prepare the unit by placing plastic on the floor under your belongings.
- Predetermine and purchase the packing accessories (i.e. bubble wrap, tape, drop cloths, furniture and mattress covers, assorted sizes of boxes) you're going to need.
- Wash or dry clean clothes, blankets, sheet sets, etc. prior to packing.
- If storing items made of wool use cedar chips or mothballs to prevent damage from moths.
- Pack clothes in wardrobe boxes so garments can be hung.
- Wax wood furniture before storing. Use sheets or cloths to cover the furniture.
- Tape each fragile item as you wrap it. This will help prevent mistaking the item for the excess paper you use to fill the box.
- Pack books flat. Do not stand them up or pack on spines as they can be damaged.
- Books are heavy. Don't pack too many in one box.
- Protect fragile items with packing like bubble wrap. Place boxes with fragile item contents near the top of the storage space.
- It is illegal to store materials that are hazardous or combustible such as gasoline, cleaning fluids, paint, hay, etc. So be sure to drain gasoline, oil and other fluids from lawn mowers and other small engines.
- Do not store food items as they could attract rodents and insects.
- Pictures and mirrors should be wrapped in cardboard and clearly marked "FRAGILE". Stand them straight up. Never lay them flat.
- Keep photographs flat by placing them between two pieces of cardboard taped together. Then place them flat in boxes.
- Don't over fill boxes. Overly full boxes tear and topple when stacked.
- If boxes aren't completely fill stuff open areas with plain paper to prevent their collapsing when stacked.
- Be sure appliances are clean and dry.
- Seal boxes completely with packing tape. This prevents dust accumulation inside.
- Label all boxes with numbers written clearly and on 4 sides. Have a master list of the contents of each numbered box. Keep the list separate from your storage space.
- Pack the storage unit leaving air spaces around the perimeter to aid in ventilation.
- Keep refrigerator doors slightly ajar to prevent mold growth. Use the space inside appliances and drawers for additional storage.
- When disassembling electronics (computers, stereos, etc.) place small colored stickers on the cable then place the same color sticker where the cable connects to the item. When possible use the electronic item's original packing.
- Do not store items in sealed plastic bags. Humidity can damage the stored items.
- Use same sized boxes for stacking.
- Remove legs and disassemble tables, shelves, beds, and other furniture to conserve storage space.Use shelving to take full advantage of the storage space.
- Store couches (except sofa beds) on end. When packing your storage room, leave a center aisle for access to all items.
- Use shelving, when possible, for storage of items.
- Store items you'll need most often at the front of the storage area.
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