Plan your storage area. Put items that you may need to access in the front. Allow for a walkway to get to the back of the unit.
Make up an inventory of your stored items and keep it in a safe place at home or in a safe deposit box.
Place your storage items on 2 X 4 boards or pallets to guard against dampness. Any concrete floor may become cold and damp.
CAUTION: Do not store anything combustible (paint thinner, gasoline, solvents, paints, etc.)
Cover stuffed furniture with cardboard or blankets to protect against dust.
Use uniform size boxes for easy stacking. Be sure the boxes are sturdy enough to hold 25 to 30 lbs. It is best not to put too much in each box.
List contents of boxes on all four sides, number the boxes and seal them with tape.
Stack lighter boxes on top of heavier boxes.
Dishes and glasses should be wrapped in paper and packed in sturdy boxes. Stack them on top.
Pictures and mirrors should be wrapped in cardboard, marked "Fragile" and stacked on end.
Furniture with drawers can be utilized as storage places for pictures, nick-knacks, china, silverware, and small items. Wrap them in tablescloths, towels or blankets to prevent breakage.
Larger appliances can also be used to store blankets, towels, tablecloths and clothing.
Shovels, hoes, rakes and hoses can be stored together in empty trash cans. Stack extra cans inside one another.
Tables with removable legs should be "broken down" to save space.
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 should be wrapped in plastic and placed on top.
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 amount of space you need and pack the space full if you know you won't be needing to get into it. (ie. knowing you are storing for one/two months while living on your bare necessities between homes).
Prepare your space by placing a protective cover on the floor under your goods.
Do not place heavy or sharp objects on top of upholstered furniture.
Use a good quality lock on your door. Cheap locks rust and do not provide good security. We recommend a round "disk type" padlock.
