Tips for Storing
What to look for in a facility, and how to pack a unit so everything comes out the way it went in.
Points to consider when choosing a self-storage facility
- Adequate security measures and accessibility
- Unit sizes offered—possibilities for increasing or decreasing space needed
- Amount of privacy offered (especially if you are storing valuable items)
- Adequate climate control, particularly for storage of upholstered items, archive documents or business goods
- Cleanliness and maintenance of the facility
- Pest control measures taken
- Possible surprises in the fine print of the contract
- Adequate access for the removal vehicle you plan to use, if you are storing a large amount
Self-storage facility tips
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Make an inventory
In order to be able to find things quickly and easily at a later date, make an inventory of what you pack and where you put it as you go along. Make an estimate of the replacement value of items you pack for accurate insurance information and in case of damage in the storage facility.
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Use sturdy, uniform boxes
Invest in sturdy boxes, and box everything you can to keep your belongings clean and safe. Using boxes of uniform size will save space in the unit and make it easier to stack them securely. Fill boxes to capacity whenever possible, packing heavier items on the bottom and lighter ones on top, and filling empty spaces with packing material to prevent breakage. Label all boxes clearly on more than one side, marking “Fragile” any boxes that contain breakable items. Be sure to seal all boxes with tape before storing them; this will help to keep dust out of the contents and make the boxes stronger.
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Avoid sealed plastic bags
Don’t pack items in sealed plastic bags, as humidity can cause mildew. Pack books flat to protect their spines.
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Prepare large appliances
Large appliances must be clean and dry before storage; defrost refrigerators and freezers thoroughly, and drain water from washing machines. Wipe insides of appliances with baking soda before storage. Store refrigerators and freezers with doors slightly ajar to prevent condensation, mold or bad odors from forming.
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Wrap fragile items separately
Wrap all fragile or breakable items separately in paper or bubble wrap, then pack tightly into strong boxes, filling all spaces with filler such as paper or Styrofoam peanuts. When stacking boxes in the storage facility, stack these boxes on top of the heavier ones.
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Store clothing hung
Clothing is best stored in wardrobe or clothes boxes, where items can be hung up and will keep their shape. Storing clothing in bin liners invites the possibility of moisture being trapped inside and ruining your clothes.
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Mirrors and pictures on end
Mirrors and pictures should always be stored on end, never flat, and should be wrapped with a protective covering such as bubble wrap and marked as “Fragile.” Lamp bases and shades should be separated and wrapped for protection.
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Cover upholstered furniture
Upholstered furniture such as sofas or mattresses should be covered with bags, sheeting or covers. Stand sofas and mattresses on end to save space whenever possible, and try not to stack too much on top of these soft items. If you stack several pieces of furniture on top of each other, protect them from scratching or damage by placing a dust sheet or cover between them.
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Dismantle large furniture
To save space, dismantle large pieces of furniture such as beds or tables. Wrap and cover furniture sections and keep them together, clearly marked. Put screws and bolts in plastic bags, also marked, and tape them to the relevant piece of furniture for easy retrieval and re-assembly. Store large pieces of furniture vertically to save space in the facility. To save even more space, store small boxes in anything that’s hollow, such as furniture drawers, wardrobes, and kitchen appliances like stoves and refrigerators.
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Stack chairs seat to seat
Stack chairs seat to seat to save space, wrapping the legs for extra protection. Spray any wood furniture with a good furniture spray before storage.
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Box electrical equipment
Electrical equipment such as TVs, computers, and stereos should be packed in their original boxes if possible, or at least in boxes that are about the right size and have any gaps filled in with paper or other packing material.
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Empty all fuel tanks
Any items with fuel tanks, such as cars and lawn mowers, must have their fuel tanks emptied before storage. Fuel CANNOT be stored in a self-storage facility.
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Oil tools and metal items
Tools and metal items should be rubbed down with oil before storage to prevent rust. Tools can be tied into bundles for storage. Never store brooms or brushes on their bristles, as this will damage them. Remove bags before storing vacuum cleaners.
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Photographs and documents
Photographs or archive documents are not recommended for self-storage, as they are easily damaged due to temperature changes unless the facility is climate-controlled. If you choose to store loose photographs, they should be stored flat between pieces of cardboard that are taped together to prevent curling.