- Keep important papers, valuables and tools to disassemble and reassemble furniture with you.
- Put frequently accessed items in the front and allow for space to walk between rows as well as air circulation. Otherwise, pack your items close together to maximize the space, add stability and avoid moisture build up.
- Try to put heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter ones on top.
- Using uniform box sizes will make it easier to stack.
- Make an inventory log of everything in storage so you can find it when you need it. Room, box #, contents and location. Keep the list in a safe place other than the storage unit.
- Put serial numbers or other identifying numbers on the inventory list for your electronics, antiques and other valuable items.
- Indicate replacement value on the inventory list. This will be helpful for insurance purposes as well as unforeseen damage or theft.
- You may want to photograph some of the items before they are stored. They could come in handy in case of damage or theft.
- Assign room/box # to each box. i.e. K1, K2, LR1 = Kitchen box 1 & 2 and Living Room box 1.
- Label each box on all 4 sides so no matter how they are stacked, you can tell which box it is and what is in it.
- Draw a simple map of the storage space that shows where items are stored.
- Pack each room separately.
- Use colored markers or sticky dots to distinguish between rooms and different members of the family.
- Use towels, stuffed animals, blankets, clothing, linens, newspaper or bubble wrap to wrap and pack items.
- Pack as much as you can in each box to avoid damage caused by collapse from the weight on the boxes on top of it.
- Pack heavy tools and books in smaller boxes so they are not quite so heavy and easier to manage.
- Use packing tape to reinforce the box bottoms.
- Use pallets, skids or 2x4's to stack your boxes on so avoid possible moisture absorption.
- Do not use moth balls, which will stain fabric.
- Think creatively when using your space. Use drawers to store fragile items or items that must remain flat.
- Store books flat, not on end, to protect the sides and spines. Empty drawers are a good place to store books.
- Don't used plastic to cover your storage items. It retains moisture and could cause mildew and warping.
- Check your storage unit periodically to make sure nothing has happened. It's also a good idea to leave the door open and air it out occasionally.
- Keep an emergency kit in your storage unit. Not only may it come in handy for on the spot emergencies, but if your home is not accessible in an emergency, it will be a good resource.
