Storage Tips

  1. Gather Packing 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).

  2. Use Uniformly Sized Boxes

    If possible, try to use uniformly sized boxes for easy stacking.

  3. Make an Inventory List

    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.

  4. Prepare Your Space; Keep Items Dry

    Prepare your space by placing a protective cover on the floor under your goods. Place your storage items on 2x4 boards or on pallets to guard against dampness. Any concrete floor may become cold and damp.

  5. Plan Access to Items & Allow for Air Circulation

    Plan your storage space. Place items that you may need to access often in the front of the unit. 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.

  6. CAUTION: Items You Cannot Store

    Do not store anything combustible (e.g., paint thinner, gasoline, solvents, or paint), hazardous, toxic or illegal. Also, no food or perishable items can be stored in our spaces. Examples of items that cannot be stored: Ammunitions, gasoline, paint thinner, propane, food, produce, plants, fireworks, etc. If in doubt of what can be stored in spaces, please ask the property manager.

  7. Use Strong Boxes

    Be sure your boxes are strong enough to hold 25-30 pounds (although we suggest not putting too much in each box).

  8. Stack Heavier Boxes on the Bottom

    Stack heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter boxes on top.

  9. List Contents on Boxes

    List contents of boxes on all four sides; number the boxes and seal with tape.

  10. Wrap Dishes & Glasses

    Dishes and glasses should be wrapped in paper and packed in sturdy boxes. Stack them on top.

  1. Wrap and Mark Fragile Items

    Fragile pictures and mirrors should be wrapped in cardboard, marked “FRAGILE” and stacked on end.

  2. Utilize 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. Larger appliances make excellent "packaging cases" for blankets, towels, tablecloths and clothes.

  3. Put Electronics in the Back

    Put TVs and other electronics in the rear of your unit.

  4. Store Like Items Together

    Shovels, hoes, rakes, and hoses can be stored together in empty trash cans. Stack extra cans inside each other.

  5. Remove Removable Legs

    Tables that have removable legs should be broken down to save space.

  6. Wrap Sofa and Loveseat Cushions

    Sofas and loveseats can be stored on end to save floor space. Wrap cushions in plastic and place on top of sofas.

  7. Take Care Storing Sharp or Heavy Objects

    Avoid placing sharp or heavy objects on top of upholstered furniture.

  8. Covered Stuffed Furniture

    Cover stuffed furniture with cardboard or blankets to protect against dust.

  9. Prop Up 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.

  10. Wipe Down Metal Items

    Wipe any items made of metal - bikes, metal tables, tools, etc. - with machine oil to prevent rusting.