Storage Tips

Here are some helpful suggestions to keep your valuables and keepsakes stored safely. For more suggestions and storage supplies, please see the on-site manager and your storage location.

• Plan your storage space. Place those items that you need to get to often in the front. Allow for walkways.
  
  

• Completely fill each box with your heaviest items on the bottom and lighter items on top. 
  
  

• Try to keep your boxes in uniform sizes. They are much easier to stack that way.
  
  

• Drain all gas and oil from engines in lawnmowers, tillers, etc.
  
  

• Label ALL boxes for easy identification.
  
  

• Leave a small space between the wall and your storage items to allow for ventilation.
  
  

• Pack your boxes and other items as close together as possible to avoid moisture accumulating between them.
  
  

• Use a HIGH QUALITY lock, preferably a "disc lock", for your unit. They are much harder to break or cut keeping your valuables as safe as possible.
  
  

• Make up an inventory of your stored items and keep it in a safe place at home or in a safe deposit box.
  
  

• Use uniform size boxes for easy stacking. BE SURE they're strong enough to hold 25-30 lbs. (It is best not to put too much in each box.)
  
  

• List contents of boxes on all four sides, number the boxes, seal with masking tape or glued paper tape.
  
  

• Stack lighter boxes on top of heavier boxes.
  
  

• Dishes and glasses should be wrapped in packing paper and placed in dish pack boxes. Stack those on top.
  
  

• Place your storage items on 2" x 4" boards or VisiQueen to guard against dampness. Any concrete floor may become cold and damp.
  
  

• CAUTION: It is against the law to store materials that are HAZARDOUS or COMBUSTIBLE such as gasoline, solvents, paint, etc. Drain our all remaining gasoline from lawn mowers, power tools, boats, snowmobiles, etc.
  
  

• Pictures and mirrors should be wrapped in mirror crates marked "FRAGILE" and stacked on end.
  
  

• Furniture with drawers can be utilized as storage places for knickknacks, china, silverware and small items. Wrap in tablecloths, towels or blankets to prevent breakage.
  
  

• Larger appliances make excellent "packing cases" for blankets, towels, tablecloths and clothes.
  
  

• 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 loveseats can be stored on end to save floor space. Always place a protective waterproof cover under the end on the floor. Cushions should be wrapped in plastic and placed on top.
  
  

• Cover stuffed furniture with dust cover to protect against dust.
  
  

• If you stand mattresses on end, be sure to "prop" them up to stand straight or they may bend out of shape and become lumpy.