Utilize all the space in your unit. Make a plan as to how you are going to arrange your items. A good plan will save you the time of having to rearrange your unit. Leave an aisle in the center of your unit so that you have a walk way to the back of the unit.
Use freestanding shelves to help organize your unit.
Use pallets, 2 x 4’s, plywood, any thing that will keep your items off the floor of the unit to allow for improved ventilation. Free pallets available (first-come, first-serve).
Label the boxes on all six sides and keep a list for easy reference. This will save you time if you have to look for something in particular. When packing boxes fill them without making them too heavy to lift. Always put the heavier boxes on the bottom and the lighter ones on top of the heavier ones. This will prevent boxes from being crushed. Keep boxes off the floor.
Be sure to store frequently used items at the front of the unit to avoid having to search for them.
To protect your items cover them with moving pads, sheets, or light blankets.
Be sure to check your unit once a month.
Disassemble items such as tables, bed frames, etc. This will save space. Wrap and label all pieces for an easier time when you have to reassemble them. Put all hardware in bags and mark the bags accordingly.
When you disassemble electronics, such as computers, stereos, things that have numerous cords, place small colored stickers on the cord and the same color sticker where the cord goes. This will save you the hassle of trying to figure out what goes where when it comes time to reassemble your electronics. If possible, use the original boxes to store your electronics and other items.
Make sure that all appliances are clean and dry before storing them. Leave appliances slightly ajar to prevent mildew.
If it is possible store couches on end. Stack chairs seat to seat. Use the inside of appliances and drawers to store smaller items. When stacking furniture use paper pads in between the items to avoid scratching.
Store mattresses and box springs on long edges. Wrap for protection and elevate off the floor. Use two to three 2 x 4’s cut to 1 foot long.
Store mirrors and paintings on end, not flat. Pack books flat to protect their spines.
To prevent rusting rub a small amount of machine oil on metal tools, bicycles, and equipment. Drain and clean all debris from all equipment before you store them.
When wrapping collectibles or anything breakable, tape it after you wrap it. This should avoid mistaking them for excess paper to fill the box. Use bubble wrap or unprinted paper to wrap breakables. Group similar items together and mark the boxes accordingly.
Clothing and draperies should be stored in wardrobe boxes, on hangers, to retain their original shapes.
If your belongings are worth storing, they are worth insuring. Check with your insurance provider to ensure coverage.
Rubbermaid containers are great to store your items. They have tight fitting lids and stack easily. Keep the more valuable items in the rear of the unit. This will prevent others from seeing them when you are in your unit.
Keep out of season clothes accessible, you may have your belongings in storage longer than anticipated.
Be aware of your surroundings when you are in your unit. If you see a potential problem or anything suspicious alert the manager.
Use trash cans to store shovels, hoes and rakes. Extra cans can be stacked inside one another.
Always use high quality locks on your unit. Stow It Self Storage sells quality locks on-site: see the kiosk or an associate for details.
REMEMBER: moving is an excellent time to get rid of items you no longer use.
For better ventilation, leave a couple of inches between your boxed items and the unit walls.
Make sure all batteries have been removed from electronics BEFORE storing them.
Don't
Do not use plastic to cover your belongings. It retains moisture.
Do not store any food items. This will prevent any unwanted guests.
Do not pack your boxes so that they are too heavy to carry them. Especially when you are packing books.
Do not assume that your homeowners or renters insurance will cover your belongings while in storage.
Do not give out your password, gate code or any information to any one that is not listed as having access.
Do not use printed newspaper for wrapping. The ink may smudge and get on your items.
Do not forget to clean appliances before you store them.
Do not store any toxins or flammables such as paint, oil, or gasoline.
Store Combustible and Hazardous Materials. These types of materials can cause major damage to the facility and your belongings if they become unstable or catch fire. They can also cause serious injury to the customers and facility personnel. The items include fuel, fireworks, alcohol, aerosols, etc. People often overlook the obvious items such as fuel tanks on lawnmowers, snow blowers, and other maintenance equipment. Also hazardous and toxic or chemical materials such as cleaners, paints and paint thinner.
Store Animals or Plants. It is usually against regulations to store any living thing, in storage, as they will attract insects and pests. Storage of pets in these types of facilities is prohibited and violators could be charged with animal cruelty. Animal products are also not allowed in storage, as they will attract pests.
Store Perishable Food. When packing the contents of a home, especially the kitchen, people sometimes pack food in boxes along with other items. Canned food shouldn’t be a problem but there are restrictions on perishable foods, as they will attract vermin.
Store Firearms and Explosives. Regulations prohibit it.
Store Odorous Items. We prohibit the storage of anything causing significant odour on site.
