Packing & Storage Tips
Do:
-
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 pallets, 2 x
4's, plywood, anything that will keep your items off the floor
of the unit.
-
Use freestanding
shelves to help organize your unit.
-
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.
-
Purchase the
insurance. If your belongings are worth storing, they are worth
insuring.
-
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.
Don't:
-
Do not store any
food items. This will prevent any unwanted guests.
-
Do not use
plastic to cover your belongings. It retains moisture.
-
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. Purchase the insurance. Your
belongings are not covered by the property owners insurance.
-
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.
How Much
Storage Space Do You Need? (Not All SMS Unit Sizes Included,
Examples Only)
6' x 13'
78 sq. ft. |
Large walk-in closet
Small bedroom |
Standard
furnishings of one bedroom apartment without appliances, or
about 150 file boxes |
7' x 13'
91
sq. ft. |
15'
moving truck
Average size bedroom |
Furnishings
of one bedroom apartment with refrigerator and washer/dryer,
patio furniture and many boxes OR two office suites
OR about 200 file boxes |
12' x 13'
156
sq. ft. |
20'
moving truck
Large bedroom |
Furnishings
of two bedroom apartment or small house with appliances,
patio furniture and many boxes OR a vehicle or small
boat OR it is big enough to fit carpet rolls and
building materials |
10' x 20'
200
sq. ft. |
24'
moving truck
Small one car garage |
Furnishings
of two bedroom house with appliances, patio furniture and
many boxes OR a vehicle or small boat OR
construction equipment |
10' x 24'
240
sq. ft. |
26'
moving truck
Large one car garage |
Furnishings
of three bedroom house with appliances, patio furniture and
many boxes, garage extras and miscellaneous OR a
vehicle or boat |
12' x 24'
288
sq. ft
11' x 28'
308
sq. ft |
Extra long
one car garage |
Furnishings
of four or five bedroom house with appliances, patio
furniture and many boxes, garage extras and miscellaneous
OR a vehicle or boat. |
|