STORAGE TIPS
MOVING
If you are moving your household from one location to another, you will want
to consider the following:
1. Take inventory and decide what you want to keep and what you want to give
away or sell. Donate items you no longer want or have a yard sale.
2. Select a storage site for any temporary or long-term storage requirements you might have. See our list of locations on this Web page.
3. Reserve a rental truck well in advance of your move (note - many of our locations have Free use of our rental trucks to make it easy and inexpensive to make your move - check sites for details) or select a moving company.
4. It's a good idea to make a file of all your important moving and storage documents and keep them out and accessible.
5. Start making travel arrangements (if needed), reserve your storage space, and start packing up your belongings that aren't often used.
6. File a ‘Change of Address’ form with the post office 30 days before your move.
7. Arrange to have your utilities stopped at the old address and started at the new address.
8. Pack a travel bag to make the transition from your
old address to your new one. Don't forget to pack your medications.
STORAGE
If you are storing some of your belongings but not moving to another location,
consider the following:
1. Consider purchasing shelving or boxes to store or pack your belongings (You can purchase these at any of our storage sites). By using commercial grade boxes, you will protect your belongings, make it easier to move in and out, and help you get the maximum efficiency from your storage space. This can sometimes result in allowing you to rent a smaller, less expensive space.
2. Purchase a quality lock from one of our sites. It can be your best insurance.
3. Put a vapor barrier on the floor so you can stand couches and other long items on end and get better use of your space. Concrete floors can sometimes wick up moisture from the ground.
4.Cover your fine furniture with a blanket or sheet to prevent dust accumulation and to protect them from moist air getting to the finish.
5. Think about what items you might need from the unit (and how often) and then pack accordingly.
6. Stand long items on end to make more efficient use of your space.
7. Purchase the most secure lock system you can buy to protect your goods.
8. Protect mattresses and furniture with pads and covers.
9. Wrap mirrors and pictures with paper pads, or use mirror boxes. Never store these items flat.
10. LABEL ALL BOXES ON SEVERAL SIDES FOR EASY LOCATING.
11. Disassemble tables and shelves and store on their sides. Wrap and mark all pieces for easier re-assembly.
12. Seal boxes completely with packing tape to keep out dust and pack snugly to prevent collapsing when stacked.
13. Leave a center aisle for easy access to all items.
14. Use shelving to maximize your storage space.
15. Store items you'll need most often at the front of your unit.
16. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors slightly ajar and
clean before storing. And don't forget to use the space inside for extra storage.
PACKING
Tips on Packing
1. Consider using commercial grade boxes to make it easier
to move in and out, help keep your things safe, and get the most efficient
use
from your
storage
space.
2. Paper and sensitive items should be wrapped in plastic to prevent exposure to moisture from the air. You might consider a heated unit for the same reason.
3. Be careful what you store. Storing flammables and hazardous chemicals can be a threat to you, other tenants, and the entire facility.
4. Never vacate a unit without notifying the manager, and never leave your lock on the unit after you have vacated. We assume you're still using the unit until we hear otherwise and your lock is removed.
5. Pack books and other heavy objects in smaller boxes for easier lifting.
6. If you need to store clothes, use wardrobe boxes so you can hang your garments.
7. Try to use the same size boxes for easy stacking.
8. Fill boxes completely, stuffing open areas with plain newsprint to prevent collapsing when stacked.