Do:
- Use pallets, 2’x4’s, plywood, and anything that will keep your items off the floor of your unit. We suggest adding a tarp on top of this as well
- Utilize all the space in your unit. Make a plan as to how you are going to arrange your belongings. A good plan will save you the time of having to arrange and rearrange your unit.
- Place a couple bars of Irish Spring soap in your unit. It is great for keeping pests away as they do not like the smell.
- 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 organize your unit. Do not attach shelves, hooks, or any item into the wall!
- Label boxes on all sides and keep a list for easy reference. This step 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 place heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter ones on top of the heavier ones. This will prevent boxes from being crushed.
- Be sure to store frequently used items at the front of the unit so that you don’t have to search long to find them.
- To protect your property, cover items with moving pads, sheets, or light blankets.
- Check your unit once a month.
- Disassemble items such as tables, bed frames, etc. to save space. Wrap and label all to make reassembling easier. Put all hardware in bags and label accordingly.
- When you disassemble electronics, such as computers, stereos, and other items with 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.
- 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 rather than 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. 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 insurance. If your belongings are worth storing, they are worth insuring.
- Plastic containers are great for storing your items. They have tight fitting lids and they stack easily. Keep your more valuable belongings in the rear of the unit so that others cannot see them when you are visiting your rental.
- Keep out-of-season clothes accessible. You may have your belongings in storage longer than anticipated.
- Be aware of your surroundings when you are visiting your unit. If you see a potential problem or anything suspicious, alert the manager.
Don’t:
- Don’t store any food items.
- Don’t pack your boxes so that they are too heavy to move, especially when you are packing books.
- Don’t assume that your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance will cover your belongings while in storage. Check to make sure first.
- Don’t give out your password, gate code, or any information to anyone that is not listed as having access to your unit.
- Don’t use printed newspaper for wrapping. The ink may smudge and get on your belongings, permanently staining them.
- Don’t forget to clean appliances and furniture before you store them.
- Don’t store any toxins or flammables such as paint, oil, or gasoline.
