Storage and Packing Tips

Here are some storage and packing tips that should help improve your mini storage experience.

Packing Tips

• Gather all supplies ahead of time: tape, packing materials, boxes, markers, etc.
• Respect your fragile items. Wrap them individually and pad the box with shredded paper, packing paper or bubble wrap.
• Pack small items carefully in boxes with packing material. Avoid using plastic bags (trash bags, etc.); mold and mildew can form due to lack of ventilation.
• Always pack heavier items on the bottom of the box with lighter items on top. Mark the box "This Side Up".
• Only pack boxes so you can lift them without straining, forty pounds (40) or less is a good rule to follow.
• Choose the right size box for the items you are packing. For light items (pillows, towels, lamp shades, etc.) use larger boxes and for heavier items (books, dishes, cd's, etc.) use smaller boxes.
• Seal all boxes securely with packing tape, with tops folded flat for easier stacking.
• Make a written inventory while you pack, labeling the contents on the outside of each box.
• Use a wardrobe box to hang items like clothing or curtains, your items will be crease free and the fabrics can breathe.
• Dissamble any furniture that you can and use small plastic bags to store parts like screws and bolts and then tape the bag to the item they belong to.
• Do not pack perishable food items.

Storage Tips

• Plan ahead. Keep items used frequently stored at the front of your storage unit where you can easily access them.
• Cover upholstered items like sofas and mattresses.
• Make use of space in refregerators and other appliances to store lighter items. Be sure to leave doors ajar for ventilation.
• Optimize your space by going UP. Stack to the ceiling, being sure to leave heavier items on the bottom. Stack chairs seat on seat and use towels or sheets between them for protection.
• When storing items like lawnmowers and weed trimmers that use gasoline, empty the gasoline before storing. This will prevent the items in your unit from having any unpleasant odors and reduce the risk of causing a fire.
• Store garden tools (shovels, rakes, hoes, etc.) in a trash can or other upright container.
• Be sure to leave a little space between the walls of the storage unit and your stored items. It will make it easier if you should need to retrieve something later and it allows for ventilation.
• Do not store perishable food items.