• Visit the storage facility you select and make a list of the items you are going to be storing. This will help determine what size unit you need.
• Be sure the storage facility offers all that you need. A few things to consider may be location, 24 hour access, security features, climate control, whether you need mobile storage, etc.
• Consider leasing a Temperature Controlled unit if you are planning on storing items sensitive to temperature such as candles, furniture, CDs, photos, etc
• Use furniture drawers for delicate items and specially wrap and label them as "FRAGILE". Bubble wrap and packing paper are excellent for these purposes.
• When packing toys or smaller objects, remember to fill boxes completely, stuffing open areas with plain newspaper to prevent collapsing when stacked.
• Be careful not to store anything combustible, (such as gasoline), hazardous (such as paint and chemicals), or perishable, (such as food that is not permanently sealed).
• When storing lawn and garden equipment, drain any fluids prior to storage to avoid corrosive damage. Use trash cans to store shovels, hoes and rakes to keep them from damaging other stored goods and your unit.
• When storing delicate heirlooms, use specially constructed boxes, such as wardrobe boxes, and consider renting a Climate Controlled Unit. Remember to label these boxes "FRAGILE".
• Mattresses should be covered, elevated and stored on level surfaces.
• Larger appliances, such as stoves or refrigerators, provide additional space for storing towels, blankets, etc.
• Break down items such as table legs, and store tabletops and sofas on end, to save space.
• Use protective covers and treat wood surfaces before storing.
• When storing business files and inventory, label all boxes and construct aisles so files are easily seen and accessible. Consider a climate control unit for record storage.
• Purchase a secure lock! One of the most highly recommended locks is a disk lock which can be purchased at most self storage facilities.
• Look into insurance for the items you will be storing. Access Self Storage does not offer any insurance however there are specialized companies who offer self-storage insurance. Sometimes your homeowners or renters insurance will cover items kept in storage, but you need to verify.
• Make an inventory of the items you are storing and keep it in a safe, easy-to-find place. For highly valuable items, it is recommended that you take photos as well.
• Stack your things in similar sized boxes as they will be easier to stack.
• Stack heavier items on the bottom - But be sure not to over pack boxes so they get too heavy and dangerous.
• Avoid stacking things directly against the wall to leave room for some air flow in the unit.
• Use pallets or blankets to keep items off the floor of the unit.
• Make a plan on how to organize your unit. This will save you time in the long run. You can store couches on end, stack chairs seat to seat, and use larger items to store blankets, clothes, and smaller knickknacks.
• Leave a walkway down the center of your unit to make accessing all items easier.
• You may need to purchase shelving units to better utilize your storage space. This could even make your space needs smaller and save you money!
• Label all boxes on all sides. Again, this will save you time in the long run.
• Pack items that you will be frequently accessing towards the front - common sense, we know.
• Take apart large items, such as bed frames, tables, etc. This will save space and prevent them from breaking. Be sure to keep all parts together. Keep screws and smaller items handy by taping them to the larger item they belong to.
• If storing appliances be sure to clean them out first! Leave the door slightly open on refrigerators and microwaves to prevent mildew.
• Rub a small amount of oil on metal tools, bikes, etc. This will prevent rust - but be sure to separate these to not get oil on other things!
• Store mirrors and paintings on end, do not lay them flat. Wrap and indicate they are fragile.
• Lay blankets or cloth over and between furniture to prevent scratching.
