Self Storage Tips
Not sure what should go in the storage unit first? Get answers from dedicated self-storage pros with our handy set of storage tips.
How to Pack Different Items
From glassware to garden tools, here's how to protect the things you're putting into storage.
Bedding, Clothing, Curtains, Drapes & Linens
Fabric items like clothing, curtains and drapes are best stored on hangers. If hanging cartons aren't available, carefully fold and store them in dresser drawers or cedar chests along with bedding and linens.
Appliances
Refrigerators and freezers should be thoroughly dry and stored with the door slightly ajar. Some goods can be stored inside large appliances — make a note if you do. Boxes can be stacked on top of stoves, refrigerators and freezers. Make sure cooking equipment is clean and dry before packing.
Dishes & Glassware
Place a layer of packing inside the bottom and top of boxes containing glassware. Wrap all glass items individually: nest cups and bowls together and stand plates, saucers and platters on their edge. Place wrapped glasses near the top of cartons, fill open pockets with packing paper, and never place heavy items on top.
Furniture
Lay down a pallet, corrugated cardboard mat, or plastic sheet before placing furniture. Stand sofas and mattresses on end when possible. Disassemble beds and tables, wrap table legs in paper, and keep upholstery off the floor. Stack lightweight chairs seat-to-seat and finish with a light cotton dust cover.
Books & Documents
Pack books flat to protect the spines. Never place boxes directly on concrete floors — use pallets or skids to prevent moisture absorption. Fill empty pockets with packing, don't mix fragile items with books, and don't overload.
Holiday Decorations
Save the original cartons that housed delicate ornaments. Pad ornaments with packing paper or newsprint, and wrap strings of lights around a piece of cardboard before placing them in a lined carton.
Mirrors, Windows, Glass Sheeting & Screens
Store these items on their edges, not flat. We offer a selection of mirror and picture boxes available for purchase at our office.
Tools
Clean metal tools and wipe them with a rag containing a few drops of machine oil to prevent rust. Long-handled tools like rakes, shovels and hoes should be cleaned, lightly oiled and tied in bundles.
Bicycles & Other Metal Items
To avoid rust, wipe all metal surfaces with a rag containing a few drops of machine oil before storing.
How to Pack Your Storage Unit
These tricks are sure to improve how you pack your storage unit and keep your items safe.
Mark Your Calendar
Build a timeline leading up to moving day for cleaning out, labeling and organizing. Take a little time each week — one room or closet at a time — to check items off the list.
Don't Rush
Taking the time to carefully load your storage space ensures the best results for your belongings.
Leave Some Room
Leave air space around the perimeter to aid ventilation. Boxes of the same size make for easier, sturdier stacking.
Clear a Path
Leave a walkway to the rear of your space so you can easily access every item without unpacking the whole unit.
Think Outside the Box
Clear plastic storage containers are a great option — you get accessibility and visibility without the hassle of packing tape.
Use Quality Materials
Use high-quality packing boxes designed for the job, and seal them completely with packing tape.
Make a List & Plan Ahead
Create a list of labeled boxes for easy reference. Color-coding or numbering each box is a great trick to stay organized. Gather sturdy corrugated cartons, packing paper, bubble wrap, sealing tape, markers, and any furniture covers or shelving in advance.
Keep, Give, Trash
A month before you move is a great time to clean house. Plan a trip to a donation center with old clothes, toys or sporting equipment. If something is broken, expired, or no longer useful — lighten your load.
Pack Efficiently
Pack as much as you can in same-size boxes. Fill boxes tightly but never overpack or underpack — bulging cartons tip when stacked, half-full boxes collapse. Fill empty spaces with wadded newsprint, bubble wrap, rags or towels, and seal with tape.
Manage Weight
Pack heavy items like books and tools in small boxes. Limit the weight of any single carton to 30 lbs. or less for easier handling.
Label All Boxes
Clearly label boxes so you know their contents, and keep a master list (with pictures and descriptions) at home or the office. Mark all boxes containing fragile items.
Clean Stored Items
Clean and dry appliances before storing. Secure movable parts with paper, wedge and wrap a paper pad around each item. Tape doors shut during transport but remember to wedge them open in storage.
Placement
Store items you'll need most often at the front of the unit, and create a center aisle for access to everything else.
Use Drawers
Use bureau drawers to store small, fragile items. Secure them by filling empty spaces with towels or packing paper.
Cover Chairs
Protect chair legs by wrapping them in packing paper. Leave slipcovers on upholstered chairs and cover them with plastic chair covers.
Use Paper for Breakables
Use lots of paper for dishes and glassware. Wrap each dish and glass separately and cushion with crumpled paper. Plates are best stacked on edge. Pad mirrors and paintings and place them in mirror packs or large boxes — and mark them clearly.
Separate Lamps & Lampshades
Wrap large lamp bases in padding and wrap smaller lamps completely before boxing. Pack delicate lamp shades separately, and don't use newsprint (ink stains). Never stack heavy items on top of cartons with lamps or shades.
Don't Put Boxes on the Floor
Never place boxes directly on concrete floors — use pallets or skids to prevent moisture absorption.
Preparation Prior to Your Move
- Buy packing supplies
- Start packing boxes as soon as possible
- Send address change cards
- Get copies of school records
- Have clothing dry cleaned
- Check on items in repair shops
- Notify utilities and telephone companies
- Set a date for utility disconnection and hookup
- Return borrowed items and things you've lent out
Moving Day!
- Discard all flammables, such as paint and gasoline
- Finish packing — leave out items you need for moving day
- Empty and defrost refrigerator and freezer
- Have everything packed except bedding
- Pick up ice and beverages
- Strip beds; cover mattresses with mattress bags unless going in storage
- Turn water and lights off
- Lock windows and doors
Still have questions?
Our team is happy to walk you through what size unit you need and how to pack it. We'll even pick up your stuff for free — up to 75 miles.