• Make an inventory list of all of the items you store. Keep a copy in your storage unit and one for your records. Update the list as you add or remove items. This will help you keep track of where things are and will also help in the unlikely event of an insurance claim.
  • Mark all boxes with their contents so you can easily identify and access items, if required. Be specific. When loading or stacking boxes make sure this information faces toward you so you can read it.
  • Pack each box completely and store heavier boxes on the bottom. Mark boxes that contain breakable items as fragile.
  • Stack boxes from floor to ceiling to maximize your space.
  • Store items that you are most likely to need at the front of the unit.
  • Store mirrors and pictures on end, wrapped in protective material.
  • Protect wooden furniture from scratches with moving pads, sheets or light blankets. This also protects these items from dust.
  • Remove table legs or take apart any awkward items to save on space. Bag and label any smaller parts or hardware that you remove and keep them in a labeled box so you can find them when you need them. Place them near the entrance of your self storage unit or Space Capsule so they are easy to find.
  • Do not take apart particle board items as they are not designed to be taken apart and reassembled.
  • Protect mattresses and box springs with bags designed for them.
  • Vacuum upholstered furniture, such as couches and armchairs, to remove food crumbs prior to storage. Use covers to protect them from dust and pests.
  • To prevent rust, wipe any metal items with a small amount of machine oil.
  • Place boxes with books and other items that may absorb moisture on skids or pallets rather than directly on a concrete floor.
  • Do not upend upholstered items on a concrete floor. Instead place them on a skid or pallet to prevent moisture absorption.
  • Drain and clean all appliances 24 hours before you move them. Make sure they are dry. Leave the doors slightly ajar to prevent mold and mildew.
  • Pack glass shelves and trays separately, wrapped and in boxes, for protection. Tape cords to the back of appliances to prevent accidents.
  • Leave air space around the perimeter to aid ventilation.
  • Insure your belongings.

  • Do not store items that are hazardous. These include items that are explosive, flammable, corrosive, environmentally harmful or that pose another risk to people or property. Do not store fireworks, ammunition, aerosols, gasoline, oil, propane, kerosene, charcoal or charcoal lighter, matches, alcohol, antifreeze, paint, paint thinners, household cleaners or disinfectants, solvents, chlorine, fertilizer, pesticides, poisons or batteries.
  • Remember to remove batteries from phones, clocks, power equipment or other electronics and from children’s toys. Batteries are stored energy and have the potential to explode.
  • If you are storing gas powered machinery such as lawn mowers, leaf blowers or chain saws, empty the gas tank before storing.
  • Do not store any food items or items that may attract pests or insects.
  • Do not store any valuable or irreplaceable items or items that may not be covered by your insurance policy. These include money, jewelry, valuable papers, artwork or family heirlooms. Use a safety deposit box for these items.
  • If you are storing items in a non-heated unit, do not store any liquids that may freeze and burst the container.

  • Create a pathway for easier access to your belongings.
  • For larger units, make a map of where you have placed different belongings.
  • Put items that you may need to access at the front of your unit or along the pathway.
  • When you are packing your storage unit, place large, heavy furniture or appliances that can support other items on the floor, then build upwards with lighter items and boxes on top. Make fragile items the very last layer.
  • When you leave, always make sure that your unit is locked.
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