Tips & Tricks

Storage Unit Tips and Tricks You Need to Know

We know that you’re anxious to start that remodeling project and get your self storage unit packed. Before you get started, we’ve gathered a few tips and tricks to streamline your storage experience.

It’s important to keep your items accessible, organized, and in the best possible condition. Check these curated self storage tips as a guide on how to store fragile items, create an inventory, and arrange containers for easy access. 

Before you lease your unit, measure and estimate the collective packing size of the items you plan to store. Whether you’re using a standard or a portable storage unit, measurements help you determine how much space you’ll need.

Pro Tip: It’s a good idea to use pallets to keep your items above the floor. 

Estimate the number of boxes you’ll need as well as packing material (packing paper, bubble wrap, foam shipping peanuts), tape, and markers. Even if you’re working on a remodeling project that doesn’t require transport, your belongings should be carefully packed to prevent damage.

Pro Tip: Use sturdy, new, or almost new, boxes and containers. Overused boxes won’t stack easily, and they may break open. Lightly used plastic containers can work – clean them thoroughly to be sure there are no unwanted visitors hiding in them!

Create an inventory list of the items you’re storing so that you know exactly what will be in your unit. You never know when you’ll need something right away.

Pro Tip: Keep a copy of your inventory in a safe place away from your storage unit.

Boxes should be strong enough to hold 25-30 pounds.  Place boxes that contain fragile or delicate items on top of boxes packed with heavier objects.
 
Anything that you use frequently should be placed at the front of your unit. Be sure to leave aisles for easy access.

Pro Tip: Label your containers on all four sides.

Hazardous and perishable items (paint, gasoline, propane, etc.) are prohibited in standard storage units. Drain fuel from lawnmowers, snowblowers, or any other equipment. You can find a full list of prohibited items on our FAQs.

Pro Tip: It is prohibited to store food or perishable items, including pet food, in your unit.

Large pictures and mirrors should be wrapped in cardboard, marked “FRAGILE” and stacked on end. China, crystal, porcelain, and any other breakable items should be carefully wrapped in packing paper and/or bubble wrap before packing in dish packs and boxes.

Pro Tip: Small fragile items can be stored in furniture drawers. Pack the drawers with bed and bath linens as an extra layer of protection for these treasures.

Store sofas and loveseats on end to save floor space, and cover everything with furniture covers or pads to prevent dust. If you store furniture that can be broken down, keep small parts in plastic bags and tape them to the item. Don’t place sharp or heavy objects on upholstered or leather furniture.

Pro Tip: Never cover or wrap wood items with plastic. It can leave a residue that causes permanent damage.

Washers, driers, and ovens make excellent packing spaces for blankets, towels, bedding, and table linens. 
To prevent accidental damage, place TVs and other electronics in the rear of your unit.

Pro Tip: Seasonal clothing can also be packed in large appliances.

If you store mattresses on their sides, prop them up so that they stand straight. This will prevent them from bending and becoming out of shape and lumpy.
If you are breaking down a bed frame, be sure to keep all small parts in a plastic bag and tape it to the frame.

Pro Tip: Clean your mattresses thoroughly before storing them.

Wipe metal items such as bikes, furniture, or tools with oil to prevent rust and corrosion.

ProTip: W-D 40 Specialist Corrosion Inhibitor works well.

If your standard storage is for the long-term, it’s a good idea to make a map of your stored boxes and items, place it on a clipboard, and hang it in a visible location near the front of your storage unit. If that doesn’t work for you, take a photo to store on your mobile phone. 

Pro Tip: You don’t have to get fancy. Any type of hand-drawn sketch will work. You’ll be happy to have this when you need to access an item quickly. 

We hope these tips relieve some of your stress.  Remember, call us with any questions. We can even suggest some great tips for decluttering your space. 
We’re always here for you and your self storage needs.