Packing and Storage Tips

Packing Tips
  1. Get ready for the move in advance. Gather all the materials and supplies you need before you start packing.
    Make sure you have enough boxes, tape, packing materials, markers, furniture covers Etc..

  2. Label every box on multiple sides. Mark every box with its contents, and keep a written list of boxes/contents as you pack.

  3. Use boxes sized appropriately. Use large boxes for light items such as linens and pillows and smaller boxes for heavier items such as books and dishes.

  4. Carefully pack small things into boxes with protective packing materials. Don’t use garbage bags as you risk damage from being bumped during the move and mildew from limited ventilation.

  5. If you combine different weights of items in one box; put heavier items on the bottom and lighter items on top and mark the box “this side up”.

  6. Remember your “Back” and “Don't overload”. Packed boxes should only weigh as much as you can lift without
    straining.

  7. Make sure all your packed boxes are securely sealed with packing tape. If you are packing a large number of boxes consider purchasing a “Tape Gun” when you get rolls of packing tape to make the job easier.

  8. If you will be storing drapes or delicate fabrics that need to breathe and be kept wrinkle-free use a wardrobe box that will allow you to hang them up.

  9. Disassemble items that can be broken down such as bed frames. Tie the parts together with tape or rope and use small plastic bags to store the screws and bolts. Tape the bags with to the frame that they belong to for when the items need to be put back together.

  10. Prevent damage to items easily broken like dishes and glassware. Wrap dishes and glassware individually in newspaper or bubble wrap, and then pad the box with packing paper/bubble wrap as you place the items in the box.
   

Storage Tips
  1. Have a long term Plan and keep your frequently used items at the front of your unit where you can get at them quickly and easily.

  2. Make a simple drawing that shows where items are placed as you move into your storage space. Take a little time when you first move in and you won’t have to unpack every thing just to find that “One” item you need.

  3. Protect your valuables and furniture by covering them up.

  4. Make sure to maximize your storage area by stacking up to the ceiling. As you fill your storage space place heaviest items on the bottom and stack upwards with the lightest items on top. Always keep safety in mind and use a stool to stack and reach items stored above your head.

  5. Use your space efficiently. Break down any items that have removable parts and stack items with towels or blankets between them. Stack extra buckets, garbage cans planters etc., inside one another. Garden tools like Rakes, shovels, hoes, and hoses can be stored together in empty garbage can.

  6. Use appliances like refrigerators, freezers or stoves to store things like books, CDs or linens. Make sure to block the door of any appliances open so air can circulate inside them.

  7. Allow for ventilation inside your storage space and leave a little space between the walls of your unit and your stored items.

  8. Drain the tank of any gas-powered item you're storing before you put it in your unit. Not only is it safer, but it will prevent your other items from smelling like gas.