Self Storage & Packing Tips

Wherever life takes you, we’ve got space! Follow our storage and packing tips to help ensure your belongings are safely stored and easily accessible when you need them.

Storage Unit Packing Tips

  1. Keep an Inventory of Your Items and Take Photos 
  2. Place Boxes on Pallets, Skids, or 2X4s 
  3. Store Electronics in the Rear of the Unit 
  4. Cover Your Property with Drop Cloths or Plastic Covers
  5. Always Lock Your Unit with a Cylinder or Disc Padlock 
  6. Avoid Storing Items that are not Protected by your Plan 
  7. Frequently Accessing Your Unit
    • If you are going to use some of the items on a regular basis, be sure to place them in the front of the unit to make access easier.
  8. Storing Clothes
    • You can opt to use wardrobe boxes to hang clothing, draperies, and other fabrics, allowing them to breathe while in storage.
  9. Keeping Your Storage Unit Organized
    • When placing your items into storage, draw a simple map of where everything is located. It doesn’t have to be incredibly detailed, but knowing where you keep your holiday decor and memory boxes will make them much easier to access when needed. Keep the map along with your lease so it’s handy when you need it!
  10. Label Your Items
    • Label everything you store in your unit and keep a written inventory along with your locator map. If you have a larger unit or a unit with multiple entrances, remember to label all sides so you can find what you need quickly.
  11. Storing Important Documents
    • If you are storing boxes of records or documents, consider using shelves to maximize your storage space. Take an extra step to protect your files by using a waterproof box or opting for a filing cabinet.
  12. Storing Tables
    • If possible, remove the legs when storing tables so that you can stand the tabletop vertically and conserve space.
  13. Furniture with Legs
    • Store sofas, couches, and tables that cannot have their legs removed on their ends. Place an old sheet or plastic on the floor underneath the furniture to further protect the fabric or material. However, this is not recommended for sofa beds!
  14. Furniture with Drawers
    • If storing a dresser or chest of drawers, use the drawers as additional storage space. Pack lightweight items inside to maximize the storage space and minimize the area you need. Remember to mark these drawers on your map so you don’t forget what’s in them.
  15. Storing Boxes
    • When placing your boxes into self storage, place the heavier boxes on the bottom and progressively lighter ones on top. Never stack higher than your own height.
  16. Storing Gas Powered Equipment
    • Remove or fold the handles on lawnmowers and other garden equipment. It is important to drain all gasoline from tools before storing them to prevent spills and accidents.