Packing a Storage Unit

• Pack in such a way that you leave yourself access to items you might need from time to time. Accessing boxes can be made even easier by labeling them.
• Use pallets / skids if possible to keep contents off the floor.
• Store items you may need to access at the front of the unit.
• Worn boxes can collapse and lead to damage. Use similar size boxes so they pack easy and make better use of space. Try to fill boxes to maintain sturdiness and stack lighter boxes on top. Pack heavy things in small boxes and lighter things in large boxes.
• Rubbermaid bins make excellent moisture resistant storage containers. They will also resist buckling better than standard boxes.
• Anything important should be wrapped or boxed in storage to protect from dust and dirt.
• Never pack material or upholstered items in sealed bags or bins, especially during spring and summer. Humidity present during these seasons can cause condensation leading to must and mildew. If you do wrap beds and sofas, they should be stored on end if possible with the top end left unsealed. Upholstered items and beds should be kept of the ground.
• Old bed sheets, towels and comforters make excellent padding to protect furniture.
• To save space and possibly money, disassemble any large furniture such as beds and tables. It is a good idea to keep all screws, bolts and the like in one accessible container or bag.

Books and Valuable Papers

• Use file boxes. They are the best containers for your important documents.
• Pack books flat and fill any empty space to minimize movement.
• Avoid overfilling cartons. Books are heavy.
• Keep pallets free of moisture by placing plastic sheeting on top of them.

Breakables

• Wrap plates, saucers and bowls individually before placing it in a china carton.
• Use a china carton divider kit for increased security.
• Fill paper into bottom, top and empty spaces in the carton to minimize movement.

Large Appliances and Equipment

• When storing appliances, be sure they are defrosted and empty of water as moisture and humidity will damage your valuables. Refrigerator and freezer doors should be propped open slightly to prevent odour build-up. An opened box of baking soda can be placed inside for added odour prevention.
• Valuable storage space inside appliances can be used for small items.

THINGS YOU SHOULD NEVER PLACE IN STORAGE

• Explosive or flammable items like fuel, paint or aerosols.
• Food or drink. These can attract vermin into even the cleanest facility.
• Anything living. Plants and animals will not survive in storage.