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Helpful Tips - Making the Most of Your
Storage Unit
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Make a
list of what you intend to store. This will help you get all
the things you will need, such as boxes and packing
materials. It will also serve as a reminder of what you have
stored.
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Plan your
storage space. Store frequently used items and seasonal
clothing in the front of the unit. Allow room for walkways.
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Use
pallets, 2 x 4s, or plywood to keep your items off the
floor.
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Use
freestanding shelves to help organize your unit.
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Use
uniform sized boxes for easy stacking. Stack lighter boxes
atop heavier boxes.
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Keep it
safe - don't pack too heavy or stack too high.
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Label the
boxes on all six sides and keep a list for easy reference.
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Make sure
that all appliances are clean and dry before storing them.
Leave appliance doors off or open to promote airflow and
prevent mildew.
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Use
valuable space inside large appliances to store small items,
linens or clothing. Store sofas on end to save floor space.
Wrap cushions; store on top. Stack chairs seat-to-seat.
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Store
mattresses on their sides - prop them up to keep them
straight.
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Use the
inside of drawers to store bubble-wrapped china, pictures or
smaller items.
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Use paper
pads in between stacked furniture items to avoid scratching.
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Protect
your items by covering them with moving pads, sheets or
light blankets. Wrap mirrors, paintings and framed pictures
in cardboard. Store on end, not flat.
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Store
clothing and draperies on hangers in wardrobe boxes to
retain their original shapes.
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Purchase
stored property insurance. If your belongings are worth
storing, they are worth insuring.
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Use a
good quality lock on your door. Check your unit regularly,
at least once a month.
Avoid Making These
Common Mistakes
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Don't use
plastic to cover your belongings - it retains moisture.
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Don't
pack your boxes too heavy to lift or carry. Limit books to
30 pounds/box.
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Don't use
printed newspaper for packing; the ink may smudge and get on
your items.
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Don't
forget to clean appliances before you store them.
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Prevent
any unwanted guests - don't store any food items.
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Don't
place heavy or sharp objects on top of upholstered
furniture.
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Never
store toxins or flammables such as paint, solvents, oil, or
gasoline, etc. Clean garden equipment before storing and
ensure that lawnmower fuel tanks are empty.
Please note: To protect
you and your possessions, you cannot store corrosive or
flammable liquids, explosives of any kind, bottled gas, kerosene
or other hazardous or illegal substances. If you need any help
or advice on storing specialized items, one of our Storage Team
members will be happy to assist you.
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