Helpful Storage Tips:
Packing a Storage Unit
- Use pallets/skids if possible to keep contents off the floor.
- Store items you may need to access at front of unit.
- Rubbermaid bins make excellent moisture-resistant storage containers. They will also resist buckling better than standard boxes.
- Everything 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 off the ground.
Furniture
- Cover all furniture and disassemble, if possible.
- Lay down blankets or a pallet between the furniture and the floor of the unit.
- Place assembled tables top down on floor with legs pointing towards the ceiling.
- Stack chairs seat-to-seat with cloth or paper separating them.
- Avoid stacking or leaning furniture against outside walls.
Books and Valuable Papers
- Use file boxes. They are the best containers for your important documents.
- Keep pallets free of moisture by placing plastic sheeting on top of them.
Clothes
- In outdoor units, refrain from placing boxes of clothes directly on the floor. They can make attractive homes for rodents. It can be wise to place mouse traps when clothing or upholstered furniture are being stored in shed-style storage.
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 slightly open to prevent odour build-up. An opened box of baking soda can be placed inside for added odour prevention.
Things You Should Never Place in Storage:
Combustible and Hazardous Materials
- These types of materials can cause major damage to the facility and your belongings if they become unstable or catch fire. They can also cause serious injury to the customers and facility personnel. The items include fuel, fireworks, alcohol, aerosols, etc. People often overlook the obvious items such as fuel tanks on lawnmowers, snow blowers, and other maintenance equipment. Also hazardous are toxic or chemical materials such as cleaners, paints and paint thinner.
Animals or Plants
- It is against regulation to store any living thing, in self-storage, as they will attract insects and pests. Storage of pets in these types of facilities is prohibited and violators could be charged with animal cruelty. Animal products are also not allowed in self-storage, as they will attract vermin.
Perishable Food
- When packing the contents of a home, especially the kitchen, people sometimes pack food in boxes along with other items. Canned food shouldn�t be a problem but there are restrictions on perishable foods, as they will attract vermin.
Insurance
- You also may want to contact your home insurance company. Often you can purchase a rider on your home-owners insurance policy to insure items in storage as well as during transit to and from storage. You may want to alter the coverage of this policy if you add or remove items from the unit.
- When considering insurance, keep in mind that you are insuring against more than just theft. Insurance can protect you against fire, floods, and accidental damage.
Remember Self Storage is not store it and forget it, you should check up on you unit on a regular basis. You may prevent potential loss or damage to your belongings.