Storage Tips

A little planning in the weeks before your move makes the whole process smoother.

• Start early: Make a timeline for cleaning out, labeling, and organizing — one room or closet at a time. Gather packing supplies well in advance.

• Lighten your load: A month out is the perfect time to sort everything into keep, give, and trash. Donate what you don't need and toss anything broken or expired.

• Handle the logistics: Send address change cards, transfer utilities, collect items from repair shops, and return anything you've borrowed.

• On moving day: Discard flammables like paint and gasoline (these can't go in storage), defrost the fridge and freezer, and cover mattresses with mattress bags.

Different belongings need different prep. A few minutes of preparation before storing can prevent damage down the road.

• Furniture and mattresses: Disassemble beds and tables when possible, and stand sofas and mattresses on end to save space. Keep upholstery off the floor and cover furniture with a light cotton sheet, which protects against dust while still letting air circulate.

• Appliances: Clean and thoroughly dry all appliances before storing. Leave refrigerator and freezer doors slightly ajar to prevent mold, and confirm everything is unplugged and powered off. Sturdy appliance tops make great stacking surfaces for boxes.

• Fragile items: Wrap dishes, glassware, and mirrors individually with packing paper. Stack plates on their edge rather than flat, and store mirrors, glass, and framed art upright on their edges. Label these boxes clearly and never stack heavy items on top.

• Metal items and tools: Wipe tools, bikes, and other metal surfaces with a lightly oiled rag to prevent rust. Bundle long-handled tools like rakes and shovels together.

• Fabrics and books: Store clothing, curtains, and linens on hangers or folded in dresser drawers or cedar chests. Pack books flat to protect their spines, and don't overload the box

Good boxes and smart packing make loading, stacking, and finding your items much easier.

• Use quality materials: Choose sturdy, same-size boxes for easy stacking, or plastic bins with tight-fitting lids for extra protection. Seal everything completely with packing tape.

• Manage weight: Pack heavy items such as books and tools in small boxes. For easier handling limit the weight of all cartons, regardless of size, to 30 lbs. or less.

• Label everything: Clearly label boxes so you know their contents, and keep a list (as well as pictures and descriptions) at your home or office for reference. Mark clearly all boxes containing fragile items.

Packing your storage unit properly helps protect your belongings, maximize space, and makes it easier to find items when you need them. Here are a few best practices:

• Protect your belongings first: Never store boxes, furniture, mattresses, or other valuable items directly on the concrete floor. Place items on pallets, shelving, or another elevated surface whenever possible. If elevating your belongings isn't practical, place a plastic vapor barrier between your items and the concrete floor. This simple step helps protect against moisture transfer and promotes better air circulation, especially for long-term storage. 
• Pack smart: Use sturdy boxes, place heavier items on the bottom and lighter items on top and clearly label each box on multiple sides. Maximize your space by disassembling large furniture when possible, stand mattresses and couches upright if appropriate, and stack items carefully to make the most of your unit. 
• Plan for easy access and document what you placed in the unit: Create a walkway through the center of the unit, keep frequently used items near the front, and consider making a simple inventory of what's stored.  Document an inventory of the items in your unit and take photos before and after packing. Having a record of your belongings can make it easier to locate items later and may also be helpful for insurance purposes if you ever need to file a claim.

A few simple steps before parking your vehicle or RV can protect it from the elements and keep it ready for the road.

• Tires: Check the pressure of all tires and check for dry rot. Cover any tires that will be exposed to the elements.

• Batteries: Remove any batteries and store them in an area that is not subjected to the elements. Periodically test and charge the batteries if needed.

• Propane: Turn off supply valves and appliances, and keep any vents open. If stored for an extended period, make sure to inspect your propane system before use!

• Refrigerators and perishables: Turn off refrigerators and verify that all power sources are off. Remove all perishable items from cabinets, the refrigerator, and other parts of the vehicle.

• RV vents: Open rooftop vents to circulate air. This helps prevent mold and mildew.

• Covers: Place a cover over your vehicle for an added layer of protection against dust and grime.

While no storage environment can eliminate the possibility of mold or mildew, taking a few preventive steps before storing your belongings can significantly reduce the risk.

• Choose a temperature-controlled unit whenever possible. Temperature-controlled storage helps minimize temperature fluctuations and provides a more stable environment, making it the preferred choice for long-term storage and for protecting furniture, electronics, clothing, documents, photographs, and other sensitive belongings. 
• Start with clean, dry belongings. Never store damp clothing, furniture, rugs, boxes, or other items. Moisture trapped inside stored items is the leading cause of mold and mildew. 
• Promote airflow and reduce moisture. Keep your belongings off the concrete floor by using pallets, shelving, or a plastic vapor barrier. Leave space between your belongings and the walls, avoid packing the unit too tightly, and use breathable furniture covers instead of plastic whenever possible. 
• Inspect your unit periodically. If you're storing items for an extended period, visit your unit occasionally to check that your belongings remain clean, dry, and properly organized. Early detection of any issue can help prevent damage.

While no storage facility can eliminate the possibility of rodents or pests, proper packing and storage techniques can significantly reduce the risk.

• Choose the right storage unit. Temperature-controlled units provide a more stable environment for your belongings and are recommended for most long-term storage. Because these units are typically accessed from enclosed interior hallways rather than directly from the outdoors, they may also reduce exposure to insects, rodents, dust, and weather compared to traditional drive-up units. 
• Pack and store items properly. Store only clean, dry belongings and remove all food, beverages, pet food, and scented items that could attract pests. Whenever possible, use sturdy plastic storage bins with tight-fitting lids instead of cardboard boxes. Keep your belongings elevated on pallets or shelving, avoid storing items directly on the concrete floor, and leave space between your belongings and the walls to improve airflow and visibility. 
• Take simple preventative measures. Cedar blocks or cedar chips may help discourage some insects around clothing, linens, and wood furniture. Sticky traps placed along the perimeter of your unit can provide early indication of rodent or insect activity. If you're storing items for an extended period, inspect your unit occasionally to ensure your belongings remain clean, dry, and in good condition.