1. Plan Your Space Before moving in, create an inventory and map out your unit. Designate areas for specific rooms or categories to easily locate items later.
2. Label Everything Label boxes in detail, including room origin and contents. This saves time when searching for specific items.
3. Protect Fragile Items Wrap delicate objects in bubble wrap or use towels and sheets for padding. Pack these items in well-cushioned boxes.
4. Use Small Boxes for Heavy Items Distribute weight by packing heavy items in smaller boxes. Reserve larger boxes for lighter objects.
5. Prepare Mattresses Clean mattresses with baking soda, vacuum, and ensure they’re completely dry before storage.
6. Prevent Moisture Damage Store only dry items to prevent mold and mildew. Use silica gel packets for humidity-sensitive objects. Clean and dry appliances thoroughly, leaving doors slightly open.
7. Disassemble Furniture Take apart furniture when possible to save space. Utilize furniture cavities for additional storage.
8. Maximize Your Space Stack items strategically, placing heavier boxes at the bottom and lighter ones on top.
9. Create Access Paths Leave an aisle to reach items at the back of the unit. Place frequently needed items near the front.
10. Prohibited Items Don’t store perishables, live plants, or hazardous materials. Check with your facility if unsure about specific items.
11. Use Climate Control For sensitive items like upholstered furniture, electronics, pictures and documents select a climate-controlled unit to control temperature and humidity levels.
12. Elevate Items Use wooden pallets to keep belongings off the floor, promoting air circulation.