- Plan your storage space. Place items in front that will be accessed frequently. Allow for walkways.
- Completely fill each box with your heaviest items on the bottom and lighter items on top.
- Try to keep your boxes in uniform sizes. They are much easier to stack that way.
- Label ALL boxes for easy identification.
- Leave a small space between the wall and your storage items to allow for ventilation.
- Pack your boxes and other items as close together as possible to avoid moisture accumulating between them.
- Use a HIGH QUALITY lock, preferably a "disc lock", for your unit.
- List contents of boxes on all four sides, number the boxes, seal with masking tape or glued paper tape.
- Dishes and glasses should be wrapped in packing paper and placed in dish pack boxes.
- Place your storage items on 2" x 4" boards or pallets to guard against dampness.
- Pictures and mirrors should be wrapped in mirror crates marked "FRAGILE" and stacked on end.
- Furniture with drawers can be utilized as storage places for knickknacks, china, silverware and small items.
- A refrigerator or freezer should be thoroughly dry and stored with its door slightly ajar.
- Make sure that stoves and cooking equipment are cleaned before they are stored.
- Shovels, hoes, rakes and hoses can be stored together in empty trash cans.
- Bicycles and other metal items will rust over time if not protected, wipe all metal surfaces with a rag containing a few drops of machine oil.
- Pack books flat to protect their spines.
- Do not place boxes directly on concrete floors, but use pallets or skids to prevent moisture absorption.
- Use packing to fill out empty pockets in the boxes.
- Tables with removable legs should be "broken down" to save space.
- Sofas and love-seats can be stored on end to save floor space.
- Cover stuffed furniture with dust cover.
- If you stand mattresses on end, be sure to "prop" them up.