Storage Tips

1. Make packing for storage easier on yourself by planning ahead.

   Start by listing all the items you’re going to store and their approximate sizes. Also, gather up plenty of sturdy, corrugated cartons, packing paper, bubble wrap, sealing tape and marker pens, along with any furniture covers or shelving you intend to use in your storage unit.

2. Pack as much as you can in the same boxes.

   Fill boxes tightly, but take care to neither over pack or under pack. (Bulging cartons tip when stacked, while half full boxes tend to collapse.) Use wadded up newsprint, bubble wrap, rags, towels, or blankets to fill in empty spaces. For maximum protection seal cartons with tape.

3. Pack heavy items such as books and tools in small boxes.

   For easier handling limit the weight of all cartons, regardless of size, to 30lbs. or less.

4. Label all boxes.

   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.

5. Clean and dry appliances before storing.

   Secure all movable parts with paper, or wedge and wrap a paper pad around each item for protection. During transport, tape all doors shut, but remember to wedge them open for storage.

6. Tape or tie bed rails together.

   Mark the pieces for easier assembly later. Place covers or plastic bags on mattresses to keep them clean during storage.

7. Pack books flat to protect their spines.

   Line cartons with plastic and fill empty spaces with packing paper.

8. Use bureau drawers to store small, fragile items.

   Secure items in drawer by filling empty spaces with towels or packing paper.

9. Protect chair legs by wrapping them in packing paper.

   Leave slipcovers on upholstered chairs and cover them with plastic chair covers.

10. Hang clothes and draperies in wardrobe boxes.

    Add mothballs or cedar chips for extra protection,.

11. Use lots of paper to pack dishes and glassware.

    Place a layer of packing paper inside the bottom and top of cartons. Wrap each dish and glass separately and cushion them with crumpled paper. Plates are best stacked on edge.

12. Pack lamps and lampshades in individual boxes.

    Use plenty of clean paper or clothing for padding.

13. Pad mirrors and paintings with paper.

    Place them in special mirror packs or large boxes; mark boxes.