Packing and Storage Tips
Sometimes moving to a new location can be overwhelming, but here at Storage Express we understand that, and therefore have developed a list of tips based on customer experience, along with our own, in which we hope that you will find useful. It is our desire to help make your transition as smooth as possible.
PACKING
- Get ahead and ease the stress of moving by packing out of season things a month or two in advance
- Pack things that you don’t use that often a few weeks in advance and then pack the rest just before moving!
- Leave the heavy objects toward the bottom.
- Label boxes on both the top and sides.
- Wrap items separately prior to storing in boxes. Bubble wrap, linens or paper are recommended.
- Leave appliance and equipment doors slightly ajar. Drain your washing machine and defrost your fridge/freezer.
- For clothing, use wardrobe boxes that allow you to hang them and save the shape of garments. Leave smaller garments in drawers.
- If possible, put smaller appliances in their original boxes.
- Fill in empty spaces with paper to prevent boxes from folding.
- Don’t lean stored property against the walls of your unit. Whenever possible, store all boxes on wooden pallets or boards.
- Don’t stack boxes so high that getting to them becomes dangerous or overly time consuming.
- Leave an aisle down the middle of your unit so that boxes and other items can be easily seen and identified.
- Make a complete list of all goods stored. Keep sales receipts, proofs of purchase and warranties to prove ownership.
- Take furniture apart to optimize space. Any bolts, screws or parts should be put in a plastic bag and taped to the underside of table tops.
- Chairs should be stacked seat to seat with paper or cloth between them.
- Never store live animals, combustibles, (paint, chemicals, toxic materials) or perishable items (such as food).
- Use protective covers.
- Always use high quality locks on your unit.
- You have sole responsibility for the goods you place in storage. Check with your insurance carrier for coverage, or ask a storage consultant for a list of low cost providers. Remember: if it’s worth storing, it’s worth insuring.
- Be sure to read over your lease agreement and make sure that you have all your questions answered before signing!