Here are some helpful suggestions to keep your valuables and keepsakes stored safely:
- Plan your storage space. Place those items that you need to get to often in the front. 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
- Drain all gas and oil from engines in lawnmowers, tillers, etc
- 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. They are much harder to break or cut keeping your valuables as safe as possible
- Make up an inventory of your stored items and keep it in a safe place at home or in a safe deposit box
- Stack lighter boxes on top of heavier boxes
- Dishes and glasses should be wrapped in packing paper and placed in dish pack boxes. Stack those on top
- Place your storage items on 2" x 4" boards or VisiQueen to guard against dampness. Any concrete floor may become cold and damp
- CAUTION: It is against the law to store materials that are HAZARDOUS or COMBUSTIBLE such as gasoline, solvents, paint, etc. Drain our all remaining gasoline from lawn mowers, power tools, boats, snowmobiles, etc
- 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. Wrap in tablecloths, towels or blankets to prevent breakage
- Larger appliances make excellent "packing cases" for blankets, towels, tablecloths and clothes
- Shovels, hoes, rakes and hoses can be stored together in empty trash cans. Stack extra cans inside one another
- Tables with removable legs should be "broken down" to save space
- Sofas and loveseats can be stored on end to save floor space. Always place a protective waterproof cover under the end on the floor. Cushions should be wrapped in plastic and placed on top
- Cover stuffed furniture with dust cover to protect against dust
- If you stand mattresses on end, be sure to "prop" them up to stand straight or they may bend out of shape and become lumpy