DO follow these packing tips.

• Use pallets, 2 x 4’s plywood, or anything that will keep your items off the unit’s floor. Store In A Wink also sells plastic sheeting to keep your items off the floor. Give us a call at 316-260-9465 to purchase today!
• Utilize all of the space in your unit.
• Make a plan as to how you want to arrange your items. A good plan will save time and keep you from rearranging your unit. Leave an aisle in the center of your unit, so you have a walkway to the back of the storage unit.
• Use freestanding shelves to help organize your unit.
• Label the boxes on all six sides and keep a list for easy reference.
• When packing boxes, fill them without making them too heavy to lift. Always put the heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter ones on top of the heavier ones. This will prevent boxes from being crushed. Keep boxes off the floor.
• Be sure to store frequently-used items at the front of the unit to avoid having to search for them.
• To protect your items, cover them with moving pads, sheets, or light blankets.
• Be sure to check your unit once a month.
• Disassemble items such as tables, bed frames, etc., to save space.
• Wrap and label all pieces so it will be easier to reassemble them.
• Put all hardware in bags and mark the bags accordingly.
• When disassembling electronics such as computers, stereos, or other items with numerous cords, place small, colored stickers on the cord and the same color sticker where the cord goes. This will save you the hassle of figuring out what goes where when it comes time to reassemble your electronics. Use the original boxes to store your electronics and other items if possible.
• Make sure that all appliances are clean and dry before storing them. Leave appliances slightly ajar to prevent mildew.
• If possible, store couches on end. Stack chairs seat to seat. Store smaller items inside appliances and drawers. When stacking furniture, use paper pads between the items to avoid scratching.
• Store mattresses and box springs on long edges. Wrap for protection and elevate off the floor. Use two to three 2 x 4’s cut to 1 foot long.
• Store mirrors and paintings on the end, not flat.
• Pack books flat to protect their spines.
• To prevent rusting, rub a small amount of machine oil on metal tools, bicycles, and equipment.
• Drain and clean all debris from all equipment before you store them.
• When wrapping collectibles or anything breakable, tape it after you cover it. This should help to keep you from mistaking them for excess paper to fill the box. Use bubble wrap or unprinted paper to wrap breakables.
• Group similar items and mark the boxes accordingly.
• Clothing and draperies should be stored in wardrobe boxes on hangers to retain their original shapes.
• Purchase the insurance. If your belongings are worth storing, they are worth insuring.
• Rubbermaid containers are great for storing your items. They have tight-fitting lids and stack easily.
• Keep valuable items in the rear of the unit. This will prevent others from seeing them when you are in your unit.
• Keep out-of-season clothes accessible, as your belongings may be in storage longer than anticipated.
• Be aware of your surroundings when you are in your unit. If you see a potential problem or anything suspicious, alert the manager.

AVOID storing your items as per the below

• Do not use plastic to cover your belongings. It retains moisture.
• Do not store any food items. This will prevent any unwanted guests.
• Do not pack your boxes, so they are too heavy to carry, especially when packing books.
• Do not assume that your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance will cover your belongings while in storage. Purchase the insurance.
• Do not give out your password, gate code, or any information to anyone not listed with access.
• Do not use printed newspaper for wrapping. The ink may smudge and get on your items.
• Do not forget to clean appliances before you store them.
• Do not store toxins or flammables such as paint, oil, or gasoline.

Content courtesy of smdservers.net