Planning the move and storage of your items is the biggest and most stressful part of the process. It is important that you spend a little time planning ahead.
Make the most of your unit
- Don’t cram your unit – choose a space that leaves a walkway
- Place frequently used items near the door
- Fill all storage containers to capacity to avoid tipping or collapsing
- Store couches – with the exception of sofa beds – against the wall to maximize space
- Place fragile items close to the top
- Maximize your space by using vertical storage, like shelving
Moving Tips
- Disassemble large items an easier move
- Keep parts together by placing them in a bag and attaching them the the item
- Read your contract and familiarize yourself with access, usage, and payment rules
- Label your containers and indicate which are fragile
- Keep a list of your containers for easy reference
- Review your homeowners insurance, and consider the need for tenants insurance
- Wrap pictures and mirrors with paper pads or mirror boxes – never store them flat
Packing Tips
- Only use strong, stackable containers
- Use pallets to keep contents off the floor
- Pack heavier items in small boxes for easy lifting
- Put heavy boxes on the bottom and light boxes on top
- Use special boxes for fragile items
- Take advantage of space inside dressers and wardrobes to store boxes and other items
- Stand mattresses on their end
- Clean all items thoroughly before packing
- Protect furniture legs with blankets and shrink-wrap, or pads, to prevent damage
- Drain any fluids before storing lawn mowers, snow blowers, and other equipment
Other Storage Tips
- Appliances: Ensure that all refrigerators and freezers are completely dry and store them with the door ajar to allow for air circulation
- Bedding and linens: Hang them in your wardrobe or store them in dresser drawers, along with blankets, drapes, and pillows
- Mattresses: Keep them in special mattress bags or old mattress covers to keep them clean when moving and storing
- Chairs: Invert chairs (seat-to-seat) to fit small and light items between the legs
- China and glassware: Wrap them individually with cushioning and stack them on edge
Storage Don’ts
Never keep the following items in storage, as they pose a risk to others:
- Hazardous, flammable, or explosive material storage
- Pets
- Plants
- Firearms
- Drugs or stolen property