PACKING TIPS

We’ve Got You Covered

Money Savers Self Storage wants you to have the best storage experience possible. To make the process a bit easier for you, we figured you’d like to know all the ins and outs of packing.

Self-Storage is a convenient, safe, and inexpensive way to store your belongings. Proper planning will make for an efficient and cost-effective storage experience. If you plan to frequently use the unit, a larger space may be more convenient than one packed to capacity. Here are some things to consider when packing a temporary self-storage unit that will minimize your space requirements, and prevent damage to your possessions.

HOW TO PACK EFFECTIVELY:

Plan your storage space. Place items in front that will be accessed frequently. Allow for walkways.
Fill each box with your heaviest items on the bottom and lighter items on top.
Dishes and glasses should be wrapped in packing paper and placed in dish pack boxes. All glass items should be individually wrapped. Nest cups and bowls. Stand plates, saucers, and platters on edge. Wrapped glasses should be placed near the top of cartons. Fill all pockets with packing material. Label all boxes containing glassware, and do not place heavy items on boxes containing glassware. Stack these boxes on top.
List contents of boxes on all four sides, number the boxes, seal with packaging tape.
Try to keep your boxes in uniform sizes. They are much easier to stack that way.
Pack books flat to protect their spines. Do not pack fragile items in the same box as books and do not overload.
Shovels, hoes, rakes, and hoses can be stored together in empty trash cans. Stack extra cans inside one another.

SECURITY:

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. Take pictures of expensive or irreplaceable items. Keep this list in a safe place at home or in a safe deposit box.

MOISTURE PREVENTION:

Pack your boxes and other items as close together as possible to avoid air condensation/moisture accumulating between them. Also, leave a small space, even just an inch, between the wall and your storage items to allow for ventilation to prevent mildew.
Do not place boxes directly on concrete floors, but use pallets or skids. Place your storage items on 2 x 4 boards or pallets to guard against dampness. Any concrete floor may become cold and damp in winter.
Bicycles and other metal items will rust over time if not protected. To retard rust, wipe all metal surfaces with a rag containing a few drops of machine oil.

FURNITURE & APPLIANCES:

Pictures and mirrors should be wrapped in mirror crates marked “FRAGILE” and stacked on end.
Furniture with drawers can be used to store knickknacks, china, silverware, and small items. Wrap these items in tablecloths, towels, or blankets to prevent breakage.
A refrigerator or freezer should be thoroughly dry and stored with its door slightly ajar to avoid mildew. Larger appliances make excellent “packing cases” for blankets, towels, tablecloths, and clothes.
Ensure that stoves and cooking equipment are cleaned before they are stored to not rust metal parts or attract rodents.
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.
If you stand mattresses on end, be sure to “prop” them up.

CLOTHING:

All fabric items need to be clean before storage or they can yellow.

Clothing, curtains, and drapes should be stored on plastic (not metal) hangers and hang if possible. If hanging is not possible, such items should be carefully folded and stored in dresser drawers or cedar chests along with bedding and linens.

PROHIBITED STORAGE ITEMS:

You cannot store any hazardous, toxic, or illegal items. Also, no food or perishable items can be stored in the units. Please ask the property manager for any questions. (360) 268-1818

Examples of items that cannot be stored are:

Ammunition, gasoline, paint, paint thinner, propane, food, produce, plants, fireworks, fish totes, crab pots, etc.

You may not physically live in or stay overnight in any unit!

Packing Tips: Packing Tips