Tips for the Best Way to Set up Your Self-Storage Unit
If you opt for self-storage over warehouse storage, follow these tips for packing and stacking your unit to maximize the space:
Be sure everything will fit.
Don’t get a unit that is too big, or you will be paying rent to store air. Don’t get one that is too small, because if you booked in advance there may not be a unit available when you are moving everything in and find out it will not all fit. Choose one that is just right; your moving service should be able to help you estimate your storage needs.
Be safe.
If you are storing gasoline powered items, like lawn mowers, drain the fuel. Air out your fridge, clothes washer and dishwasher, make sure they are completely dry inside and leave the door open a little bit to prevent mildew. Cover mattresses and couches with plastic to keep dust off them.
Box everything.
Use the correct boxes to suit the purpose. Your movers should be able to advise you on what types of boxes to use. For example, you may find you need dish barrels to keep your china or dishware safe, while more uniform boxes will suffice for your other household goods. Since you will be stacking them, you want to use boxes with sturdy sides.
Stack on a good foundation.
Set up pallets first to prevent insects from setting up homes under your boxes and hitching a ride to your next. The first layer of boxes should be the heaviest. Make full use of vertical space by stacking as high as possible, with the lightest boxes on top.
Put most-used items near the door.
If you know you’ll need access to some items while they’re in storage, be sure to place these things where they’re accessible.
Leave an aisle or aisles.
Having an aisle that allows you to move to the back of the stacks, makes it easier to move around and get things from anywhere within the unit.
Use empty furniture and appliances.
Put boxes in your fridge, in your stove, or in your washing machine; anything that has a hollow inside can be used to store items that will fit. Pack boxes in dresser frames, cabinets with shelves removed, desk hutches and shelving units.
Break down and remove parts.
Take apart bed frames and wrap the pieces together using movers’ wrap. Remove shelves from cabinets and hutches. Remove and package the shelf pins and tape to matching unit. Remove and wrap glass, put soft wrap between glass pieces. Wrap these breakable pieces securely with bubble wrap.
Draw a map.
Keep a list or diagram of where everything is, so you can retrieve anything you may need.
Stay away from plastic.
Don’t use plastic bags for storage, because it may invite mildew and mold. Instead, use breathable materials like moving blankets and furniture pads, which still offer protection.
Solve your storage problem with Cheap Movers Baltimore. Call us today and we will gladly connect you with moving companies that can also provide storage services during your transition. It’s free to request a quote, so what are you waiting for?!