Storage Tips

PREPARATION & SUPPLIES

• Before you start packing, select the range of Packing Supplies that you will need to make the job easier and make sure that your belongings don't get damaged.
  
• Create a 'Portable Packing Kit' with a marker pen, parcel tape, labels, scissors and tape measure. Carry it with you as you go packing around your home.
  

PACKING BOXES

• Each time you pack a box, use your marker pen to label where they are to be unloaded and also write the contents on the side. Label the boxes on all six sides and keep a list for easy reference. This will save you time if you have to look for something in particular. When packing boxes fill them without making them too heavy to lift.
  
• Use a digital camera to take pictures of the items in each box. Create a spreadsheet with the box number and photo number listed - a picture is worth a thousand words!
  
• Always put the heavier boxes on the bottom and the lighter ones on top of the heavier ones. This will prevent boxes from being crushed. Keep boxes off the floor.
  
• Always stack plates upright on their sides, making sure you wrap them individually in tissue. If you find the contents are loose in the box you can use 'void fill' to keep them in place.
  
• There are all different sizes of specialised storage boxes available, from an archive box for important papers, to a large box for bulkier items. Boxes should be filled to capacity to avoid them tipping. Use smaller boxes for heavier items so they are easier to lift. Use a wardrobe box (box with a hanger bar) for clothes to help them keep their shape.
  
• Have an 'essentials box' and fill with items such as: Kettle, mugs, tea, coffee, milk sugar, toilet rolls, snacks and soft drink.
  

DELICATE ITEMS

• Wrap pictures and mirrors individually in bubble wrap, mark as fragile and stack on end.
  
• You will need protective wrap for your delicate belongings: Bubble wrap is the ideal way to protect your electrical items such as T.V and Stereo, or particularly delicate items such as crystal. Acid free tissue for your crockery and corrugated card for your chair and table legs.
  

CAREFUL!

• If you are moving yourself, make sure you don't lift too much, if you need to move heavy appliances, it can be a good idea to get extra help, appliance rollers or trolleys.
  

LARGER ITEMS

• Drain freezers, washing machines and refrigerators prior to storage. Store these items with the door wedged open.
  
• Wrap couches, fridges and cupboards with tube wrap to protect them during transport.
  
• Cover table tops with bubble wrap to prevent scratches during transport and storage.
  

DO'S & DONT'S

DO:

• Utilize all the space in your unit. Make a plan as to how you are going to arrange your items. A good plan will save you the time of having to rearrange your unit. Leave an aisle in the centre of your unit so that you have a walk way to the back of the unit.
  
• Use freestanding shelves to help organize your unit.
  
• Label the boxes on all six sides and keep a list for easy reference. This will save you time if you have to look for something in particular. When packing boxes fill them without making them too heavy to lift. Always put the heavier boxes on the bottom and the 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. This will save space. Wrap and label all pieces for an easier time when you have to reassemble them. Put all hardware in bags and mark the bags accordingly.
  
• When you disassemble electronics, such as computers, stereos, things that have numerous cords, place small coloured stickers on the cord and the same colour sticker where the cord goes. This will save you the hassle of trying to figure out what goes where when it comes time to reassemble your electronics. If possible, use the original boxes to store your electronics and other items.
  
• Make sure that all appliances are clean and dry before storing them. Leave appliances slightly ajar to prevent mildew.
  
• If it is possible store couches on end. Stack chairs seat to seat. Use the inside of appliances and drawers to store smaller items. When stacking furniture use paper pads in 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 (50mm * 100mm timber) cut to 1 foot (300mm) long.
  
• Store mirrors and paintings on 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 wrap it. This should avoid mistaking them for excess paper to fill the box. Use bubble wrap or unprinted paper to wrap breakables. Group similar items together 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.
  
• Plastic containers are great to store your items. They have tight fitting lids and stack easily. Keep the more 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, you may have your belongings 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.
  
• Clean all outside tools and equipment before packing. Make sure not 'living' items are included (pot plants, pets)
  

DONT:

• Never pack bedding or clothes in plastic bags. By using boxes, the items won't 'sweat'. If you are storing them for a long period, you should put a 'moisture absorber' in the box.
  
• Don't forget to leave a little 'breathing space' for items covered in plastic. Items retain moisture when fully enclosed in plastic.
  
• Do not store any food items. This will prevent any unwanted guests.
  
• Do not pack your boxes so that they are too heavy to carry - especially when you are packing books!
  
• Do not give out your password, gate code or any information to anyone that is not listed as having 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 any toxins or flammables such as paint, oil, or gasoline (petrol).