103 Foothill Drive Pilot Mountain, NC 27041
Storage Tips
Things to do before storing:
- Make a list of all the packing supplies you will need. Such as boxes, tape,
bubble wrap, marking pens, and rope.
- Visit the facility that you want to store your items. Take a list of what you are
going to be storing so that the manager can help you determine the correct
size for your needs.
- If using movers schedule them 30-45 days in advance.
- Be sure to read the lease before signing it. Make sure you are aware of
company policies on moving out, paying the rent and other important
information.
- If you are using a moving company, find out what size truck they will be
using. This is valuable in determining if your unit will be accessible to that
truck. Most moving companies charge more the farther they have to carry
your things.
Do:
- Use plastic or any thing that will keep your items off the floor of the unit.
- 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 center of your unit so that you
have a walk way to the back of the 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.
- 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 hard ware in bags and mark the bags
accordingly.
- When you disassemble electronics, such as computers, stereos, things
that have 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 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 mirrors and paintings on end, not flat.
- 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.
- Rubbermaid containers are great to store your items. They have tight fitting
lids and stack easily.
- 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.
Don't:
- 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 that they are too heavy to carry them. Especially
when you are packing books.
- Do not give out your key, gate code or any information to any one that
should not have "Access" to your unit.
- Do not use printed newspaper. 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.