Pack it once, pack it properly

Points to consider when choosing a self-storage facility

• Adequate security measures and accessibility
• Unit sizes offered — possibilities for increasing or decreasing space needed
• Amount of privacy offered (especially if you are storing valuable items)
• Adequate climate control, particularly for storage of upholstered items, archive documents or business goods
• Cleanliness and maintenance of the facility
• Pest control measures taken
• Possible surprises in the fine print of the contract
• Adequate access for the removal vehicle you plan to use, if you are storing a large amount

How to pack, category by category

Work through these as you load. Most damage in storage comes from three things: moisture trapped inside something sealed, weight on top of something soft, and boxes that were not full enough to stack.

• Inventory and insurance

  In order to be able to find things quickly and easily at a later date, make an inventory of what you pack and where you put it as you go along. Make an estimate of the replacement value of items you pack for accurate insurance information and in case of damage in the storage facility.

• 

  Boxes and stacking

  Invest in sturdy boxes, and box everything you can to keep your belongings clean and safe. Using boxes of uniform size will save space in the unit and make it easier to stack them securely. Fill boxes to capacity whenever possible, packing heavier items on the bottom and lighter ones on top, and filling empty spaces with packing material to prevent breakage. Label all boxes clearly on more than one side, marking "Fragile" any boxes that contain breakable items. Be sure to seal all boxes with tape before storing them; this will help to keep dust out of the contents and make the boxes stronger.

• Bags and books

  Don't pack items in sealed plastic bags, as humidity can cause mildew. Pack books flat to protect their spines.

• Large appliances

  Large appliances must be clean and dry before storage; defrost refrigerators and freezers thoroughly, and drain water from washing machines. Wipe insides of appliances with baking soda before storage. Store refrigerators and freezers with doors slightly ajar to prevent condensation, mold or bad odors from forming.

• Fragile and breakable items

  Wrap all fragile or breakable items separately in paper or bubble wrap, then pack tightly into strong boxes, filling all spaces with filler such as paper or Styrofoam peanuts. When stacking boxes in the storage facility, stack these boxes on top of the heavier ones.

• Clothing

  Clothing is best stored in wardrobe or clothes boxes, where items can be hung up and will keep their shape. Storing clothing in bin liners invites the possibility of moisture being trapped inside and ruining your clothes.

• Mirrors, pictures and lamps

  Mirrors and pictures should always be stored on end, never flat, and should be wrapped with a protective covering such as bubble wrap and marked as "Fragile." Lamp bases and shades should be separated and wrapped for protection.

• Upholstered furniture and mattresses

  Upholstered furniture such as sofas or mattresses should be covered with bags, sheeting or covers. Stand sofas and mattresses on end to save space whenever possible, and try not to stack too much on top of these soft items. If you stack several pieces of furniture on top of each other, protect them from scratching or damage by placing a dust sheet or cover between them.

• Large furniture — dismantle and save space

  To save space, dismantle large pieces of furniture such as beds or tables. Wrap and cover furniture sections and keep them together, clearly marked. Put screws and bolts in plastic bags, also marked, and tape them to the relevant piece of furniture for easy retrieval and re-assembly. Store large pieces of furniture vertically to save space in the facility. To save even more space, store small boxes in anything that's hollow, such as furniture drawers, wardrobes, and kitchen appliances like stoves and refrigerators.

• Chairs and wood furniture

  Stack chairs seat to seat to save space, wrapping the legs for extra protection. Spray any wood furniture with a good furniture spray before storage.

• Electrical equipment

  Electrical equipment such as TVs, computers, and stereos should be packed in their original boxes if possible, or at least in boxes that are about the right size and have any gaps filled in with paper or other packing material.

• Tools and metal items

  Tools and metal items should be rubbed down with oil before storage to prevent rust. Tools can be tied into bundles for storage. Never store brooms or brushes on their bristles, as this will damage them. Remove bags before storing vacuum cleaners.

• Photographs and archive documents

  Photographs or archive documents are not recommended for self-storage, as they are easily damaged due to temperature changes unless the facility is climate-controlled. If you choose to store loose photographs, they should be stored flat between pieces of cardboard that are taped together to prevent curling.

Hard rules and don'ts

Read these before loading the truck.

• Fuel CANNOT be stored in a self-storage facility.
• Any items with fuel tanks, such as cars and lawn mowers, must have their fuel tanks emptied before storage.
• Don't pack items in sealed plastic bags, as humidity can cause mildew.
• Don't store clothing in bin liners — moisture gets trapped inside and ruins the clothes.
• Don't store mirrors or pictures flat; always store them on end and mark them "Fragile."
• Don't store large appliances damp — defrost, drain and dry them, and leave fridge and freezer doors slightly ajar.
• Don't stand brooms or brushes on their bristles, and remove the bag before storing a vacuum cleaner.
• Loose photographs, if you store them at all, should lie flat between taped pieces of cardboard to prevent curling.