Top 20 Storage Tips

1. Never store combustible or toxic items.

2. Do not store food or perishables.

3. Make an inventory of the items you store.

4. Label boxes for easy reference.

5. Pack boxes full and snug to prevent tipping and collapse.

6. Seal boxes with tape for better protection.

7. Cover the cement floor with cardboard or, even better, inexpensive plastic drop cloths.

8. Whenever possible, store items off the floor - use brick, pallets, or even lumber turned on edge.

9. Place items in the order that you will need to access them; those that will be readily used should be placed in the front of the storage unit.

10. Use all the space available, including height. Stand sofas on end, stack chairs pad to pad, remove table legs, stand mattresses on end against the walls, break down bed frames. Anything that comes apart is easier to store and uses less space.

11. Stack largest and heaviest boxes on the bottom with the lighter boxes on top.

12. Put smaller boxes in and around larger objects such as furniture, appliances, etc.

13. Fill drawers and appliances with small items to conserve space.

14. Store mirrors and pictures on end.

15. Always drain refrigerators, freezers, and washing machines prior to storage. Store these items with the door cracked.

16. Use furniture and mattress covers for protection from dust and dirt.

17. Place valuables, such as electronic equipment, towards the rear of your storage unit.

18. Use shelving to maximize your storage space.

19. Drain gasoline from lawn mowers and other power equipment.  Wipe a few drops of machine oil on all metal tools, bicycles, and equipment to prevent rusting.

20. Use a quality lock to secure your unit.