Tips on Moving, Packing, and Storage
Below are some moving, packing, and
self storage tips we thought might be helpful..

Packing Tips
1.  Keep the following supplies handy for packing: boxes, marking pen,
bubble wrap, newspaper and tissue, tape and scissors, tape measure.

2.  Label each box with the room the box contents belong in.  Write “Open
First” on cartons containing essential items such as cooking utensils,
toiletries, etc.  Write “Fragile” on each side of a box which contains delicate
items.

3.  Use large boxes for light items and smaller boxes for heavier items.  

4.  For stacking purposes, try to keep your boxes in uniform sizes. Keep the
heavy ones on the bottom and the light ones on top.

5.  Fill boxes to capacity because partially full or bulging boxes may tip or
collapse.

Choosing the Right Storage Place

The first thing you need to consider is which self-storage facility to use. If
you're unsure, visit some self-storage facilities and check them out first
before you choose. By the time you make your choice you should be
comfortable with the following:
a.) Security features in place - lighting is key!
b.) Access to your self-storage unit when you need it
c.) The units are the right size for your needs and future needs
d.) The storage units are clean and well-maintained

Organizing your Storage Unit

1.  Use all the space available, including the height.

2.  Place a pallet on concrete floors and leave a walkway in your space for
easy access.  

3.  Placing frequently used items near the door. Label your boxes and take
home an inventory list of the labeled boxes for easy reference when you
need to locate your goods.

4.  Heavy items like books or tools should be packed in small boxes so they
are easier to lift.

5.  Protect your fragile goods with packing (i.e., bubble-pack or other) and
place them near the top of your storage space.

Storing Appliances
1.  Tape doors shut while moving your appliances.   

2.  A refrigerator or freezer should be dry and stored with the door slightly
open to prevent the build-up of mold / mildew and odors. Some goods can
be stored inside large appliances and boxes can be stacked on top of
stoves, refrigerators, and freezers.

Storing Bedding, Clothing, Curtains, Drapes and Linens

1.  Clothing, curtains, and drapes should be stored on non-rusting hangers.
You can purchase moving boxes designed for this or such items should be
carefully folded and stored in dresser drawers or cedar chests along with
bedding and linens.

2.  Use cedar chips or mothballs to prevent moth, or insect, damage.

Storing Books and Documents

1.  Pack books flat to protect their spines and together in small boxes for
easier moving.

2.  Consider placing boxes on pallets or skids to prevent moisture
absorption.

3.  Store your valuable papers and documents in plastic bags.

Storing Bicycles and Other Metal Items

1.  It might be a good idea to put a few drops of oil on items that might rust.
Insure that these items don't come in contact with other items.  

2.  For lawn mowers and motorcycles, remove all gas and oil and store on a
plastic sheet.

Storing Dishes and Glassware

1.  All glass items should be individually wrapped. Wrapped glasses
should be placed near the top of the cartons.

2.  Do not place heavy items on boxes containing glassware.

Storing Electronic Equipment

1.  Use the original boxes. If you don't have them, pack items carefully and
use cushion material such as bubble wrap, foam or wadded up newspaper.

2.  Pack items separately.

3.  Consider the temperature as heat can warp CD's and record albums.

Storing Furniture

1.  Disassemble bed frames and tie them together. Use plastic bags to
store screws and bolts and tape them to the items that they belong to.

2.  If you stack furniture items, place pads, blankets, or towels between
them to prevent scratching.

3.  Store frames in back corner to prevent them from falling over on other
items. Don't use plastic to cover items as moisture can condense under it.
Consider using sheets or cotton cloth.

4.  Stand mattresses on end, as well as sofas with pallets or cardboard
under them. It is a good idea to wrap mattresses in mattress bags or cover
them with paper or cloth. Stand mattress on something to allow airflow and
to prevent moisture from getting to them.

Storing Pictures and Mirrors
Wrap pictures that are small and consider special picture moving boxes for
larger ones. Consider using foam or bubble wrap.

What Not to Store
1.  Flammables: Do not store flammables such as matches, fireworks,
cleaning fluids, chemistry sets, acids, aerosol cans, and ammunition.

2.  
Hazardous Materials: Do not store any of hazardous, pressurized, or
toxic materials, including liquids and aerosols.

3.  
Fuel: Make certain all fuel is drained from gasoline powered equipment.

4.  
Used Cans: Discard partly used cans of oil, paint, thinner, or other
substances that might leak.

5.  
Food: Do not store items like food, perishables or any other items which
could attract rodents or pests

Tips for Packing Your Storage Unit
1.  Leave a small space between the wall and your storage items to allow
for ventilation.  

2.  Do not lean items against walls as to leave air space around the unit's
perimeter to aid ventilation.

3.  Laying plastic sheeting on the floor and stacking boxes on top of
wooden pallets can prevent condensation damage.

4.  Pack your boxes and other items as close together as possible to avoid
moisture accumulating between them.

5.  Leave access space in front of your unit, and keep your frequently used
items where you can easily reach them.

6.  Stacking uniform size boxes helps maximize your available space.

7.  Leave small walkways between the boxes and furniture in your storage
unit so you can easily get to the items you want without having to move
anything around.







Disclaimer:
This information is provided to assist you in your packing, moving and self
storage needs. It is offered as advice only and is without warranty of any
kind, expressed or implied. The entire risk as to the results and
performance of these tips is assumed by the user.
CAPITAL STORAGE LLC

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