Do's:

• Determine if you need climate control or regular storage.

• Determine the packing accessories that you need, for example: paper, bubble wrap, tape, rope, drop cloths, sheets, etc.

• Mirrors, windows and screens should be stored on edges and not flat.

• Metal tools and bicycles should be cleaned and wiped with a rag containing a few drops of machine oil to retard rust. Long handled tools such as rakes, shovels, and hoes should be clean, lightly oiled and tied in a bundle.

• Place the things you are most likely to need closest to the door for easy access.

• Wrap plates, saucers, and bowls individually before placing it in a dishpack. You should also use a dishpack divider for increased security. Fill paper into bottom, top, and empty spaces in the carton.

• Leave appliance doors slightly ajar. Moisture and mildew will damage your valuables so make sure your refrigerator or freezer is clean and dry.

• Use valuable storage space inside appliances for small items.

• Avoid excessive wrinkling to your clothes by using wardrobe boxes.

• Use free standing shelves to help organize your unit.

• Place drop cloths over your items. This helps protect from dust.

• Create an aisle down the center of your space for easy access to all of your items.

• Come to your storage unit on a nice, breezy day and leave the door open for awhile to help with air circulation.

• Give your wood furniture a good coating of polish before storing it.

• Fill boxes completely to avoid collapsing. Seal boxes completely to keep dust out.

• We recommend mattress covers for all bedding. Mattress covers, boxes, and assorted moving supplies are available in our offices.

• Place more valuable items in the back of your space and have the furniture towards the front. If you are storing for a long period, especially during seasonal changes, remember to place items you might need where you can get to them.

• Inventory your electronics and valuable items prior to storing and keep inventory with you. If you have valuable antiques, they should be inventoried as well. You may want to photograph pieces being stored.

• When placing upholstered items or bedding in your space, use pallets or pieces of wood to avoid contact with concrete or metal.

Don'ts

• Never use boxes that once contained food, cosmetics, or liquor. They have an odor and can attract rodents.

• Never store any food items. Food attracts pests.

• Don't use printed newspapers. The ink may smudge onto your belongings.

• Don't pack your boxes so that they are too heavy to carry.

• Don't assume that your homeowners or renters insurance will cover your belongings while in storage.

• Don't give out your password, gate code, or any information to anyone that is not listed as having "Access."

• Don't forget to clean appliances before you store them.

• Don't store any toxins or flammables such as paint, oil, or gasoline.

• Avoid storing items such as glass water filled globes during the winter - they may freeze. Avoid storing items such as candles during the hot weather - they could melt.

Helpful hints to make the packing and storing of your belongings a breeze!

1. Use furniture drawers to hold delicate items. Wrap them in bubble wrap or newspaper.
   
2. When packing toys or smaller objects, remember to fill boxes completely, stuffing open areas with plain newspaper to prevent collapsing when stacked.
   
3. Be careful not to store anything combustible (such as paint and chemicals) or perishable (such as food that is not permanently sealed).
   
4. When storing lawn and garden equipment, drain any fluids prior to storage in order to avoid corrosive damage.
   
5. Use trash cans to store shovels, hoes and rakes.
   
6. Always use high quality locks on your unit. Extra Space Storage sells locks on-site; ask the Store Manager for details.
   
7. When storing delicate heirlooms, use specially constructed boxes, such as wardrobe boxes, and utilize dehumidifiers to prevent mildew build up.
   
8. Store furniture carefully on boards or pallets.
   
9. Cover mattresses and store them flat on level surfaces.
   
10. Store small items like pots and pans in large appliances, such as stoves or refrigerators.
    
11. Break down items (such as table legs) and store large furniture (like tabletops and sofas) on end to save space.
    
12. Use protective covers and treat wood surfaces before storing.
    
13. When storing business files, label all boxes and construct aisles so files are easily seen and accessible.