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Introduction to Storage & Packing Tips
The following tips will serve you well in preserving
your contents in storage, but it's just as important to
consider that these tips serve just as well as if you
were moving. Let's face it, even relocating some
of your furniture and belongs is like a move. Most
damage can come from vibration and sudden jolts while in
transit. Proper materials, planning and careful
packing will prove to be worth all the time and money
required.
About Boxes
Grocery and other retail stores are often happy to
provide free boxes for your needs. Uniform size
boxes are recommended as they will stack much easier for
moving and storage. Boxes should be filled in a
complete and compact manner. Over filling or under
filling should be avoided. Use larger boxes for
lighter items and smaller boxes for heavier items.
Boxes should be sealed with packing tape.
When moving items, cover them with moving pads, sheets,
or light blankets to protect them from scratches or
debris. Rubbermaid and other air tight containers
are great for storing and stacking.
Managing Inventory
Boxes should be labeled either with a number and/or list
of contents.
With a numbering system, you can keep a descriptive
record for locating items with ease and for keeping
track of your contents. If possible, computers,
stereos, and other electronics are best stored in their
original boxes and packing. Place their respective
cords in each box. You may want to use a
coloured-sticker scheme to keep track of what ends go
where.
About Securing Fragile Contents
Use proper, sturdy boxes to prevent damage which can
easily occur.
It is advisable to wrap dishes, china, glasses in
newspaper, tissue or bubble wrap. Although
newspaper provides good padding, it can be a source of
ink residue and require extra cleaning at some point.
Fragile and heavy items should not be placed in the same
container.
Framed pictures and mirrors can be wrapped in cardboard.
Store these on end rather than flat. Mark these
and other boxes with breakable contents, "Fragile".
Keep in mind that although you may thoroughly pad the
sides of boxes, a firm up and down jolt while in transit
can cause much damage to fragile items, such as a stack
of dishes, inside the box.
Making the Most of Your Space
Make a plan before hand try to leave a centre aisle down
the unit to easily access most contents in storage.
If storing furniture and cabinets with drawers, take
advantage of the space in these by storing silverware,
small items, collectables, knick-knacks, and such.
These items can be wrapped in blankets, towels or
tablecloths. Of course if necessary, you can
retain clothing in these hollows. In addition to
the likes of dressers, cabinets, buffets, trunks and so
on, large appliances serve to provide ideal packing
cases for items like blankets, linen, towels, clothing
and so on.
Store more valuable items in behind other items to help
conceal them.
If you frequently access your storage unit consider
placing items you are more likely to need up front.
You may find that freestanding shelves will help you
organize your space and contents.
Tables and bed frames will pack easier when disassembled
and allow for more storage space. Individual pieces
should be labeled for easier assembly, while the
hardware can be placed in bags and identified
accordingly.
Extra Things to Take Note Of
• Wrapping items in
plastic can cause moisture retention.
• Cleaning
appliances before storage is a good idea. Keep the
doors slightly ajar to prevent mildew.
• Clothing and
draperies will retain their original shape if stored on
hangers in wardrobe boxes
• Avoid rusting by
rubbing a small amount of machine oil on items like
metal tools, bicycles, and similar items.
Packing Supplies to Have on Hand
• Sturdy Boxes
• Bubble Wrap
• Newspaper and/or
Tissue
• Packing Tape
• Rope
• Mattress & Sofa &
Chair Covers
• Rubbermaid and
other air tight containers
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