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Self-Storage Info & Tips

 

Planning & Packing For Storage Safety

Make a list of packing materials needed such as boxes, bubble wrap, tape, marking pens, rope, drop cloths, mattress and furniture covers, etc. Mark “Fragile” on all boxes with breakables.

Plan your storage space carefully and allow for walkways so you can get to things more easily. Label boxes by numbers - have the master list separate from your storage space... (and don't write on the box what its contents are).  Label each box as you seal it.

It is more convenient to store frequently used items at the front of your storage unit to avoid having to search for them. Keep your out-of-season clothes accessible, you may have your belongings in storage longer than anticipated.

 

Thinking Ahead for Safe Storage

  • Some people find it is better to put more valuable items towards the back of your self-storage unit. Your homeowner or renter insurance may not cover your belongings while in a public self-storage unit so check to see if you need to purchase insurance.

  • Make yourself an inventory of your stored items and keep it in a safe place at home or in a safe deposit box.

  • Be sure your appliance's are thoroughly clean and dry. Keep refrigerator and freezer doors slightly open. To save storage space, you can opt to fill interiors of appliance items.

  • Remove and discard vacuum cleaner bags so you don't have the smell or any bugs you vacuumed up causing problems in your stored items.

  • You can choose to use your furniture with drawers as storage places for pictures, knickknacks, china, silverware, small items, etc. Wrap them in table clothes, towels, or blankets or packing papers to prevent breakage.

  • It is recommended by professional movers that you store mattresses and box springs on long edges. Wrap them for protection and elevate off of the floor. Use pallets, 2x4’s, plywood... anything that will keep items off the floor of the storage unit. It is not advised to lean items against the walls of the storage unit.

  • Disassemble your bed frames and mark all of the pieces so that they are easy to put back together.

  •  Pictures and mirrors should be wrapped in cardboard and marked “FRAGILE.” Stand them straight up... never flat to avoid breakage.

  • Dishes and glasses should be wrapped in paper and packed in sturdy boxes. Stack these boxes on top.

  • Tables having removable legs can be taken apart to save space.

  • When packing your books for storage, pack them in small cartons that weigh no more than 30 lbs. Books can get so heavy! Alternate bindings and cushion them with wadded packing paper.

  • When you disassemble electronics such as computers and stereos (items that have numerous cables) for storage, place small colored stickers on the cable and the same color sticker where the cable goes. If possible, use the original packaging for electronic items.

  • Shovels, hoes, rakes, and hoses can be stored together in empty trash cans and tack your extra cans inside one another in storage.

  • It's a good idea to treat surfaces of antiques and other wood furniture before storing. Wax wood furniture and use sheets or cotton cloth to cover furniture.

  • Do not use printed newspaper to pack with. The ink may smudge off on your items.

  • Never store anything in sealed plastic bags, especially in non-air conditioned storage because it is possible that the humidity will cause damage to your goods. Leave a small space between the goods stored and the storage unit’s walls.

  • Do not stack heavy or folded objects where they could shift or collapse when you move or need access.

  • Pack appliances in factory boxes for storage when possible. Cushion them with wadded (not shredded) packing paper. Shredded paper can get into the machines and cause damage. Wedge doors open while keeping appliances in storage.

  • Clothing that ordinarily hangs in a closet should be packed in a wardrobe carton.

CAUTION

It is against the law to store materials that are hazardous or combustible such as gasoline, cleaning fluids, paint, etc.  Drain all gasoline from lawnmowers, power tools, boats, snowmobiles, etc. before storing them. Do not store food items which could attract rodents or pests.

 

Call us with your storage questions  (503) 982-2700

Storage rental fees can be paid by cash, check, money order, or VISA, MasterCard & Discover credit cards. Advantage Self-Storage accepts payments by mail, credit card payments over the phone, office walk-ins and after hour payment drop box.