Moving Guide

The most important factor for any move is: Be Prepared. Get rid of unnecessary clutter before you go. Host a garage sale or donate goods to your favorite charity. Dispose of as much trash as possible before the big day.

A moving rule of thumb: If it is not a piece of furniture – put it in a box. Any item that can be put in a box should be placed in a box, including electronics.

Label your boxes in detail, not just the room but the contents too. Label the boxes on the sides, not on the top. Tape all boxes on top and bottom.

Do not use printed newspaper. The ink may smudge and get on your items.

All appliances, stereos, computers, printers, fax machines, televisions, speakers, etc. should be disconnected. All cords should be removed and packed or taped to the item.

Empty, defrost, dry and disconnect refrigerators and freezers. Any items not being moved should be clearly marked.

Remove all items such as money, medication, vital documents, jewelry, guns, etc.


Packing & Storage Guide

Packing Tips:

  • Fill boxes to capacity. Partially full or bulging boxes may collapse or tip over while stored.
  • Label your cartons and goods. This will make accessing items much easier.
  • Books and documents: Pack books flat to protect spines; use small boxes to avoid cartons that are too heavy to move easily. Put heavy items on bottom….
  • Dishes and glassware: Glass items should be individually wrapped; use blank wrapping paper for best results; “nest” cups and bowls, stand plates and platters; fill air pockets with wrapping paper or foam peanuts; don’t put breakables under other boxes.
  • Mirrors, windows, screens: Wrap all glass well; store on edge, not flat.
  • Lamps: Pack lamp shades separately; use blank paper to wrap lamp shades and other property that may be damaged by ink stains from regular newsprint.
  • Appliances and electronics: Clean appliances thoroughly. Refrigerators and freezers must be defrosted and dry and washing machines completely drained. Remove doors of appliances and store separately; desiccants (drying agents) should be used and containers checked and emptied regularly. Take apart lawn mowers and snow blowers, making sure all the fuel is completely drained.
  • Bicycles: Wipe a few drops of oil on bicycles and tools to prevent rusting, then store these items away from furniture to avoid oil staining.
  • Clothes: Wardrobe boxes allow you to store your clothing on hangers. Shoes can be stored in the bottom of the wardrobe boxes, while folded clothing can be stored in boxes or dresser drawers.
  • Put pallets or a grid of 2’ x 3’s on the unit floor to give better air circulation under goods; leave a walkway/aisle to the rear of the unit.Don’t over pack a unit.


Storage Tips:

  • Do not store hazardous or toxic materials or flammable liquids or gases OR foods. If you are not sure you should store something, ask the staff!
  • Do not store any combustibles! Do not store items such as propane tanks, old paint, cleaning fluids, gasoline or other things that might create or intensify a fire. Why risk your possessions just to keep a few cents worth of leftovers?
  • Remember, you alone are responsible for providing insurance on your property. You must buy insurance coverage yourself and you must pay the premium yourself; the operator does not insure your goods.
  • Visit your self-storage space on occasion to check the condition of your possessions; occasionally move or shift your goods so that you see all sides of them. Report any problems immediately.
  • When moving out of storage, give at least 10 days written notice. Take everything and don’t leave any trash. Leave the unit in broom-clean condition. Remove your lock.
  • If storing bedding, clothing or furniture covered in fabric or property that may be affected by changes in temperature, it may be wiser to rent climate controlled space to provide a better storage environment for your personal possessions. Be certain that everything stored is dry, as any moisture may cause mildew. If you move during rain, dry off your goods before placing them into storage. Do not store anything that is wet; moisture is bad for virtually all property or goods.