Self storage unit packing hints

Preparing items for storage

• Pre-plan your packing so that you can store your goods smoothly.
• Be systematic and go room by room when packing. This makes unpacking easier and allows you to locate and retrieve goods months down the track.
• Don’t strain your back, it’s best to pack heavy items by themselves.
• It’s best to store books flat and not on their spine.
• A full box is a strong box but don’t overdo it because a bulging box is weak and troublesome to stack.

Appliances

• Empty your fridge and freezer before storing. Don’t leave anything inside as shelves and linings can easily be marked and damaged.
• A fridge or freezer should be clean and make sure they’re dry before storage.
• Leave the door slightly ajar and perhaps spray with deodorizer to keep it, and the other items, smelling fresh.

Metal appliances

• The family silver is precious so make sure to wrap it in NON ACID tissue paper or plastic bags to help reduce tarnishing.
• Wipe any chrome or cast iron items with a little machine oil to stop rust.

Breakables and glassware

• Wrap all breakable items separately in tissue or packing paper, box and ensure they are marked “Fragile”.
• Pack breakables in sturdy boxes.
• Stack your plates, saucers and bowls on their sides to prevent any breakage.
• Empty space should be filled with packing paper.
• Avoid cracking mirrors (and 7 years of bad luck!) by wrapping mirrors in cardboard and storing them on their edges. This also applies to picture frames.
• Do not stack any heavy items on top of cartons containing breakables.

Furniture

• Empty the contents of wardrobes, drawers and cupboards to protect them from warping and bending over time.
• Where possible remove the legs from furniture e.g. bed bases, tables etc to avoid damage and save space.
• Place a cover over all furniture, especially sofa’s, recliners and anything of value.
• Wrap up cushions and mattresses in plastic.

Computers

• Computers need special care and the original boxes are the best place to keep them. Bubble-wrap and good quality packing cartons will also do the job.
• Use some packing or linen in the bottom and top of cartons for extra protection and pack out any gaps.
• If you’re unsure about your computer, refer to the manufacturer’s manual, or consult your retailer, especially if storing for longer than six months.

Electrical

• “Handle with care” when it comes to electrical equipment. Use the original boxes for your electrical gear if you still have them.
• Bubble wrap is ideal for wrapping electrical items safely.
• Vinyl lovers, make sure to pack your records on their edges to prevent warping.

Battery operated appliances and toys

• Avoid the possibility of leaking batteries by removing them before packing.

Clothing and apparel

• Keep your clothes in good condition by using naphthalene, mothballs or similar product to protect and maintain them.

Machinery and metallic items

• Drain any fuel and oil from all machinery. This reduces risk of leakage, spillage and damage to other goods in your space.
• Prevent metal items from rusting by wipe the item with a few drops of oil before storing.
• Pack these items away from goods that may be stained such as furniture.

Very important

• Do not store anything COMBUSTIBLE (i.e. paint thinner, gasoline, solvents, paint, etc.)
• Do not store any living things (including plants), or perishable goods (especially food stuffs).
• Empty petrol from mowers, whipper snippers, etc.
• Ensure gas bottles are empty and BBQ or cooking surfaces are clean.
• Avoid the risk of leaky batteries by removing them before you store.
• Never lay paintings or mirrors flat. Stand them up and ensure they are wrapped and marked ‘FRAGILE’.