Chucks Self-Storage wants you to have the best storage experience possible.

In order to make the process a bit easier for you, we figured you’d like to know all the

ins and outs of packing!

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VERY IMPORTANT Protection Tips:

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Self-Storage is a convenient, safe, and inexpensive way to store your belongings. Proper planning will make for an efficient and

cost-effective storage experience. If you plan to frequently use the unit, a larger space may be more convenient than one packed

to capacity. Here are some things to know when packing a temporary self-storage that will minimize your space requirements,

and prevent damage to your possessions:

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HOW TO PACK EFFECTIVELY:

• Plan your storage space. Place items in front that will be accessed frequently.  Allow for walkways. 

• Completely fill each box with your heaviest items on the bottom and lighter items on top.

• Dishes and glasses should be wrapped in packing paper and placed in dish-pack boxes. All glass items should be individually wrapped. Nest cups and bowls. Stand plates, saucers, and platters on edge. Wrapped glasses should be placed near the top of cartons. Fill all pockets with packing material. Label all boxes containing glassware, and do not place heavy items on boxes containing glassware.  Stack these boxes on top.

• List the contents of boxes on all four sides, number the boxes, and seal them with packaging tape.

• Try to keep your boxes in uniform sizes. They are much easier to stack that way.

• Pack books flat to protect their spines. Do not pack fragile items in the same box as books and do not overload.

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

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SECURITY:

• Use a HIGH-QUALITY lock, preferably a “disc lock”, for your unit. They are much harder to break or cut keeping your valuables as safe as possible.

• Make up an inventory of your stored items. Take pictures of very expensive or irreplaceable items. Keep this list in a safe place at home or in a safe deposit box.

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MOISTURE, INSECT, and RODENT PREVENTION:

• Pack your boxes and other items as close together as possible to avoid air condensation/moisture accumulating between them.     Also, leave a small space, even just an inch, between the wall and your storage items to allow for ventilation to prevent mildew.

• Where possible, place textile and leather items in sealed plastic totes to prevent moisture, insect, or rodent damage. 

• Seal large fabric furniture in heavy plastic and seal it with duct tape to keep humidity/dampness /mildew out of the fabric.

• Do not place boxes directly on concrete floors.  Place on pallets, heavy plastic sheeting, or skids to guard against dampness.  Any concrete floor may become cold and damp in winter.

• Bicycles and other metal items will rust over time if not protected. To retard rust, wipe all metal surfaces with a rag containing a few drops of machine oil.

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FURNITURE & APPLIANCES:

• Pictures and mirrors should be wrapped in mirror crates marked “FRAGILE” and stacked on the end.

• Furniture with drawers can be utilized as storage places for knickknacks, china, silverware, and small items. Wrap these items in tablecloths, towels, or blankets to prevent breakage.

• A refrigerator or freezer should be thoroughly dry and stored with its door slightly ajar to avoid mildew. Larger appliances make excellent “packing cases” for blankets, towels, tablecloths, and clothes.

• Make sure that stoves and cooking equipment are cleaned before they are stored so as not to rust metal parts or attract rodents.

• Tables with removable legs should be “broken down” to save space.

• Sofas and loveseats can be stored on end to save floor space. Always place a protective waterproof cover under the end on the floor. Cushions should be wrapped in plastic and placed on top. Cover stuffed furniture with a dust cover.

• If you stand mattresses on end, be sure to “prop” them up. Folding a mattress in half will likely damage it.

• Antique wood furniture should be kept off the concrete to prevent moisture from wicking. Best if wrapped in plastic.