Helpful Hints to make the packing and storing of your belongings a breeze!
Packing Tips - What's the difference between Newsprint (or packing paper) and newspaper? Newsprint is unprinted newspaper. Old Newspapers have been printed and the ink will come off and stain the things you’re wrapping, possibly permanently. Don’t use old newspaper!
- Close boxes securely using Strong Tape. Use professional packing tape (such as pressure sensitive plastic tape, clear or tan). Masking tape is not strong enough to support the weight of a fully packed carton. Tape all cartons closed on the top and bottom --don’t just fold the end flaps closed.
- It’s NOT recommended to use used boxes, like those available from some local markets, for packing. Stains and food residues in these boxes can ruin your goods and attract insects if you use them for storage. Use new cartons whose strength has not been compromised by humidity or prior use wear and tear.
- Labeling. To minimize confusion and to make retrieving items from storage easier, keep these important points in mind: Mark each box with the name of the room and a brief description of contents (you’ll appreciate this when you’re looking for that important something!) Mark all sides of the box. Mark fragile boxes. Identify the “Top” of fragile boxes if the contents might be damaged by storing the box on the sides or bottom. Pack fragile items in smaller boxes.
- Don’t over-pack the box. Check recommended weight limits for boxes.
Storage Tips - Place the heaviest boxes on the bottom, lighter boxes on top to avoid crushing bottom boxes.
- Store items you’ll need most often at the front of the unit.
- Use dresser drawers to hold clothing or delicate items. Wrap breakables in bubble wrap or packing paper.
- Hang clothes and draperies in wardrobe boxes.
- When storing lawn and garden equipment, drain any fluids prior to storage in order to avoid corrosive damage.
- Use trash cans to store shovels, hoes and rakes.
- Tape or tie bed rails together. Mark the pieces for easier assembly later. Put all hardware in zip lock bags and tape to the furniture in an area that would not be damaged by the tape (e.g., inside a drawer or on the back of a mirror).
- Place covers or plastic bags on mattresses to keep them clean during storage & store them upright on level surfaces. We sell mattress bags, if you need.
- Disassemble as many things as possible. Break down items (such as table legs) and store large furniture (like tabletops and sofas) on end to save space. Stack chairs seat to seat.
- When stacking furniture use paper pads or blankets in between items to avoid scratching.
- Make sure that all appliances are clean and dry before storing them. Leave appliances slightly ajar to prevent mildew.
- Insure your goods while in storage. Check with your insurance agent to see if your renter’s or homeowner’s insurance will cover your items in storage.
- Because screws, nails, or hanging anything on the walls is prohibited, use freestanding shelves to help organize your unit.
- DO NOT store combustibles such as old paint, cleaning fluids, gasoline, propane tanks, etc. Make certain all fuel is drained or burned out of gasoline powered equipment. Throw away anything that could possibly cause a fire.
- DO NOT store food, perishables, or any item which could attract rodents or pests.
- Storage of TOXIC WASTE, HAZARDOUS MATERIALS, EXPLOSIVES, FLAMMABLES, FIREARMS, LIVE ANIMALS, DRUGS, or any illegal or stolen items is prohibited.
Packing materials are available in our office- - boxes in several sizes, tape, bubble wrap, newsprint, shrink wrap, padlocks, sofa covers and more. Please consult our staff professionals for more tips on smart packing!
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