storage tips
As you pack your possessions for moving or storage...
  • Choose sturdy boxes that will protect their contents, and won't collapse when stacked.
  • Pack all boxes to capacity. Under-filled boxes are more likely to get crushed...while overloaded boxes may tear or collapse, dumping their contents.
  • All boxes should weigh about 25–30 lbs. each. Anything heavier and you're asking for injuries or damaged contents.
  • Label each box with its destination ("Bedroom", "Kitchen", "Storage Unit") clearly marked on all sides...and arrows pointing to the top of the box
  • Wrap all glassware, dishes and other fragile items individually in towels, packing material or newspaper.
  • Buy or rent garment boxes for your hanging clothes.
  • NEVER pack explosives, flammables or combustibles (such as gasoline or paint), food of any kind, liquids or pets. These could cause damage...
  • If you're renting a truck/van...load it so that the items you need first—such as kitchen and bathroom items—will come off the truck/van FIRST.
As you plan to put items in storage...
  • Rent only the amount of space you need and pack it full. Place items you may need to access often towards the front. Allow for walkways. To allow air to circulate, leave a bit of space between your items and the walls of your unit.
  • Make a list of the items you're putting in storage and keep that inventory in a separate, safe place at home or in your safe deposit box.
  • Use same-size boxes for easy stacking. Stack lighter boxes on top of heavier ones.
  • Clearly mark "fragile" on all boxes with breakables—mirrors, pictures, photos, glasses, dishes. Mirrors and pictures should be packed in flat cartons, and stood upright (not lying flat).
  • Use protective covers on furniture and large appliances. Cardboard, blankets or sheets work well; plastic can trap moisture. If you're storing a refrigerator or freezer, make sure it's completely clean inside, then store it with the door ajar. This will help prevent mold or a stale smell inside.
  • Store sofas, loveseats and mattresses "on end" to save floor space. "Prop up" any items that might fall over.
  • Avoid placing heavy or sharp objects on top of upholstered furniture.
  • Remove the legs of any tables or beds equipped with detachable legs to gain space.
  • Protect metal items such as file cabinets and lawn equipment by treating them with a rust protector, or wiping them with an oily rag.
  • Use an empty trash can to store shovels, rakes, hoses and other yard tools.
  • Do NOT store anything combustible or flammable, including gasoline, paint, thinner, solvent, fertilizer.
 
Moving Tips
Save all your last bills so you have the information you need (account numbers, customer service phone numbers) to easily notify utilities, credit card companies, banks and other financial institutions of your change of address.

Click here for more tips.
3950 Bethany Road
Mason, Ohio 45040
513.229.7772
info@masonselfstorage.com