Follow the guide below to keep your belongings protected and make your move-in go smoother than ever.
- Plan your storage space, even before you arrive at your unit. Place items you need to access frequently in the vehicle first so that they’ll be at the front of your unit when you unload. Allow for walkways between stored items so that you don’t have to climb over boxes to access belongings.
- Make an inventory of your stored items and keep it in a safe place.
- Use uniform sized boxes to make stacking easier. Be sure they’re strong enough to hold 25-30 pounds, and avoid putting too much into each box. These steps will help the boxes keep their shape long-term.
- List the contents of each box on all four sides. Then number your boxes and seal them with masking tape or glued paper tape.
- Stack lighter boxes on top of heavier boxes so that the heavier boxes don’t crush your lighter boxes.
- Dishes and glasses should be wrapped in packaging paper, placed in dish pack boxes, and stacked on top of other items.
- Furniture with drawers can be utilized as additional storage space for knick knacks, china, silverware, and other small items. Wrap belongings in tablecloths, towels, or blankets to prevent breakage.
- Larger appliances make excellent packing cases for blankets, towels, tablecloths, and clothes.
- Pictures and mirrors should be wrapped in mirror crates, marked “fragile,” and stacked on end.
- Place your items on pallets or place a tarp on your unit’s floor to protect against dampness. Any concrete floor can become cold and damp, which may affect your belongings if left alone.
- Tables with removable legs should be taken apart to save space.
- Cover stuffed furniture with dust covers to protect against dust and dirt.
- Sofas and loveseats can be stored on end to save floor space. Always place a protective, waterproof cover on the floor, under the end of the furniture. Cushions should be wrapped in plastic and placed on top.
- If you stand mattresses on end, be sure to prop them up so they stand straight. Otherwise, they may get bent out of shape and become lumpy. It’s also a good idea to lift them six inches off the floor with a pallet or similar item.
- Shovels, hoes, rakes, and hoses can be stored together in empty trash cans. Stack extra cans inside one another.
- Caution: It is against the law to store materials that are hazardous or combustible, such as gasoline, solvents, paint, etc. Drain all remaining gasoline from lawn mowers, power tools, snowmobiles, boats, and any other items before storing them.
- Place rodent traps (NOT poison) in your unit. Bugs can find their way into boxes throughout your move or enter through tiny cracks near the unit door.
- We sometimes have a very humid temperature here in Michigan, which is why we suggest using a humidity absorber to reduce the risk of mold or mildew on your items.
By following the tips above, you’ll complete your move and protect your belongings for long term storage. If you have any other questions at all, please feel free to contact us. We’re here to help!
