Storage Tips

1. LISTS. First you need to survey what you will be storing and make several lists.
1. List all the large items, which do not require boxing (i.e. Tables, Chairs, Couches, Dresser, etc.)
2. List the items, which will require special boxes or packing (i.e. Pictures/Mirrors, Dishes, Glasses, Hanging clothes, Lamps, Computers, TVs, etc.)
3. List other items, which will require boxing. Estimate how many boxes will be needed for these items (i.e. Books, Records, Bedding, Folded clothes, Shoes, Knickknacks, Toys, etc.)
4. Stereo, TV, Computer equipment should be packed in their original boxes. If not available, then measure each piece and purchase the special boxes you need.
5. Remember that heavy items (books and records) will need to be packed in small boxes, and light or bulky items can go into larger boxes. Paper is heavy.
2. SPACE & BOXES. After completing step one, meet with a storage specialist at N. S. M. S.
1. We will go over the list with you to estimate how much storage space you are going to need.
2. We will make suggestions and show what we think you will need for packing material based on the information in your lists.
3. Supplies you will need other than boxes.
1. Tape (1 - 55 ft. roll per 10 boxes)
2. Tape Gun
3. Wrapping Paper
4. Labels and/or Markers
3. PREPARING.
1. Make sure the upholstered furniture gets a good vacuuming to remove any crumbs.
2. Don’t forget to check the pockets of the clothes and jackets as you pack.
3. Polish the wood furniture to help avoid moisture damage.
4. Make an inventory of any electronics and valuable items prior to storing. Don’t forget paintings and antiques.
5. Photographs are an excellent way to record the items and the condition they were in prior to storage. Put it all in a folder and keep this with you.
6. When you disassemble large furniture, tape large pieces like legs or shelves, together. Put the screws, pins, nut bolts, etc. into a plastic bag and tape it to the furniture.
4. PACKING. This is the most important step in storage process. It will determine how your property does while in storage.
1. Make sure you have plenty of extra stuffing material for the leftover spaces in the boxes (i.e. newsprint, Styrofoam peanuts, bubble wrap, or small towels). Boxes on top may start to lean overtime. Ensure the boxes are full, so they will not allow the top to droop down on one side.
2. Have a marker handy to list the box contents and the room it will be going into.
3. Kitchen: All dinnerware, glassware and baking dishes should be packed with wrapping paper individually and placed in dish barrels with the heavier pieces on the bottom and more fragile pieces on top. Small appliances, such as hand mixers, toasters, etc., can be packed in the top of the same box.
4. Do not store food. Packaged food will attract pests. Can may freeze, expand or leak.
5. Dining room: China & crystal should be wrapped in bubble wrap and packed in a dish barrel. Pack small figurines and plastic ware on top of the china & crystal.
6. Clothes: Dresses, Suits, Coats and other items on hangers will store easily in wardrobe boxes. Folded clothes pack well in Medium boxes. If clothes are going to remain in storage for an indefinite period of time, then you should first line the inside of the box with a clean garbage bag so that it can be sealed shut with a desiccant bag to absorb the moisture from the clothes inside. This will help prevent the mildew smell due to moisture sealed in the box.
7. Books and Records should be packed in 12 x 16 x 12 boxes, as theses are heavy items. To help prevent mildewing, line the box with a plastic bag, drop a desiccant bag inside, and seal it after it is filled.
8. Refrigerator and Deep Freezer: Defrost the freezers 2-3 weeks before moving. In the last 5-7 days, empty the deep freezer and leave it open to dry thoroughly. In the last 2-3 days, wipe it out with week chlorine solution allow it to air-dry. If possible, store with the doors open. If the doors are closed, then place a box of baking soda inside, after it is placed in the storage unit.
9. Mattress and Box Springs: Pack in mattress bags at a minimum and then into boxes, if you have them.
10. Finally, all other small lose items should be boxed to prevent them from getting damaged or dirty during moving. All boxes need to have the lids closed to keep dirt out and allow for stacking. Tape all box seams, top and bottom, in an ”H” pattern.
5. GENERAL STORAGE UNIT TIPS.
1. Place boxes on pallets or lay down 2 by 4 boards, so that air can circulate around them.
2. Place mothballs around the inside perimeter of your unit, to deter pests. Never put them inside boxes or plastic bins.
3. If you create a space about 24 inches in the middle of the unit, you will be able to carry a box out.
4. Put more valuable items in the back of your unit.
5. Consider which items you may need first (beds & bed frames) and place those at the front of your unit. These will probably be the last things that you packed or seasonal clothing. You don't want to remove half of your unit to get at them.
6. When you are putting the furniture in your unit, it is a good idea to cover it with cloth/plastic sheets or tarps, as this will keep most of the dust off of it. We sell furniture pads, but you can use old bed sheets or blankets.
6. CHECK YOUR STORAGE.
1. At least once per month, visit your unit.
2. Should you find anything wrong, let us know ASAP, so we can correct it.
3. We want our customers to be happy and their stored goods to be safe and sound.

Your business is appreciated and we would like to help you make it a good moving experience.