STORAGE TIPS

Packing and Storage Tips for Wilkesboro, NC

Tips for Making Storage Easier

• Keep Items Off the Floor – Use pallets, shelving, plywood, or 2x4s to elevate your belongings and allow air circulation underneath your items.
• Plan Your Layout – Arrange your unit before moving everything in. Leave a walkway to the back of the unit and place frequently used items near the front for easy access.
• Organize with Shelving & Labels – Use freestanding shelves and label boxes on all sides. Keep an inventory list so you can quickly find what you need.
• Pack Boxes Properly – Avoid overfilling boxes or making them too heavy to lift. Place heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter boxes on top to prevent damage.
• Protect Your Belongings – Cover furniture with moving pads, sheets, or light blankets. Use bubble wrap or unprinted paper for fragile items and clearly label delicate boxes.
• Disassemble Large Items – Take apart furniture such as tables and bed frames to save space. Label parts and store hardware in marked bags for easy reassembly.
• Store Electronics Carefully – Label cords with matching stickers to simplify setup later. Whenever possible, use original packaging for electronics.
• Prepare Appliances – Clean and dry appliances before storage. Leave doors slightly open to help prevent mildew.
• Maximize Space – Store couches upright, stack chairs seat-to-seat, use drawers and appliance interiors for smaller items, and place furniture pads between stacked pieces.
• Store Specialty Items Correctly – Keep mattresses elevated and wrapped, store mirrors and artwork upright, pack books flat, and protect metal tools with a small amount of machine oil to prevent rust.
• Use Proper Containers – Plastic storage bins with secure lids are great for organization and stacking. Keep valuable items toward the back of your unit for added privacy.
• Check Your Unit Regularly – Visit your unit periodically to make sure everything remains in good condition.
• Consider Storage Insurance – If your belongings are valuable enough to store, they are worth protecting with insurance coverage.

Items to Avoid When Using Self Storage

• Do not use plastic coverings directly on belongings, as they can trap moisture.
• Do not store food, deer corn, or animal feed, as these items may attract pests.
• Do not store hazardous materials, toxins, flammable items, paint, oil, gasoline, or other unsafe materials.
• Do not pack boxes too heavy, especially when storing books or dense items.
• Do not rely solely on homeowners or renters insurance—ask about storage insurance options for added protection.
• Do not share your gate code, password, or access information with unauthorized individuals.
• Do not use printed newspaper for wrapping, as ink may transfer onto your belongings.
• Always clean and prepare appliances before placing them in storage.