• Make a list of all the packing supplies you will need.  You will need things like boxes, tape, bubble wrap, marking pens, damp rid (or some sort of non-electric moisture absorber), rope and pallets. Try to use boxes that are a uniform size, they are easier to stack (remember; keep the heavy boxes on the bottom and the light boxes on top).
• Visit our facility and bring a list of what you are going to be storing so that the Store Manager can help you determine the correct size for your needs.
• If you are using a moving company, find out what size truck they will be using.  This is valuable in determining if your unit will be accessible to that truck.

Helpful hints to make the packing and storing of your belongings a breeze!

• Use furniture drawers to hold delicate items. Wrap them in bubble wrap or newspaper.
• When packing toys or smaller objects, remember to fill boxes completely, stuffing open areas with plain newspaper to prevent collapsing when stacked. If you are storing a lot of packing boxes in your unit, try to fill them to the top, even if it’s just with padding and old, crumpled newspapers.  Boxes that are only half-filled tend to collapse if anything is placed on them.
• Be careful not to store anything perishable (such as food that is not permanently sealed). 
• Under no circumstances should you keep anything flammable or combustible in your storage unit.  This means no gasoline, oil, cleaning fluids, or paint thinner.  If you are storing any machinery that runs on gas, drain the tank before you store it.
• When storing lawn and garden equipment, drain any fluids prior to storage in order to avoid corrosive damage. 
• If you are putting any metal objects into storage – like lawnmowers or file cabinets – it is best to treat them with rust protector first, or at least wipe them down with an oily rag.
• Use trash cans to store shovels, hoes and rakes.
• Always use high quality locks on your unit.                                                          208 Boat & Self Storage sells locks on-site; ask the store manager for details.
• The humidity in your self-storage unit can cause your furniture to warp and your appliances to mildew.  Leaving a space between your belongings and the unit’s wall allows for air to circulate within the unit.  Laying plastic sheeting on the floor and stacking boxes on top of wooden pallets can prevent condensation damage.  Also use old linens or other fabrics, instead of plastic, to protect your belongings from dust.
• When storing delicate heirlooms, use specially constructed boxes, such as wardrobe boxes and utilize a non-electric moisture absorber.
• Store furniture carefully on boards or pallets.
• Cover mattresses and store them flat on level surfaces.                                        Covers can be purchased at the office.
• Store small items like pots and pans in large appliances, such as stoves or refrigerators.
• Break down items (such as table legs) and store large furniture (like tabletops and sofas) on end to save space.
• Use protective covers and treat wood surfaces before storing.
• When storing business files, label all boxes and construct aisles so files are easily seen and accessible.
• Clean furniture, boxes and the storage unit of all food and perishables.
• Our facility has a state of the art security system.  However, it is still wise to take a few precautions of your own against theft.  Pack your storage unit so that your most valuable items are at the back, and purchase a high quality padlock to put on the door.

Do:

• Use pallets, 2 x 4's, plywood, anything that will keep your items off the floor of the unit.
• Utilize all the space in your unit.  Make a plan as to how you are going to arrange your items.  A good plan will save you the time of having to rearrange your unit.
• Leave small walkways between the boxes and furniture in your storage unit so you can easily get to the items you want without having to move anything around.
• Use freestanding shelves to help organize your unit.
  Label the boxes on all six sides and keep a list for easy reference. This will save you time if you have to look for something in particular.  When packing boxes fill them without making them too heavy to lift.  Always put the heavier boxes on the bottom and the lighter ones on top of the heavier ones. This will prevent boxes from being crushed.  Keep boxes off the floor.
• Be sure to store frequently used items at the front of the unit to avoid having to search for them.
• To protect your items cover them with moving pads, sheets, or light blankets.
• Be sure to check your unit once a month.
• Disassemble items such as tables, bed frames, etc. (This will save space.)  Wrap and label all pieces for an easier time when you have to reassemble them.  Put all hardware in bags and mark the bags accordingly.
• When you disassemble electronics, such as computers, stereos, things that have numerous cords, place small colored stickers on the cord and the same color sticker where the cord goes.  This will save you the hassle of trying to figure out what goes where when it comes time to reassemble your electronics.  If possible, use the original boxes to store your electronics and other items.
• Make sure that all appliances are clean and dry before storing them.  Leave appliances slightly ajar to prevent mildew.
• If it is possible store couches on end.  Stack chairs seat to seat.  Use the inside of appliances and drawers to store smaller items. When stacking furniture use paper pads in between the items to avoid scratching.
• Store mirrors and paintings on end, not flat.
• To prevent rusting rub a small amount of machine oil on metal tools, bicycles, and equipment.  Drain and clean all debris from all equipment before you store them.
• When wrapping collectibles or anything breakable, tape it after you wrap it.  This should avoid mistaking them for excess paper to fill the box.  Use bubble wrap or unprinted paper to wrap breakables.  Group similar items together and mark the boxes accordingly.
• Clothing and draperies should be stored in wardrobe boxes, on hangers, to retain their original shapes.
• Purchase the insurance.  If your belongings are worth storing, they are worth insuring.
• Rubbermaid containers are great to store your items. They have tight fitting lids and stack easily.  Keep the more valuable items in the rear of the unit.                        This will prevent others from seeing them when you are in your unit.
• Keep out of season clothes accessible, you may have your belongings in storage longer than anticipated.
• Be aware of your surroundings when you are in your unit.                                         If you see a potential problem or anything suspicious alert the store manager.
• If you’re storing a refrigerator in your unit leave the door ajar.                              This will prevent mold from growing inside.

Don't:

• Do not use plastic to cover your belongings.  It retains moisture.
• Do not store any food items.  This will prevent any unwanted guests.
• Do not pack your boxes so that they are too heavy to carry.                               Books are especially heavy.
• Do not assume that your homeowners or renters insurance will cover your belongings while in storage.  Purchase the insurance.
• Do not give out your password, gate code or any information to any one that is not listed as having "Access".
• Do not use printed newspaper.  The ink may smudge and get on your items.
• Do not forget to clean appliances before you store them.
• Do not store any toxins or flammables.  Do not store paint, oil, or gasoline.
• Self-Storage Tips
• Moving and storage are two sides of the same coin.  Chances are if you are moving, you have to put some of your belongings in storage.  Unless you are paying the moving company extra to use their storage building, chances are you are going to have to rent a self-storage unit.