Guidelines to keep in mind as you pack for storage:

• To aid in stacking, use same-size boxes when possible.

• Avoid storing items in plastic bags as they are less sturdy and could trap moisture.

• Fill each box completely to prevent the top or sides from crushing. If your box is filled with odd-shaped or loose items like glassware or toys, fill the open spaces with crumpled paper, bubble wrap or other packing material.

• Don’t fill boxes too full. This may cause them to burst.

• Don’t make boxes too heavy to move. Use larger boxes for things that don’t weigh much and smaller ones for the heavy stuff.

• Use the right type of box or packing crate. For instance, use a heavy-duty box for your books as this is less likely to break than a standard box. You still need to be careful not to overfill it, though. Cell kits may work best for stemware or knick-knacks. Wardrobe boxes allow you to hang up clothing and fabrics while in storage.

• Criss-cross masking tape across the face of mirrors or glass-covered art.

• Store framed mirrors, photographs and artwork vertically rather than flat.

• Label boxes clearly and on more than one side. Consider providing a general description like ‘kitchen goods’ and then providing a short inventory such as ‘potholders, towels, aprons, silverware’ so that no one opens this kitchen box when they need the pots and pans. Be sure to mark boxes full of breakables as ‘fragile.’

• Take apart items like bed frames and tables, and remove lampshades from lamps.

• Cover furniture with sheets or tarps to protect them from stains, tears and scratches.

• Place heavy items on the bottom of your storage unit.

• Place boxes of fragile items on top of other boxes.

• Consider the environment where you plan to store your valuables. Will it be very hot or cold? Consider renting a climate controlled storage room for items that could be damaged by extreme temperatures or humidity. This includes things like software, paper, electronics or clothing.

• When choosing a storage unit, factor in a little more room than your belongings take up in order to allow space for you to walk between stacks of items. This will help you to find what you need after you store it. Leave a little room between the walls and the stored goods to improve ventilation.
  
  
• Take a little time to plan and organize as you pack. This should make it easier to find things in the future and less likely that anything will get damaged during a move or while in storage.

(A 12 by 12 storage building or storage shed = 144 sq feet  at 8' height = 1152 cu ft)     (A 5 by 5 = 225 cu ft)     (A 8 by 8 = 512 cu ft)

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