When it comes to storing your goods, it is a good idea to pack your things properly to maintain safe storage of your valuables over the long term. Here are some tips to make sure that you find your goods in perfect condition when you take them out of storage.
Packing your goods
Pack your belongings in good quality boxes.
Pack your boxes completely so that they don’t collapse when stacked. Use bubble wrap or newspaper to fill any empty spaces.
Label boxes on all sides for easy identification. Write “fragile” on boxes that contain breakable items.
Use the same size boxes for easy stacking.
Protect your fragile goods in bubble wrap. Pack similar items in the same box and fill empty spaces with packing peanuts, bubble wrap or newspaper.
Pack books flat to protect their spines.
Thoroughly clean, disinfect and dry refrigerators, freezers, stoves and other appliances.
Clean and dry all electrical equipment before storing in your unit.
Electrical items should be packed in boxes with plenty of protective material and some sachets of silica to prevent dampness.
Keep your boxes light enough to move easily.
Keep a strict inventory.
Packing your unit
Leave walkways between stored items to allow easy access.
Store your frequently used items in the front of the unit.
Dismantle various parts of your furniture to save space.
Wax wooden items with wood varnish before storing to protect damage from moisture.
Stack your boxes high to take full advantage of the space.
Start with large items and heavy boxes, stacking from the back of your unit to the front.
Place the items that you need to get to most often near the front.
Couches (but not beds) can be stored on their ends to save room.
Wrap table legs with bubble wrap before storing.
Always place a protective cover over your soft furnishings.
Ensure that your refrigerator or freezer is thoroughly dry and stored with its doors open for ventilation.
Cover your goods with dust sheets to protect against dust.
Always place heavy items on the bottom and light or awkward items on the top.
Prohibited goods
Items which we have identified as hazardous and/or not suitable for self-storage, and which we do not allow our customers to store in our storage facilities include:
Hazardous, corrosive, radioactive, and toxic materials.
Pollutants, waste or contaminated goods.
Illegal goods.
Living organisms.
Fire hazards, which include flammable liquids and fuels, explosives or unstable chemicals.
Any items which have an offensive odour.
Any items which may be a nuisance to other customers.
Any items which may damage the storage facility in any way.
Perishable goods, such as food.
Any items that need to be in a controlled environment.