PACKING AND STORING TIPS

All-Stor wants you to have a great self-storage experience! Here are some helpful tips on how to handle every step of the storage process.

All Stor New Ulm -Boxes
New Ulm Storage - Boxes

PACKING TIPS

Be prepared. Gather all the materials and supplies you need before you start: boxes, tape, packing materials, markers, furniture covers, and so on.

  • Label, label, label. Mark every box with its contents, and keep a written inventory as you pack.
  • Use the right box. Use large boxes for light items (linens, pillows, lamps) and smaller boxes for heavier items (books, CDs).
  • Take care. Pack small things carefully into boxes with appropriate packing materials. Resist the temptation to toss things into a garbage bag; they risk damage from knocks and bumps and mildew from lack of ventilation.
  • This side up. If you combine different weights of items in one box, always put the heavier things on the bottom and mark “this side up.”
  • Don’t overload. Packed boxes should only weigh as much as you can lift without straining—for most people, less than 40 pounds.
  • Tape it up. Make sure all your packed boxes are securely sealed with packing tape, with the tops flat (to make it easier to stack them).
  • Hang it up. Use a wardrobe box to hang clothing, draperies and other fabrics that need to breathe and be kept crease-free.
  • Break it down. Disassemble bed frames and keep them together with tape or twine. Use small plastic bags to store screws and bolts and tape them to the frame they belong to.
  • Respect breakables. Wrap dishes and glassware individually, and pad the box with packing paper or bubble wrap.


STORAGE TIPS

  • Plan ahead. Keep your frequently used items at the front of your unit where you can get at them easily.
  • Map it. As you move into your storage space, make a simple drawing that shows where items are placed.
  • Cover up. Protect your furniture, including mattresses and box springs, with covers designed for the item.
  • Allow for ventilation. Help prevent mold and mildew problems by not packing items directly against the wall. Leave an inch or so of space wherever possible to promote air flow.
  • Do not move in the rain. Damp or wet storage items create a habitat for mold and mildew and will cause damage to your goods if not dried out before storing. If you end up getting caught in the rain, be sure to cover your items on the trip to protect against any future damage. Remember, cardboard absorbs moisture and plastic traps condensation, both of which promote mold and mildew.
  • Think vertical. Make best use of your storage area by stacking to the ceiling, working from heaviest items on the bottom to lightest items on top.
  • Don’t over-reach. Use a stool to stack and reach items stored above your head.
  • Optimize your space. Break down any furniture that has removable legs, leaves or other parts. Stack chairs seat-to-seat with towels or blankets between them.
  • Multi-task. Use your refrigerator or other appliances to store things like linens—even books or CDs. Wedge the door of any appliance open so air can circulate inside them.
  • Tool up. Shovels, hoes, rakes and hoses can be stored together in empty trash cans. Stack extra cans inside one another. Treat any garden tools and other metal items, like bicycles, with a rust inhibitor, such as machine oil, before storing them. Clean before storing them.
  • Clear the air. If you’re storing a gas-powered lawnmower or leaf blower, prevent unpleasant odors by draining the tank before you put it in your unit.