Tips on Storage Unit Packing
By Nick Davis, eHow Contributor
Storage units are perfect for stowing items you don't use on a regular basis or for keeping items temporarily. Similar to packing items for a move from one location to another, packing for a storage unit requires properly labeling your items, securing breakable items and preparing outdoor equipment. With a few tips, you will have your items ready for a storage unit in no time.
Breakable Items
When packing delicate and breakable items, wrap them in newspaper or bubble wrap and place them inside furniture drawers rather than boxes. Do this for any item you don't want broken or pieces missing, including toys, small objects and items that may get crushed in boxes. Pack clothes or pieces of newspaper around the edges of the furniture drawers so items won't shift while traveling in the moving truck or van. When storing family heirlooms, use wardrobe boxes as holders and secure the items in bubble wrap. Cover the wardrobe boxes and the furniture drawers in plastic to prevent dust and other elements from getting in.
Saving Space
Have a lot of pots and pans? Store them in the stove and other appliances instead of packing them in boxes. Place the items in boxes temporarily and then stow them in the appliances after you get to the storage unit. To save space in the storage unit, take apart any tables and chairs before storing and store large furniture pieces like sofas on their sides. Safeguard furniture with protective covers like blankets or plastic. If you have filing cabinets, store business files and supplies in them. Use every space you have to store items.
Storage Unit Preparation
Before storing your items in the unit, place some plastic sheeting or cardboard on the floor for cleanliness. This also will help in sliding boxes and furniture along the floor. If the temperature of the storage unit is an issue, consider placing some moisture absorbers in the unit. You also may want to put some deodorizers and vermin bait in the unit to keep out smells and rodents.
When arranging boxes and items in the storage unit, place those items you want to get to often close to the entrance. Put valuable items like computers, electronic equipment and power tools in the back of the unit. Leave an aisle for walking, and label each box with a description of what's inside. Before you leave the storage unit, lock it with a padlock purchased from the storage unit office or a hardware/retail store. Do not buy a cheap lock; use a name-brand lock.
Outdoor Equipment
When placing outdoor equipment in the storage unit, put it to one side and drain any fluids from mowers, weed cutters or other machines. Don't store paint, chemicals or other combustible items. Store lawn tools in a trash can and avoid putting items in garbage bags. Tie shovels, hoes and racks together.
