At Texas Storage & Moving in Lufkin, Texas we want to help you with all of your self storage needs. We often have customers inquiring about self storage tips and best practices. From how to make the most use of the space to packing tips and tricks you will find some valuable information below. This information is intended to help you get the most value and peace of mind for storing your household belongings.
We are ready to help you with all of your storage needs so give us a call at 936-699-6000 we will be happy to answer your self storage questions.
Self Storage Tips and Tricks
Before you begin to pack, make a list of the packing supplies you will need. Some of the common things most people need are boxes, tape, bubble wrap, packing peanuts, Sharpies, rope, drop cloths and mattress covers.
When disassembling furniture make sure to keep all of the parts together and labeled so you can find them and get them put back together.
Keep the weight of your packed boxes to no more than 30 lbs. This will make them much easier and safer to handle.
Electronics like computers, TVs, sound systems and similar items require special care when preparing to pack. You should use a system of stickers and or tape to label everything as you unplug all the cables. Try to keep all the cords, cables and parts together so you can find them later. If you have properly labeled everything it will be much easier to put your electronics back together when you are ready.
Always stack your boxes by weight and size keeping the heaviest boxes on the bottom. This will help reduce the risk of your boxes falling over on you or your valuables.
Use a labeling system with your boxes. For example label them by number and keep a master list of each box by number and content. Be sure you number all sides of the box so the numbers will be visible no matter how you stack them. Also, don’t forget to mark boxes as (Fragile) where needed.
You can gain extra storage space by using the drawers of your furniture to store things like linens, clothes, pictures etc.
Don’t forget to clean your appliances inside and out before you store them. Also, leave the doors slightly open so you won’t be greeted by a foul odor later. You can also store linens and things inside to free up some extra space.
Be mindful of using newspapers for wrapping items for storage. The inks from the paper can smudge and transfer to the things you are trying to protect.
When wrapping collectibles and other breakable things tape them before you put them in the box. This will help make sure you don’t throw out something you wanted to keep thinking it was just stuffing for the box.
If you are storing a vacuum cleaner be sure to remove and throw away the bag before you store it.
For you nicer clothes like suits, sport coats, dresses and other delicate clothing items store those in a wardrobe carton. This way they can hang naturally and be properly protected from dust.
When storing wooden furniture be sure to wax the surfaces and cover with a sheet or cotton cloth to protect them from dust and being scratched.
When packing a box put the heavier items on the bottom. Also, fill the box to the top using packing materials as needed. Full boxes are less likely to collapse when stacked.
Before you begin to fill your storage space think about the items you might need sooner rather than later. Also, try to leave room for an aisle down the middle. If you need to retrieve items before you are ready to move everything you will be glad you planned ahead.
Use sturdy boxes that are clean and free from any previous moisture or smells.
Seal up each box with packing tape to help keep the dust out of your boxes.
If you are storing a couch try to stand it on end to free up some space. But, if it is a sofa bed keep it sitting normal so you don’t damage the fold out bed. Cover your sofa with drop clothes or a sofa bag.
If you are storing wool clothing be sure to pack them with cedar or moth boths to help protect them from moths.
Proper planning and preparation helps to reduce stress and raise satisfaction while moving and storing your belongings. Drop by our convenient location on Brentwood Drive in Lufkin for more information. We have several sizes of storage units including climate controlled and non climate controlled storage units available. We also have a selection of packing supplies for sale.