Securing and Packing A Storage Unit

Published on 9/29/2020
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The type of lock you use to secure your unit is very important. A good quality lock will have a thick, hardened steel shackle and a 5-pin tumbler. We recommend that you use a disc lock.  We also recommended that you keep an extra key in a safe place in case you lose your key.

Here are some tips to keep in mind when you are packing your storage unit:

  • Load larger items first and keep heavier items on the floor then stack light boxes on top.
  • Group items together based on rooms to make it easier to find items.
  • Store valuable items in the back of the storage unit.
  • Keep items that you may need to access later in the front of the storage unit.
  • With larger units you can create an isle down the middle to make items more accessible.
  • Remove the legs from dinning tables so they will store flat against the wall.
  • Stack dinning chairs on top of each other.
  • Consider storing mattress flat to prevent unevenness.
  • Cover mattresses and upholstered furniture with plastic covers to protect them from dust and pests.

To protect your items from rodents and insects do not store perishable food, pet food or anything that can spoil and that will attract any unwanted pests. Do not store kitchen appliances that have not been cleaned.

Unfortunately, we cannot control what your neighbor will store in their storage unit. To better protect your items pack using new boxes and avoid using boxes from the grocery store or any boxes that have been used for food or beverages. Better yet, invest in plastic totes with lids and cover mattresses, sofas, and chairs with plastic covers. 

Storage units can get very hot in the summer and really cold in the winter.  Items that are volatile, flammable, combustible, explosive, or poisonous, i.e., paint, batteries, tires, asbestos, chemicals, corrosives, and pollutants are prohibited from being stored in the storage unit.