Self Storage Tips & Safe Storage Recommendations
Self Storage Tips for an Easier Move
A little planning can make packing, moving and using your storage unit much easier. Use these practical tips to organize belongings, protect what you store and make future visits more convenient.
Start With a Simple Plan
Make an Inventory
Create a quick list of what you plan to store. Number boxes and keep a simple contents list so you can find belongings later.
Measure Large Items
Measure furniture, equipment and oversized belongings before choosing a unit, including doorway clearance.
Use Consistent Boxes
Similar-size boxes stack more easily and help you make better use of vertical space.
Label More Than One Side
Mark the room and contents on the top and at least one side so boxes remain identifiable when stacked.
Make the Space Easier to Use
Stack Carefully
Put heavier, sturdy boxes on the bottom and lighter items above them. Keep stacks stable and avoid placing weight on delicate items.
Leave an Aisle
Leave a walkway if you expect to visit often so you can reach belongings toward the back without unloading everything.
Keep Frequent Items Accessible
Put items you expect to retrieve regularly near the front or on clearly labeled shelving.
Distribute Heavy Items
Spread heavier boxes and equipment throughout the unit rather than concentrating too much weight in one stack.
Consider Climate-Controlled Storage
Elliot Kyrene offers interior climate-controlled storage options. For belongings that may be affected by temperature changes, ask our team which available storage type best fits your needs. Climate control does not replace proper packing or protective materials.
Prepare Belongings Before Storage
Furniture & Mattresses
Clean and dry furniture before storage. Disassemble removable legs or frames when practical, keep hardware labeled and protect upholstery with breathable covers.
Appliances
Empty, clean and completely dry refrigerators, freezers and cooking appliances. Drain washing machines and secure cords or removable parts before moving.
Dishes & Fragile Items
Wrap fragile pieces individually, use cushioning around the contents and fill empty spaces so items cannot shift.
Clothing & Linens
Wash and completely dry fabrics before packing. Use wardrobe boxes for hanging garments and clean containers for folded items.
Books & Documents
Use smaller boxes for books so they remain manageable. Lay books flat and consider photo-safe or acid-free materials for important documents and photographs.
Electronics & Media
Label cables, use original packaging when available and review manufacturer recommendations before storing sensitive electronics or media.
Mirrors, Art & Lamps
Protect corners, use padded picture boxes and store framed items upright. Separate lamp bases and shades and avoid stacking on shades.
Tools & Metal Items
Remove dirt, dry metal surfaces and cover sharp edges. Ask the office before storing powered equipment, batteries or items that may contain fuel.
Bicycles
Clean and dry bicycles before storage. Secure loose accessories and position bikes so they cannot fall into walkways or other items.
Holiday Decorations
Wrap delicate ornaments individually, organize decorations by holiday and keep the next season's items toward the front.
A Few Final Checks
- Make sure everything is clean and completely dry.
- Confirm your unit type and approximate dimensions.
- Review your rental agreement for prohibited or restricted items.
- Keep frequently used belongings near the front of the unit.
- Plan visits around daily 7am–7pm unit access.
Not Sure What Size You Need?
Use our storage calculator or tell us what you plan to store. We can help you compare drive-up, interior and climate-controlled options currently available.
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Compare current availability and pricing, or call our team for help choosing the right storage type and unit size.