Self Storage Tips

If you have any queries please do not hesitate to call us on 01227 751673, or just drop into the centre for a visit!

Before you visit

After deciding to store items in a self storage unit, use this as an opportunity to clear out unused items in your home or business. By having a proper clear out you can save yourself a good deal of time and money in the future.
Good storage begins with good safe packaging. You can cut down the cost of buying extra storage materials by using original boxes and packaging. If these are not available visit our packaging store, you can have packaging delivered directly to your home or buy on site.
We also stock wardrobe boxes especially designed for hanging clothes – this keeps them tidy and crease free.

Don’t overload boxes. Large boxes with heavy items may be too difficult to lift without causing injury.
Take time to label everything clearly – it will make accessing specific items simple when you need to take some of your possessions out.
Using packing materials that are designed for the purpose. Avoid putting loose-fill packing with appliances as it may inadvertently enter into the workings of the machinery.
Use plenty of tissue and pack out breakables such as crockery and china.
Plates should be packed upright and books laid flat.
Protect monitors, screens, scanner glass and other fragile parts with cardboard or pieces of bubble wrap or foam and tape. Mark glass parts as fragile to avoid leaning heavy objects against them.
Glass mirrors should be packed with stiffened cardboard and tape crisscrossed across the face to give extra strength.
When packing toys or smaller objects, remember to fill boxes completely, stuffing open areas with plain newspaper to prevent collapsing when stacked.
Store small items like pots and pans in large appliances, such as stoves or refrigerators.
Use protective covers and use furniture drawers to hold delicate items. Wrap them in bubble wrap or newspaper. Treat wood surfaces before storing.
When storing business files, label all boxes and construct aisles so files are easily seen and accessible.

Store your boxes in room order so things are easier to find and unpack.
Cover mattresses and store them flat on level surfaces.
Garden furniture should be turned upside down to drain off all water.
Use boards or pallets to raise equipment off the floor; some facilities offer free pallets for use in the facility.

Remove water from hoses and internal components of clothes washers, dryers, dishwashers and refrigerators to prevent freezing and mildew.
For refrigerators, clean the interior and wipe dry. Drain water from the holding tank and plastic tubing. Clean the defrost pan (usually located underneath or in the back).
Always keep refrigerators upright during transportation and storage to prevent damage to the refrigeration unit.
For transport, use strong tape to keep dishwasher, oven and refrigerator doors closed. Remove the tape once the appliance has been relocated, storing with doors ajar or removed to prevent mildew growth.
Appliances containing glass and fragile pieces, and decorative finishes can scratch and dent. Be sure to wrap them when moving blankets, bubble wrap or wrapping film to prevent broken pieces or blemishes.

Always put paper between photographs to prevent them from sticking together.
Place a piece of strong cardboard, plastic or wood between groups of loose photos and pack them tightly in boxes to prevent warping.
When placing photo albums, books or magazines in boxes, alternate by placing the spine to the right or left.
Seal photos in airtight plastic bags to prevent exposure to moisture.