Wrap it up!

Finally ready, got all the supplies and you're ready to get started packing:

• Box up everything that you can. Anything left unboxed in a self-storage facility can get dusty.
• Fill boxes to capacity. The contents in half-empty boxes can shift during transport or lifting. Corners and sides can collapse if there’s nothing to support them. Foam peanuts are handy for filling in the gaps in boxes.
• Distribute the weight in packed boxes evenly. Make sure they are not too heavy for you and others who may be lifting them.
• Wrap all fragile items and breakables such as dishes, glasses, ornaments, etc. separately. Pack these items tightly into strong or reinforced boxes, filling any gaps with paper or filler. Mark “Fragile” on any boxes containing breakable items.
• Clearly label all boxes on more than one side so you can easily identify the contents.
• Pack books flat to avoid damaging their spines.

Prepare, prepare, prepare

Collect your supplies:
Use boxes, not plastic bags. Boxes are sturdier and stack well, taking up less space. Also, plastic bags can trap humidity which can cause damaging mildew.
Invest in good quality, sturdy boxes and packing materials. Boxes should be sturdy enough to hold up for years under the weight of the stack. You may be tempted to get boxes for free from supermarkets and liquor stores; however, organizing is difficult with mismatched boxes. You can buy standard-sized boxes and specialty boxes for items such as TVs, videotapes and pictures.
For wrapping breakables, paper will do, but bubble wrap can be used repeatedly, is cleaner, and because it is transparent, makes identifying contents easier.
Most people end up needing more tape than they thought they would when packing.

Once you have all your supplies collected your job will become much easier and move forward quite a bit faster.

A Plan...kinda like a silver lining

I'm looking for a silver lining to all these clouds. I bet you are too:
Self-storage units can be a real asset. A well organized space that is easily accessible can free up necessary space in your home or office. If you're listing your home your Realtor may suggest de-cluttering to make the best impact on your prospective buyers. Whatever your reasons, even before you load up the truck, it is best to start with a plan. Large or small, here are a few simple steps to help organize your storage space:
Start with a plan:
1) Decide what items will be packed in boxes and stacked.
2) Plan which boxed items you will want to access most frequently (they’ll go closer to the front of the unit).
3) Sort by fragility or weight – heavier, sturdier items should be stored on the bottom of stacked items, fragile items on top.
4) Decide what awkward items need to be stored, including how often you will need to use them, and how heavy they are.
Once you've assessed what you'll be storing you will be more prepared to make educated decisions about your storage needs.

Next you'll learn how to take action on your plan

Weather is Changing

The weather is certainly changing. That statement can bring any number of meanings. Literally, the weather is really changing. Rain, we haven't seen rain in the forecast in months, now it's a weekly reminder that summer is over. Figuratively, Oh My Goodness, is the weather ever changing. Every day I hear news clips heralding how much our lives have changed from years past.
Over the years I've learned: this storm will pass. You and I might have to change a few things, but it will pass. It's just a season (thank goodness).
This service we offer helps out too. If you're moving or consolidating or changing or rearranging we can help. We've helped people expand, reduce or just reorganize. I'll post a couple of ways that can help with peace of mind, and maybe even save you some green-backs in the process.