While most people have no idea that there is actually a “quasi-science” to packing and storing goods so that they do not get damaged, many patrons of self-storage companies learn this the hard way – trial and error. Because we want our self-storage clients to receive the maximum benefit from our facility, we have provided some suggested tips for reducing the risk of damaging property and maximizing the convenience and capacity of self storage units.
Protecting Delicate Property: If you are storing China, figurines, or other highly breakable items these can be protected more effectively in the drawers of a bureau, dresser or desk than a box. These delicate items should be individually wrapped in bubble wrap or newspaper and labeled as fragile.
Preserving Access to Stored Items: Many people pack a storage unit along the back wall from back to front. This process is often continued moving forward until all of the space in the self-storage unit has been completely filled. While this represents an effective maximization of space for storage purposes, the process of locating property and removing it from the unit becomes virtually impossible. The simple task of obtaining an item can mean unpacking much or all of the unit. The ability to find and extract an item can be made much simpler by creating an aisle in the middle of the unit.
Preventing Collapsing Boxes: Because boxes generally will be stacked in the self storage unit, boxes located at the bottom of a column of boxes might need to bear a fair amount of weight. These boxes should contain non-breakable toys, books and similar non-fragile items with packing material filling any gaps so that the box does not collapse under the weight from other heavy items.
No Combustible Items: Household solvents, gasoline, chemicals, paint and other items that may ignite or explode should never be stored in self storage facilities. It is even a good idea not to store power tools or equipment that use gasoline or other flammable substances in a facility unless they are free of all such liquids.
Avoiding Water Damage to Furniture: Couches, recliners and similar furniture items can be stored on boards or pallets damage from water penetration during heavy rain storms.
Beware of Overpacking: When a box is stuffed with items to the point that the seams of the boxes are stressed, the box may split apart or collapse causing damage not only to items in the box but other boxes stacked on top of the box that breaks open.
Don’t Feed Varmints: Perishable food items need to be permanently sealed to prevent attracting critters and bugs who can do significant damage to the property in your storage facility.
Abstain from Using Covers That Promote Mildew: Many careful packers cover wood furniture or other items with plastic or vinyl material to protect the item only to discover that these materials cause mildew damage because they hold in moisture. While covering items to protect them from damage is a good idea, wool or cotton fabric that avoids trapping condensation and humidity is a better alternative.
If you have questions about the best way to pack your property or store in in a locker unit, we invite you to contact Browning Park Mini Storage and speak to a member of our professional management team. We can evaluate your situation and advise you about the appropriate storage unit given your needs and answer your other questions. Call us today at (501) 315-0900 or visit us at 2430 Browning Ave, Benton, AR 72015.