South Hall Self Storage

Pre-Storage Preparations:

Make a list of all the packing supplies you will need, such as boxes, tape, wrapping paper, marking pens, Damp Rid, rope and pallets.
Visit the facility where you want to store your items. Take a list of what you are going to be storing so that the manager can help you determine the correct size for your needs.
Schedule your mover 30-45 days in advance.
Be sure to read the lease before signing it. Make sure you are aware of company policies on moving out, paying the rent and other important information.
If you are using a moving company, find out what size truck they will be using. This is valuable in determining if your unit will be accessible to that truck. Most moving companies charge more the farther they have to carry your things.

Basic Do's & Don't's

Do check your unit once a month.
Do remain aware of your surroundings when you are in your unit. If you see a potential problem or anything suspicious alert the manager.
Don't give out your password, gate code or any information to anyone that is not listed as having "Access."
Don't assume that your homeowner's or renter's insurance will cover your belongings while in storage.
Do purchase the insurance. If your belongings are worth storing, they are worth insuring.
Do keep valuable items in the rear of the unit. This will prevent others from seeing them when you are in your unit.
Do store clothing and draperies in wardrobe boxes or on hangers, so they can retain their original shapes.
Do tape items such as collectibles or breakables after wrapping them. This should avoid mistaking them for excess paper to fill the box. Use bubble wrap or unprinted paper to wrap breakables.
Don't use printed newspaper. The ink may smudge and get on your items.
Do keep out of season clothes accessible, you may have your belongings in storage longer than anticipated.
Don't store any food items. This will prevent any unwanted guests.
Do store frequently used items at the front of the unit to avoid having to search for them.
Don't pack your boxes so that they are too heavy to carry, especially when packing books.
Do store mirrors and painting on end, not flat.
Don't forget to clean appliances before you store them.
Don't store any toxins or flammables, such as paint, oil, or gasoline.

Organization Tips

Use freestanding shelves to help organize your unit. Keep boxes off the floor.
Group similar items together and mark the boxes accordingly.
Label the boxes on all six sides and keep a list for easy reference. This will save you time if you have to look for something in particular.
When packing boxes fill them without making them too heavy to lift.
Always put lighter boxes on top of heavier ones. This will prevent lighter boxes from being crushed.
Rubbermaid containers are great to store your items. They have tight fitting lids and stack easily.
When stacking furniture use paper pads in between the items to avoid scratching.
When you disassemble electronics, such as computers, stereos, things that have numerous cords, color code your appliances and their cords (place small colored stickers on the cord and the same colored sticker where the cord goes). If possible, keep the original owner's manual and use the original boxes to store your electronics and other items.

Space Savers

Utilize all the space in your unit. Make a plan as to how you are going to arrange your items. A good plan will save you the time of having to rearrange your unit.
If possible, leave an aisle in the center of your unit so that you have a walkway to the back of the unit.
Disassemble items such as tables, bed frames, etc. Wrap and label all pieces for an easier time when you have to reassemble them. Put all hardware in bags and mark the bags accordingly.
If it is possible store couches on end. Stack chairs seat to seat. Use the inside of appliances and drawers to store smaller items.

Keeping Clean

Use pallets, 2x4's or plywood in order to keep your items off the floor of the unit.
To protect your items cover them with moving pads, sheets, or light blankets.
Make sure that all appliances are clean and dry before storing them. Leave appliances slightly ajar to prevent mildew.
To prevent rusting rub a small amount of machine oil on metal tools, bicycles, and equipment. Drain and clean all debris from all equipment before you store them.