1. Try to use boxes that are uniform in size as they are easier to stack (remember; keep the heavy     ones on the bottom and the light ones on top).

2. Leave a small walkway between the boxes and furniture so you can easily get to the items you     want without having to move things around

3. If you’re storing a lot of packing boxes in your unit, try to fill them to the top. Boxes that are only     half-filled tend to collapse if anything’s placed on them.

4. If you’re putting any metal objects into storage – like lawnmowers or file cabinets – it’s best to     treat them with rust protector first, or at least wipe them down with an oily rag.

5. It’s wise to take a few precautions of your own against theft. Pack your storage unit so that your     most valuable items are at the back, and purchase a high quality padlock to put on the door.

6. Take out insurance. If it’s valuable enough to store, it’s valuable enough to insure.

7. The humidity in your self-storage unit can cause your furniture to warp and your appliances to     mildew. Leaving a space between your items and the unit’s wall allows for air to circulate within     the unit. Laying plastic sheeting on the floor and stacking boxes on top of wooden pallets can     prevent condensation damage.

8. Cover furniture. This will keep dust from settling on your furniture and help protect against     mildew.If you’re storing a refrigerator in your unit leave the door ajar. This will prevent mould     from growing inside.

9. Under no circumstances should you keep anything flammable or combustible in your storage     building. This means no petrol, oil, cleaning fluids or paint thinner. If you’re storing any machinery     that runs on petrol please ensure that you drain the tank. This will prevent your furniture from     smelling too