If you find that you must utilize a storage facility for overflow or if you are in between residences or offices below are some useful tips.
Plan Ahead: Rent or purchase an adequate supply of storage pads or moving blanket to protect furniture items. Instruct the movers to keep your frequently used items or things that you may readily need access to closest to the door.
Plan for an Aisle: Secure a large enough storage unit so an open aisle can be left down the middle for access front to rear.
Cover Up: Protect your upholstered furniture with stretch wrap and have your box spring and mattresses placed in protective cartons. Leather and wood furniture should never be stretched wrap as it can trap moisture (yes, even in Arizona) can cause surface damage.
Think Vertical: Make the best use of the storage area by stacking as high as you safely can. Remember movers are not allowed to use ladders due to insurance restrictions. The heaviest boxes need to be placed on the bottom of the box stacks for obvious reasons.
Optimize Space: Furniture that has removable legs, leaves or other parts should be broken down. Stack chairs seat to seat to optimize space.
Multiple Use: Use refrigerators and other appliances to store things like linens or clothing. Wedge the door of any appliance open so air can circulate inside of them.
Let it Breathe: Leave a little space between the walls of the unit and your stored items to allow for ventilation.
Tools Up: Shovels, hoes, rakes and hoses can be stored in an empty trash can.
Nest Items: When possible, stack extra empty cans, storage tubs, etc.
Clean the Air: If you are storing a gas powered mover, leaf blower, etc. prevent unpleasant odors by draining the gas tank before you place it into storage.
Be Prepared: Keep an extra emergency preparedness kit in your storage unit. If your residence is inaccessible, you’ll have a second supply resource.
Unit Sizes:
5’ X 5’ – This unit is the size of a small walk-in closet. It will hold small furniture, boxes and other small items.
5’ X 10’ – This unit is the size of a large walk-in closet. It will hold a sofa and a chair, chest of drawers or dresser, mattress set plus other small items and boxes, a limited number of outdoor furniture items, lawn and garden tools, bicycles, etc.
10’ X 10’ – This unit is approximately half the size of a one car garage. This unit will hold furniture from a one-bedroom apartment, some appliances, boxes and some small items.
10’ X 15’ & 10’ X 20’ – These units are the size of a one car garage. They will hold furniture from a two-bedroom home or apartment with appliances, boxes and miscellaneous items.
10’ X 30’ & 15’ X 30’ – These units are close to the size of a two car garage. They will hold furniture from a three bedroom home or apartment with appliances, boxes and miscellaneous items. Outdoor units of this size can be used to store a car, truck or boat.
