Skip to main content

Packing & Storage Tips

Getting Ready

to Move In?

Be sure to read through this list of Packing and Storage Tips to help save you time, keep your unit clean, safe and organized. If you have any other storage questions, don't hesitate to contact us!

Organization Tips

  • Leave an aisle in the center of your unit so that you have a walk way to the back of the unit.
  • Be sure to store frequently used items at the front of the unit to avoid having to search for them.
  • ALL personal papers and ALL personal photographs are required to be clearly labeled with both “Tenants Name and listing as Personal Papers or Personal Photographs” labeled outside any box or container.
  • Place on floor a heavy duty tarp or plastic on top of concrete, for extra layer of protection.
  • Use plastic containers with tight-fitting lids that stack easily, instead of cardboard boxes.
  • Keep out of season clothes accessible, you may have your belongings in storage longer than anticipated.
  • Do not pack your storage containers so that they are too heavy to carry them.

Storing Furniture & Appliances Efficiently

  • Place on floor a heavy duty tarp or plastic on top of concrete, for extra layer of protection.
  • Disassemble items such as tables, bed frames, etc. This will save space.  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.
  • Make sure that all appliances are clean and dry before storing them. Leave appliances slightly ajar to prevent mildew.
  • If it is possible store couches on end. Stack chairs seat to seat. Use the inside of appliances and drawers to store smaller items. When stacking furniture use paper pads in between the items to avoid scratching.
  • Store mattresses and box springs on long edges. Wrap for protection and elevate off the floor. Use two to three 2 x 4’s cut to 1 foot long.

Moving In for the First Time

  • ALL personal papers and ALL personal photographs are required to be clearly labeled with both “Tenants Name and listing as Personal Papers or Personal Photographs” labeled outside any box or container.
  • Place on floor a heavy duty tarp or plastic on top of concrete, for extra layer of protection.
  • Use plastic containers with tight-fitting lids that stack easily, instead of cardboard boxes.
  • Use pallets, 2 x 4’s, plywood, any thing that will keep your items off the floor of the unit. 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.
  • Do not store any toxins or flammables such as paint, oil, or gasoline.

How to Keeping your Belongings Safe

  • Be sure to check your unit at least once a month.
  • If you see a potential problem or anything suspicious alert the manager.
  • Do not assume that your homeowners or renters insurance will cover your belongings while in storage.
  • Purchase and maintain required insurance coverage for the full value of the personal or vehicle stored in, on or about the rental space. If your belongings are worth storing, they are worth insuring.
  • Protect your password, gate code and any other information.

Space Saving Tips

  • Use freestanding shelves to help organize your unit.
  • ALL personal papers and ALL personal photographs are required to be clearly labeled with both “Tenants Name and listing as Personal Papers or Personal Photographs” labeled outside any box or container.
  • Use plastic containers with tight-fitting lids that stack easily, instead of cardboard boxes.
  • Label containers 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 containers fill them without making them too heavy to lift.

How to keep your items protected inside the unit

  • To protect your items cover them with moving pads, sheets, or light blankets.
  • Store mirrors and paintings on end, not flat. Pack books flat to protect their spines.
  • Always put the heavier containers on the bottom and the lighter ones on top of the heavier ones. This will prevent containers from being crushed. Keep off the floor.
  • When wrapping collectibles or anything breakable, tape it after you wrap it. This should avoid mistaking them for excess paper.
  • Use bubble wrap or unprinted paper to wrap breakables. Group similar items together and mark the containers accordingly.
  • Clothing and draperies should be stored in wardrobe boxes, on hangers, to retain their original shapes.

Storing Electronics

  • When you disassemble electronics, such as computers, stereos, things that have numerous cords, place small colored stickers on the cord and the same color sticker where the cord goes.  This will save you the hassle of trying to figure out what goes where when it comes time to reassemble your electronics.  
  • If possible, use the original containers to store your electronics and other items.

Cleaning Tips

  • 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.
  • Do not use plastic to cover your belongings. It retains moisture.
  • Do not store any food items. This will prevent any unwanted guests.
  • Do not use printed newspaper for wrapping. The ink may smudge and get on your items.
  • Do not forget to clean appliances before you store them.
Contact Us

840 Marine Drive
Bellingham, WA 98225

Email: pakanutstorage@msn.com

360-671-2400

Existing Customers

Log in to your account to make a payment or set up your account for auto payment.

Login

New Customers

Signup online and select your unit at Pak-A-Nut Storage.

Signup and Reserve