Storage FAQ

What can’t I store in my storage unit?

Storing of foodstuffs is not recommended, particularly items that may leak, smell, perish or attract insects and rodents to your unit.

No dangerous or illegal substances such as fuel or chemicals to be stored.

Are all storage units the same size?

No, we have varying sizes to meet everyone’s needs.

Who keeps the key?

You do, and you can visit 24/7, as often as you like.

How often can I visit my storage unit?

You can visit your unit as often as you like, there is no limit.

Do I have to book a unit?

Yes, please call us to arrange your unit.

Storage Guide

Furniture

Cover all furniture with plastic sheeting and elevate off the floor.

Avoid stacking or leaning furniture against the outside walls.

If you stand mattresses on their side, “prop” them up so they stand straight. They may tend to bend out of shape and become lumpy.

Furniture and drawers can be utilised as storage space for knick-knacks, china, silverware, small items etc. Wrap them in tablecloths, towels or blankets to prevent breakage.

Store mirrors, windows, paintings or screens on edge, not flat. Crate them in a mirror pack if possible or package them individually with strong cardboard or bubble-wrap. Mark them so they won’t accidentally be bumped.

TABLES: Lay tables top down with the legs pointing up. To save more space, beds and tables can be dismantled. Wrap legs for protection.

CHAIRS: Stack chairs seat-to-seat.

Documents and Books

File boxes are the best way to store valuable documents.

Pack books flat to protect their spines. Do not place boxes directly on a floor. Books are heavy so pack in smaller cartons for easy lifting. Line all book cartons with plastic to prevent moisture and mould (rubbish bags make good liners).

Computers/TV’s & appliances

Computers: Like your other electrical items, need special care. The original boxes are highly recommended for packing, however bubble-wrap and good quality packing cartons will do the job. Use some packing or linen in the bottom and top of cartons. This provides extra protection for the contents and will help stop movement in transit. Most modern computers have “self-parking heads”. If you are unsure about your computer refer to the manufacturers manual, or consult your retailer.

Masking tape is a great tool for labelling the ports. Make a note of your “system data”. Back-up hard disc before storing and keep the back-up off site.

Televisions, videos and stereo equipment: Are all very delicate and sensitive and should be handled with care. Use original cartons where possible and wrap items individually in bubble-wrap. Turntables and tone arms on record players should be secured to prevent damage whilst they are being moved. Pack records on their edge to prevent warping.

BATTERIES: Remove any batteries from cassette players, radios, clocks, toys etc. Leaking batteries will cause damage.

WHITEWARE: Fridges, freezers and other white goods should be thoroughly DRY and CLEAN before storing. Whilst in storage the door should be secured slightly ajar. A deodoriser placed inside fridges or freezers is also a good idea to maintain freshness or you can wipe the inside surfaces with vanilla essence. Don’t place items inside fridges or freezers as the shelves and linings can be easily marked and damaged.

WASHING MACHINE: Drain water from washing machines and hoses. Tape hoses to the back of the machine.

STOVE: Always clean your stove before storing.

Fragile Items

Label all cartons containing FRAGILE items and avoid storing heavy items on the top of these cartons.

Take time when packing dishes and glassware. Cushion carton tops and bottoms with a layer of bubble-wrap or unprinted paper. Glass items should be wrapped individually. Nest cups and bowls, stand plates, saucers, platters, casseroles on their edge. Fill any gaps in the cartons with packing eg. scrunch paper or linen. This will keep your fragile items well protected and prevent them from moving around in the cartons whilst in transit.

Metal objects

Wipe over chrome and iron with a slightly oily rag to retard rust. Make sure all metal surfaces are dry before storing. Ensure that no sharp edges are protruding. These can rip holes in furniture.

Wrap silver in NON-ACID tissue paper or plastic bags as this can help prevent tarnishing.

Shovels, hoes, rakes and hoses can be stored together in empty rubbish cans. Stack extra cans inside one another.

Mowers & machinery

Drain fuel and oil from all machinery. This reduces the risk of leakage, spillage and damage to other goods in your space. Petrol and oil left in machinery is also a fire hazard.

Packing Guide

Labelling Cartons

Use a bold marker pen to label all cartons on all sides. Keep a list of the labelled cartons for easy reference. Packing and labelling cartons room-by-room makes the unpacking much easier. If you need to find something in storage, then you will have some idea in which carton to begin looking.

Packaging Accessories

The use of packaging accessories such as cartons, rope ties, paper, tape, bubblewrap and plastic covers will maintain and protect your goods whilst in storage. Uniform size boxes are easier to stack and will be more space-efficient.

Packing Cartons

Fill cartons to capacity. Seal all boxes carefully with tape to provide better protection for the contents. Partially full or bulging cartons may tip or collapse. Heavy items like books or tools should be packed in small cartons so they are easy to handle.

what else?

Remember to use a good quality lock on the door and to insure your goods.