Frequently Asked
Questions

Packing & Storage
Tips

General Principles

  • Rent the smallest amount of space you will need and pack the unit full.
  • Gather as many boxes that you think you will need, tape, markers, and packing material, like foam shipping noodles, Bubble Wrap, clean packing paper, or towels.
  • If possible, try to use uniformly sized boxes for easy storage and stable stacking inside your unit.
  • Make up an inventory of your items and keep it in a safe place at home or in a safe deposit box away from your unit. Consider photographing or video recording the contents of your unit, too.
  • Prepare your space by placing a protective cover or pallet on the floor of your rental unit and under your goods to guard against dampness. 
  • Plan your storage space. Place items you need to access often in the front of your unit and items you know you will not need in the back.
  • CAUTION! Do not store anything combustible, including paint thinner, gasoline, solvents, or paint.
  • For convenient access inside your unit, leave an aisle down the center and a small space between the walls and your storage boxes or items – this provides good air circulation.
  • Stack heavier boxes toward the bottom and lighter boxes on top.
  • Be sure your boxes are strong enough to hold 25 to 30 pounds, and err on the side of less for packing your boxes.
  • List the contents of your box on all four sides, and number your boxes for inventory. Then, seal each with tape.
A customer packing boxes into a car to store at Red Dot Storage in Boulder, Colorado
A couple packing their car near Red Dot Storage in Boulder, Colorado

Item Specifics

  • Dishes and glasses should be wrapped in paper and packed in sturdy boxes or in a specialized dish-pack system. Store these boxes on top to avoid damage due to heavier weight crushing the contents.
  • Pictures and mirrors should be wrapped in cardboard or packed in picture/mirror boxes and marked "FRAGILE." Stack them on end and not flat.
  • Furniture with drawers can be utilized as storage places for pictures, knick-knacks, china, silverware, and small items. Before placing items in drawers, wrap them in tablecloths, towels, or blankets to protect them and prevent breakage.
  • Larger appliances such as refrigerators and stoves should be thoroughly cleaned and the door(s) left slightly ajar.
  • Place TVs and other electronics in the rear of your unit.
  • Shovels, hoes, rakes, and hoses can be stored together in empty trash cans. Stack extra cans inside one another.
  • Tables that have removable legs should be broken down to save space.
  • Sofas and loveseats with flat sides can be stored on end to save floor space. Wrap cushions in plastic and place on top of sofas.
  • Avoid placing sharp or heavy objects on top of upholstered furniture.
  • Cover stuffed furniture with blankets or use plastic furniture covers to protect against dust.
  • If you stand mattresses on their side, prop them up so they stand straight. 
  • Wipe any items made of metal like bikes, metal tables, and tools with machine oil to prevent rusting.

This Is Worry-Free Self Storage