Blog

Planning to store your items for several months—or even longer? Packing properly for long-term storage is essential to keep your belongings safe, clean, and in good condition. At United Self Storage, we’re here to help you protect what matters most with these smart packing tips. 1. Choose Quality Packing Materials Cheap or worn-out boxes can collapse over time, especially under weight. Invest in: Sturdy, uniform boxes Plastic totes for extra moisture protection Bubble wrap and packing paper (avoid newspaper—it can leave stains) Strong packing tape to keep boxes sealed 2. Clean Everything First Before packing, clean and dry items thoroughly. Dirt or moisture left behind can lead to mold, mildew, or unpleasant odors. Wipe down furniture and appliances Wash and dry clothing and linens Polish metal items to help prevent rust 3. Disassemble Furniture When Possible Take apart bed frames, tables, and large items to save space and prevent damage. Be sure to: Label all hardware and tape it to the item Wrap furniture parts in blankets or bubble wrap Store large items vertically to maximize space 4. Pack Smart & Label Clearly Group items by room or category and label each box clearly. Pro tip: create an inventory list for easy reference! Place heavier items on the bottom Use filler (like towels or bubble wrap) to prevent shifting Avoid overfilling boxes—they should close flat 5. Protect Sensitive Items For long-term storage, take extra care with delicate or valuable items: Use climate-stable containers for electronics Cover mattresses and furniture with breathable covers Store artwork and mirrors upright and padded 6. Leave Room for Airflow Stack boxes with a little space in between, and avoid packing right up against walls. This helps reduce moisture buildup and keeps everything better ventilated. 7. Use Pallets or Shelving Keep boxes and furniture off the ground using pallets or shelving. This simple step adds an extra layer of protection against moisture or unexpected pests. Store with Confidence at United Self Storage At United Self Storage, we make long-term storage stress-free with: Clean, secure storage units 24/7 surveillance and gated access A variety of sizes to suit your needs Friendly on-site team ready to help Ready to Reserve Your Unit? Whether you’re storing belongings for a move, deployment, or simply to declutter, we’ve got your back. Contact United Self Storage today to find the perfect long-term storage solution.

When storing fragile items, proper packing and handling are essential to prevent damage. Whether you're storing delicate glassware, antiques, or electronics, taking the right precautions will keep your valuables safe. At United Storage, we offer secure storage units to protect your belongings. Follow these tips to ensure your fragile items remain in perfect condition. 1. Use Quality Packing Materials Invest in sturdy boxes, bubble wrap, packing paper, and foam padding. Avoid using old or weak boxes that might collapse under weight. 2. Wrap Each Item Individually Wrap delicate items like glassware, ceramics, and electronics separately with bubble wrap or packing paper. Secure the wrapping with tape to keep it in place. 3. Use Sturdy Boxes and Label Them Place fragile items in small to medium-sized boxes to prevent excessive weight. Clearly label each box as "FRAGILE" so you and others handle them with care. 4. Pack Boxes Strategically Place heavier items at the bottom of the box and lighter, more delicate items on top. Fill empty spaces with packing peanuts or crumpled paper to prevent shifting. 5. Stack Carefully in the Storage Unit Store fragile boxes on sturdy, flat surfaces. Avoid stacking them too high to prevent accidental falls. Consider using shelving for extra protection. 6. Keep Fragile Items Off the Floor Use pallets or shelving to keep fragile boxes elevated, protecting them from potential moisture or accidental damage. 7. Store Electronics Properly Remove batteries, secure cords, and store electronics in their original packaging if possible. If not, wrap them in anti-static bubble wrap and place them in padded boxes. 8. Avoid Overpacking Boxes Overstuffing boxes can increase the risk of breakage. Leave some space for cushioning materials to absorb shocks. 9. Check on Your Items Periodically Visit your storage unit occasionally to ensure everything remains secure and in good condition. Store with Confidence at United Storage At United Storage, we provide clean, secure, and easily accessible storage units to keep your fragile items safe. Contact us today to find the perfect storage solution for your needs!