Hints and Tips on storage

A few practical things to do before your belongings go into storage.

• Use strong, good quality packing crates and boxes to protect your belongings and make stacking easier.
• Do not overfill boxes or make them too heavy to lift.
• Label crates and boxes clearly so you can identify the contents.
• Wrap glass and fragile items in tissue paper and bubble wrap.
• Clean machinery and equipment before storing them.
• Use wardrobe boxes to keep clothing protected and uncreased.
• Plan the space so you can reach the items you are most likely to need.
• Cover furniture to help keep it clean and protected.
• Drain kitchen appliances before storing and leave fridge and freezer doors open where possible.
• Keep an inventory and a plan of where your items are stored.
• Do not store perishable goods beyond their recommended date or alongside non-perishable items. Remove batteries and store them separately in case they leak.
• Keep tapes, CDs and DVDs away from magnets, magnetic fields and X-rays, including equipment such as hi-fi speakers and photocopiers.