When most people move a large amount of there possessions to a storage unit, it often ends up being a large pile of boxes and other items. Unfortunately, when they return to look for a particular item that they have stored, they have no idea where to begin looking in the huge mess. They end up wasting most of a day or even longer searching for that item. You can avoid this problem with a little bit of extra work and a bit of planning before the move. Then, finding something in your storage unit will be a breeze.

Before you take that first load of previously boxed up items to the storage facility, you need to be sure you have some idea of what is inside. It only takes a few minutes to quickly peek and get a general idea of the contents. Once you know what types of things are in the box, you should close it back up and use a permanent marker to label the outside of the box. The label should be short and easy to understand by other people besides yourself in case you are not the one retrieving things from storage. It is recommended that you label the box on the top and at least one of the sides so that it can still be read it even if it is stacked among other boxes. If you are still in the process of packing things into boxes, be sure to label them appropriately before closing them. In addition, you should be sure that the boxes are sturdy and securely closed so that the items do not end up falling everywhere when the box is moved.

Now that you have all of your boxes packed and labeled, it will be simpler to find things in your storage unit. However, to make it even easier, you should arrange the boxes and other items in an orderly fashion. Those boxes that you think you will need to access should be placed closer to the door and on top of the ones that you will not be likely to open anytime soon. Also, instead of packing the room from wall to wall, it is a good idea to leave a path between the rows of stacked boxes so that you can more easily see the labels on every box in the room. This will come in handy in case you do need to get something from one of the boxes that you were not planning to open for a long time.

The qualified professionals at American Self Storage know that moving things in and out of storage is not an easy task. They will do everything they can to make your move the best possible experience by going the extra mile for you!

Always Use Professional Boxes and Packing Supplies:

Proper packing is very important. You want boxes and packing materials specially made to do the job right. Careful attention to your personal items now will definitely pay off later when your belongings come out of the moving truck in the same condition that they went in. You won't regret making the right choice on your moving supplies and boxes. American Self Storage moving boxes are designed with this purpose in mind: to take care of your goods and let you move them safely, economically and conveniently. American Self Storage sells boxes that are specifically sized to make stacking in your storage space easier.

Moving Box Kits:

With our Moving Kits we've made it easy to order everything you need in one convenient package. Our moving kits come complete with Boxes, Tape, Cushioning Material, Cutter and even Markers! Choose from three different types of moving kits. Try our moving kits for your next move!

Packing & Storing Tips:

1. Make a list of the packing supplies that you may need to help with your move. For example: paper, bubble-pack, tape, rope, storage boxes, mattress and furniture covers, pallets, and skids.
2. Heavy items like books should be packed in small boxes and stored at the bottom of your space. Pack books flat to protect the spines and pack in small boxes with weight not exceeding 20 lbs.
3. Clean all blankets, draperies and clothing before hanging them in a wardrobe box for storage.
4. Protect your fragile items and dishes by wrapping them up in bubble wrap and store all light items near the top. Keep dish pack boxes under 30 lbs. for easy lifting.
5. Large paintings or framed pictures should be stored in specially designed art/mirror boxes.
6. Cover mattresses with mattress bags to keep them clean during moving and storage.
7. Label your boxes and keep a list. Being organized will save you time when you need to locate certain items later.
8. Place pallets on concrete floors before placing your belongings in storage for proper ventilation. Also, leave a walkway to the back of the storage space for easy access.
9. Pack items you know you will need (sheets, towels, toiletries, tissues and a change of clothes) in your clothes hamper on moving day and you will know just where to find them.
10. Pack audio-video equipment in their original boxes. Label cables and tighten transit screws. If removing screws, tape them to the objects they are removed from.
11. The following items should never be packed: combustibles, flammables or corrosive liquids.
12. Place items you may need most frequently near the front of the storage unit.

We have a variety of sizes from 6x7 to 15x19 and RV/Boat storage is available at participating facilities, some include covered vehicle parking with dump and wash stations. Most facilities sell high quality but low cost boxes and moving supplies.

We offering the following types of storage:

• Self Storage
• Boat Storage
• RV Storage
• Equipment Storage
• Indoor Storage

Tips for Storing (PDF) Size Guides (PDF) Inventory List (PDF)