HINTS TO SAVE YOU TIME AND MONEY - Fill cartons to capacity - partially full or cartons bulging may fall over or collapse while in storage. Heavy items like books or tools should be packed in small cartons so they are easy to handle. Pack books flat, not on their spines. We all know moving is a huge job so make it easy by packing and labelling cartons rooms by room - this makes unpacking much easier, and if you need to find something which is in storage you will be able to find it much quicker. DO NOT STORE any goods which are illegal, stolen, inflammable, explosive, environmentally harmful, hazardous, perishable or that are at risk to the property of any other person eg. chlorine, acid, paint or petrol. 

PLANNING YOUR NEW STORAGE SPACE - Generally, place large items that you can stack upon at the end of the storage unit. Then work forwards and upwards with lighter, fragile items. Place those items that you may need to access often in the front of the unit.

STORING WHITE GOODS - Fridges, freezers and other white good items should be thoroughly cleaned and dried before storing. In storage the door should be secured slightly ajar to avoid mould.

STORING FURNITURE - Empty the contents of wardrobes, drawers and cupboards (remember to clean out any food to avoid attracting pests). Clothing and personal goods should be packed in strong secure cartons with some naphthalene or mothballs to maintain their condition. If possible remove the legs from furniture eg. bed bases, tables etc. This can help avoid damage and save space in your storage unit.

FRAGILE ITEMS - DISHES, GLASSWARE, MIRRORS, WINDOWS & PAINTINGS - Protect fragile items by wrapping them individually in packing paper (newsprint can be very messy). Nest cups and bowls, stand plates, saucers, platters, casseroles on their edges. Fill any gaps in the cartons with packing eg scrunched paper or linen. Avoid storing heavy items on the top of these cartons. Mirrors, Windows and Paintings: These items should be protected by packing material eg bubble-wrap, or in a flat-pack carton. Store them standing on their edges in an upright position (not lying flat).

METAL ITEMS - Wrapping silver in non-acid tissue paper or plastic can help reduce tarnishing. Special tip - wipe chrome or cast iron with a little machine oil to help retard rust.

BATTERY OPERATED APPLIANCES & TOYS - Remove the batteries to avoid damage from leaking batteries during storage.

COMPUTERS, STEREOS, TELEVISIONS AND VIDEOS - You need to give these items special care. Any original boxes are highly recommended for packing. This provides extra protection to the contents, especially for computers.