How Much Space Do I Need?

A box for everything and everything in a box.

• That is the best protection for your goods. Use uniform sizes of boxes and stack them shoulder high to maximize your total storage space.
• Pack stereos, cameras and other high value items in unmarked boxes toward the rear of the storage space.
• Prepare your storage space by placing a pallet on the floor under your goods.
• Leave an air space around the unit's perimeter to aid in the ventilation and to help prevent condensation.
• Place frequently used items near the door and leave a walkway to the rear of the space.
• Cover all your stored possessions with a light plastic sheet. In humid areas, allow for ventilation.
• Use a good quality lock on your storage space.

ALWAYS...

Wedge appliance doors open. Freezer, refrigerator, washer and dryer cartons are excellent for packing bedding, towels and clothing. Always clean your stove before storing.

Pack books flat to protect their spines. Do not place boxes directly on the floor. Books are heavy in bunches, pack in smaller cartons for easy lifting. Line all book cartons with plastic (garbage bags make good liners).

Store mirrors, windows and screens on edge, not flat. Crate them in a mirror pack if possible or package them individually with strong cardboard. Mark them so they won't accidentally be bumped.

Take time when packing dishes and glasses. Place a layer of packing paper inside the bottom and top of cartons. Plates and glasses should be wrapped individually. It is best to stack plates on edge.

Wipe the surface of bicycles, tools and other metal items with a slightly oily rag to prevent rusting.

Save holiday decoration boxes that contained delicate ornaments. Pad the ornaments with packing paper or newspaper.

Protect furniture and mattresses with specially designed plastic covers. Place a pallet or cardboard mat on the floor and stand sofas and mattresses on end.

Store records on edge. They are quite heavy, so be sure you don't pack too many in one box.

Are Your Goods Insured?

Insure your belongings while in storage. Ask the manager about self-storage insurance at reasonable rates.

If it's worth storing, it's worth protecting.

Estimating Chart

Use this chart to estimate the volume of your goods. Then match the number of cubic feet you need with the right size storage space. Copy this information into the form on the Northside page, Westend page, or the Red Deer page and submit to that office.

Estimating the size of storage space needed

Size may vary due to wall thickness and height. Most units are 10 feet in height. To arrive at the number of cubic feet in a storage space, follow the example.

Approximate size = Square feet x Height = Cubic Feet

(i.e.) 5 x 10 = 50 sq. feet x 10 (H) = 500 cubic feet

Quick rule of thumb to determine size of space needed