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.
 

3 Tips for Moving with Kids

Moving can be a challenge for your family, and U-Store-It understands that comforting your kids is particularly important during this time. Here are a few tips that might make the transition a smoother one:

1. Keep an open dialog: Speak with your kids about what moving will be like and what they should expect. Listen carefully and address their concerns. You might be surprised what children find bothersome. For example, where will the family dog sleep in the new place?

2. Be supportive:  Kids are well-tuned to the stress of a family and moving often heightens these types of feelings. Remind them that things will settle back down following the move. Reassure them of the things that won't change: their toys, activities, etc.

3. Let your kids be part of the action: Get the children involved in the moving process, whether it's marking boxes or wrapping their toys in paper. Something to occupy their minds keeps them feeling a part of the transition.

Nothing will guarantee your child won't be upset by the move, but minimizing their anxiety over such a big change will go a long way.
 
Making a List and Checking it Twice

You probably think you know what it takes to move, but, inevitably, you will need unexpected packing accessories. It's best to get a jump start and make your packing as streamlined as possible. U-Store-It Canada has come up with a short list of "must have" items for when you start to pack. 

·      Boxes

·      Tape/tape dispenser for boxes

·      Markers to label everything

·      Brown paper or plain newspaper to protect delicate items

·      Stretch wrap to hold together items with multiple parts 

·      Inflatable bags to fill empty spaces

·      Foam peanuts to fill empty spaces

·      Blank labels to provide info about the boxes' contents, e.g., 'Fragile', 'Kitchen'

·      Box cutter to cut through tough seals and textiles.

·      Mattress covers to protect mattresses from punctures and rips

U-Store-It understands moving day can be a difficult one. If you can streamline the process, you will find it much less stressful.