DO

• Have blankets, draperies, and out-of-season clothing clean and ready to be packed on a hanger or wardrobe box.
• Pack books flat, not standing on end (which may cause damage to spines). Books are extremely heavy, so don't pack too many in one box.
• Drain gasoline and oil from lawnmowers and other items with small engines.
• Old photographs tend to curl over time. To keep them flat, place them between two pieces of cardboard and tape them together.
• Don't over pack boxes. Overfilled boxes will rupture and topple when stacked.
• Heat-sensitive goods such as videotapes, albums, and photographs and wood furniture are best stored in a climate-controlled unit.
• Clean and dry your appliances. Keep refrigerator doors slightly ajar and use the space inside for additional storage.
• If you are storing tables and other furniture, remove legs and disassemble to conserve storage space.
• Use shelving to take full advantage of the storage space.
• Store couches on end (except sofa beds).
• When packing your storage room, create a center aisle for access to all items.
• Store items you'll need most at the front of the unit.
• Label all boxes on all sides.
• Store mirrors and paintings on end, do not lay them flat. Wrap and indicate they are fragile.
• Use trash cans to store shovels, rakes and hoes.
• Cover mattresses and store them flat on level surfaces.