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  • SmartTip #1
    The first row is the best. Store items you'll need most often at the front of the unit.
  • SmartTip #2
    Request an aisle seat. When you pack your storage unit, create a center aisle for easy access to all your valuables.
  • SmartTip #3
    Do not place boxes directly on concrete floors, but use pallets or skids to allow air flow around and under items.
  • SmartTip #4
    If you're storing tables and other furniture, remove legs and store tabletops and sofas on end... to save space.
  • SmartTip #5
    Here's some straight talk. Old photographs tend to curl over time. To keep them flat, place them between two pieces of cardboard and tape them together.
  • SmartTip #6
    Drain gasoline and oil from lawn mowers and other items with small engines.
  • SmartTip #7
    Never store firearms, illicit drugs or drug paraphernalia, live animals, perishables, liquids, explosives, flammable liquids and fuels, toxic materials, or other items that need a controlled environment.
  • SmartTip #8
    Can it. The best place to store shovels, hoes and rakes is in the garbage can.
  • SmartTip #9
    Sleep tight. Mattresses should be covered and stored flat on level surfaces.
  • SmartTip #10
    When storing metal items wipe all metal surfaces with a rag containing a few drops of machine oil. This will help prevent rust.
  • SmartTip #11
    Pack blankets, draperies and dress clothes on the hanger in a wardrobe box.
  • SmartTip #12
    Remember to lock up. Always use high quality locks on your unit. Locks are available for sale at every SmartStop location.
  • SmartTip #14
    Stay high and dry. Always use the climate control for humidity-sensitive items.
  • SmartTip #15
    Whenever possible, place dressers and tables top-to-top to save space.
  • SmartTip #16
    Smartly seal your boxes with packing tape to prevent dust from getting into your belongings. No one likes a dusty belonging.
  • SmartTip #17
    Smartly wrap furniture legs with protective wrap, furniture covers or pads to prevent scratching.
  • SmartTip #18
    Label your boxes on all sides. Mark your delicate belongings "fragile" and store them on top of heavier unbreakable boxes.
  • SmartTip #19
    It's all about the negative space. Smartly use the empty spaces in stored furniture and appliances such as dresser drawers to store smaller items such as towels and linens.
  • SmartTip #20
    Don't overpack or underpack. Bulging cartons tip when stacked, while half full boxes tend to collapse.
  • SmartTip #21
    Books might make you smart, but large boxes of Shakespeare can be backbreaking. Instead of filling giant boxes with heavy books, mix in some lighter stuff. Like Danielle Steele.
  • SmartTip #22
    Clean and dry appliances before storing. Secure all movable parts with paper, or wrap a paper pad around each item for protection. During transport, tape all doors shut, but remember to wedge them open for storage.
  • SmartTip #23
    Avoid taking your book collection to the chiropractor. Pack books flat to protect their spines.
  • SmartTip #24
    Dreams aren't the only things that are fragile. Use a generous amount of paper to pack dishes and glassware.
  • SmartTip #25
    Know when to fold 'em. If you don't want to wrinkle your clothes, linens and draperies, don't fold 'em. Use wardrobe boxes, which allow for hanging. SmartStop sells wardrobe boxes at every location.
  • SmartTip #26
    See the light. Pack lamps and lampshades in individual boxes. Use plenty of clean paper or cloth for padding.
  • SmartTip #27
    Pad mirrors and paintings with paper. Place them in special mirror packs or large boxes; mark boxes as fragile and store with other fragile items.
  • SmartTip #28
    Print this page of SmartTips and bring it with you when you start packing.
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