Supplies • Boxes • Utility knife • Packing tape • Masking tape • Permanent Marker • Clear plastic bags. Great for small stuff, pillows, cushions, etc. • Twine or sturdy cord for tying up boxes Packing • Use uniform-size boxes for easy stacking. Be sure they're strong enough to hold 25-30 lbs. but avoid putting too much in each box (never more than 40-50 lbs.) • Label all containers and boxes. • Fill containers to capacity and fill in space with packing material. • Pack heavier items in small boxes. • Secure mirrors, paintings and pictures in mirror boxes and pack them on edge. • Disassemble lamps, tables, barstools and other furnishings as applicable. Wrap pieces individually and store securely in boxes. • Wrap wooden table legs and chairs to avoid scratches. • Cover sofas with sheets so that they do not gather dust, and stack them on end. • Cover dressers with sheets or plastic wrap so you can stack boxes on top. • Fill drawers and appliances with small items to conserve space. • Pack books flat and avoid placing them directly on the unit floor (place on a pallet or sheet). • Wrap dishes and other breakables individually, layering padding at the top and bottom of the box. • Clothing is best stored clean and in hanging cartons. These may be available through the storage company or can be purchased at a moving supply store. • Make an inventory of your stored items and keep it in a safe place at home or in a safe deposit box. Storing • Place items in the order that you will need to access them---those that will be readily used should be placed in the front of the storage unit. • Before moving in pieces of large furniture, cover the ground with blankets or sheets. • Do not lean furniture against outside walls. • Place tabletops face down on the floor (remember to lay the blanket or sheet on the ground to avoid scratching). • Leave appliance doors cracked open so that moisture does not build within. • Do not store food-this will attract mice and other pests. • Arrange boxes so that the labels are facing out and easily read. • Stack boxes in a manageable manner. Put large, heavy boxes on the bottom. • Leave a walkway so that you can access your items as needed.