Moving Tips
Smart ideas from the pros
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Make sure you have enough room
Think about what you’re storing and make sure you’ve selected the right sized unit. Do you think your storage needs will grow or shrink? Will you have enough room to move around inside the unit? Use our storage calculator to figure out what size unit is best for you.
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Think about climate control
Some items like electronics, antiques or heirlooms can be damaged by temperature extremes. When storing these important items, check to make sure your unit offers both air conditioning and heat.
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Decide if you need 24-hour access
You might need access to some items like sport equipment, important paperwork or recreational vehicles during the weekends, evenings or at a moment’s notice. Our 24/7 facilities offer added flexibility for people whose schedules and needs aren’t always predictable.
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Make sure you feel safe
Security is a must when making sure you and your stuff are safe. Check to make sure your storage facility is well lit, has security cameras and offers secure access. Trust your gut. Never choose a facility that doesn’t provide adequate security.
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Choose the right container
Use sturdy boxes that are new or gently used. More expensive, plastic containers offer added protection and come in clear varieties that let you see what’s inside at a glance. Morningstar Mini-Storage locations offer boxes and packing materials for purchase.
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Protect your things
Use crumpled newspapers, packing peanuts, rolled up sheets or towels to protect delicate items or to secure boxes that aren’t completely full. For upholstered or fabric items, use mattress and furniture covers and pads to help keep your items protected and clean.
-
Keep track of what you’ve stored
Clearly label each box with its contents, the room it’s for (i.e. kitchen) or theme (i.e. books). It’s always a good idea to make a list of what you’ve stored with us so you can always know what you have at home and what you’ve stored.
-
Don’t overload yourself
Don’t over pack boxes, which can make them heavy and hard to move. Store big heavy boxes on the bottom and stack lighter items on top. Always make sure your boxes are properly balanced and not stacked too high.
-
Store vertically
It’s a better use of space and it’s easier to maneuver through the space. That means storing couches on end and mattresses upright. Store mirrors and art the same way. Store big heavy boxes on the bottom and stack lighter items on top.
-
Leave yourself a path
Remember to leave a walkway in your unit so you can get to boxes and items in the back and leave room along the sides for some ventilation. Store stuff that you might need often at the front of the unit. This will make it easier to find your items without unpacking your entire unit.
-
Use equipment
Best for people storing large, unwieldy items like sofas and dressers or for those storing many small items. Hand trucks and truck rentals can make transferring things in and out of your unit easier, safer and faster.
-
Store Smart
It’s always better to clean your stuff before you store it. This helps you avoid mildew, mold and dusty odors. Be sure to clean out appliances and refrigerators and leave the doors slightly ajar. Never store food products and be sure to clean out any crumbs, these are the biggest reason for unwanted guests. Do not store flammable products like gasoline, oil or paint.
Make sure you have enough room
Think about what you’re storing and make sure you’ve selected the right sized unit. Do you think your storage needs will grow or shrink? Will you have enough room to move around inside the unit? Use our storage calculator to figure out what size unit is best for you.
Think about climate control
Some items like electronics, antiques or heirlooms can be damaged by temperature extremes. When storing these important items, check to make sure your unit offers both air conditioning and heat.
Decide if you need 24-hour access
You might need access to some items like sport equipment, important paperwork or recreational vehicles during the weekends, evenings or at a moment’s notice. Our 24/7 facilities offer added flexibility for people whose schedules and needs aren’t always predictable.
Make sure you feel safe
Security is a must when making sure you and your stuff are safe. Check to make sure your storage facility is well lit, has security cameras and offers secure access. Trust your gut. Never choose a facility that doesn’t provide adequate security.
Choose the right container
Use sturdy boxes that are new or gently used. More expensive, plastic containers offer added protection and come in clear varieties that let you see what’s inside at a glance. Morningstar Mini-Storage locations offer boxes and packing materials for purchase.
Protect your things
Use crumpled newspapers, packing peanuts, rolled up sheets or towels to protect delicate items or to secure boxes that aren’t completely full. For upholstered or fabric items, use mattress and furniture covers and pads to help keep your items protected and clean.
Keep track of what you’ve stored
Clearly label each box with its contents, the room it’s for (i.e. kitchen) or theme (i.e. books). It’s always a good idea to make a list of what you’ve stored with us so you can always know what you have at home and what you’ve stored.
Don’t overload yourself
Don’t over pack boxes, which can make them heavy and hard to move. Store big heavy boxes on the bottom and stack lighter items on top. Always make sure your boxes are properly balanced and not stacked too high.
Store vertically
It’s a better use of space and it’s easier to maneuver through the space. That means storing couches on end and mattresses upright. Store mirrors and art the same way. Store big heavy boxes on the bottom and stack lighter items on top.
Leave yourself a path
Remember to leave a walkway in your unit so you can get to boxes and items in the back and leave room along the sides for some ventilation. Store stuff that you might need often at the front of the unit. This will make it easier to find your items without unpacking your entire unit.
Use equipment
Best for people storing large, unwieldy items like sofas and dressers or for those storing many small items. Hand trucks and truck rentals can make transferring things in and out of your unit easier, safer and faster.
Store Smart
It’s always better to clean your stuff before you store it. This helps you avoid mildew, mold and dusty odors. Be sure to clean out appliances and refrigerators and leave the doors slightly ajar. Never store food products and be sure to clean out any crumbs, these are the biggest reason for unwanted guests. Do not store flammable products like gasoline, oil or paint.
