Storage & Packing Tips
We offer the following resources on our website to help make your self storage process as easy as possible:
- If you will access the unit frequently and need space to maneuver, you may want to rent one size larger. See What Fits or Space Estimator on this website or contact facility manager to help determine size needed.
- Start by gathering as many boxes that you think you will need, tape, markers and packing material (i.e. foam shipping noodles, bubble wrap, packing paper or towels).
- If possible, try to use uniform size boxes for easy stacking.
- Make up an inventory of your items and keep it in a safe place at home or in a safe deposit box.
- Prepare your space by placing a protective cover on the floor under your goods.
- Plan your storage space. Place those items that you may need to access often in the front.
- CAUTION! Do not store anything COMBUSTIBLE (i.e., Paint thinner, gasoline, fireworks, solvents, paint, etc.) OR ANY FOOD OR BEVERAGE items.
- Try to leave an aisle down the center of the storage unit for easier access. Leave a small space between the walls and boxes to allow for air circulation.
- Stack heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter boxes on the top
- Be sure your boxes are strong enough to hold 25-30 pounds. Fill the boxes. Boxes that are not full may not support the weight of boxes stacked on them.
- List contents of boxes on all four sides; number the boxes and seal with tape.
- Dishes and glasses should be wrapped in paper, or bubble wrap and packed in sturdy boxes. Mark FRAGILE on all sides. Stack them on top of other boxes.
- Pictures and mirrors should be wrapped in cardboard and marked “FRAGILE” and stacked on end.
- Furniture with drawers can be utilized as storage places for pictures, knick-knacks, china, silverware, small items, etc. Wrap them in tablecloths, towels or blankets to prevent breakage.
- Larger appliances make excellent “packaging cases” for blankets, towels, tablecloths and clothes.
- Put TV's and other electronics in the rear of your unit
- Shovels, hoes, rakes and hoses can be stored together in empty trash cans. Stack extra cans inside each other.
- Tables that have removable legs should be broken down to save space.
- Sofas and love seats can be stored on end to save floor space. Cushions may be wrapped in plastic and placed on top.
- Avoid placing sharp or heavy objects on top of upholstered furniture.
- Cover stuffed furniture with cardboard or blankets to protect against dust.
- If you stand mattresses on their side, prop them up so they stand straight. They may tend to bend out of shape and become lumpy. COVER THEM WITH MATTRESS BAGS!
- Cover the very top of all items in unit with a dust cover for long term storage.
Commercial Storage & Packing Tips
- If you are storing documents, store them on a removable storage device, CD, DVD or flash drive, and store them somewhere away from the storage unit.
- If possible, pack documents in air tight containers.
- If you do not use air tight containers for sensitive items or documents, we recommend boxes go on shelves.
- Place sturdy pieces of cardboard between documents to prevent them from bending.
- Store heavier, bulkier equipment near the back of the unit.
Preparing your RV or Boat for storage
Boats: Many Coloradans take their boats out of the state’s reservoirs and lakes for storage. They’re also mentally going through the annual checklist that goes with winterizing their power systems and properly stowing away their boats. Draining and cleaning all the fluids from your boat are two important steps, other steps include removing all food and beverage items you may have onboard, clean and condition all seats and trim. Consider purchasing a moisture absorber to place in the boat. (These can be purchased at most RV and Marine Stores). Wash and dry the exterior of the boat thoroughly to remove any contaminants from the lake water. Add fuel stabilizer to your boats fuel tank to prevent the gas from fouling during the offseason. Prior to storage, ensure that all areas of the boat including under the seats and in storage areas are completely dry to avoid mildew and mold. Purchase a high quality cover for your boat and ensure that it fits correctly; this will protect the boat from damage due to sun, wind, snow, and other weather.
Winterizing tips for your RV
Unless you use your RV fulltime or live in an area where temperatures don't drop below freezing for any length of time, you need to take steps to protect your RV from the cold winter weather. This list will help you winterize your RV.
KEEP OUT THE CRITTERS
The best way to prevent rodents and other animals from causing damage is to thoroughly clean your RV prior to storage. This includes removing ALL food and beverage items from the cabinets, refrigerator and other storage areas. Also vacuum the carpets including under all furniture. Be sure to also vacuum under couch cushions and in any other place where food may have been dropped.
In many cases, it is best to remove all items from cabinets including the bathroom as rodents will also eat toothpaste, lotions and other cosmetic items.
BATTERY AND PROPANE CARE
Batteries will last longer and give you less trouble if they are maintained on a trickle charger during the offseason. When using a battery maintainer, check periodically to ensure that fluid in the batteries is at the correct level. If you choose not to use a battery maintainer, it is always best to at least disconnect the battery to prevent it from discharging in the offseason
You may leave the propane tank(s) in your rig, but be sure to turn them off.
RV COVER
If you choose not to store your RV inside a warehouse or shed for the winter, it is best to protect it with a high quality cover. Covers provide protection from the harsh winter weather and help to prevent damage from sun, wind, rain, tree sap and snow.
WINTERIZING THE PLUMBING SYSTEM
the steps below are only guidelines, it is always best to check in your owner’s manual or with your dealer to ensure you are taking the correct steps for your particular RV.
You will need to run about two gallons of RV antifreeze through the plumbing system. Be sure to use antifreeze for RVs, not cars.
Follow these steps for an easy way to winterize, and get some help, as this really is a two-person job:
- Empty and flush out the gray-water and black-water holding tanks.
- Drain the fresh-water tank.
- Drain the water heater. It will drain quicker if you open the hot-water faucet.
- Bypass the water heater because you don't need to run antifreeze in this. You can purchase a bypass kit or remove the two water lines on the back of the water heater and join them together with a temporary bypass line.
- Be sure to close all faucets.
- Disconnect the water line from your fresh-water tank at the water-pump side. You can purchase an adapter for this. Thread it onto the pump and attach the suction hose to the adapter. Place the hose into the jug of antifreeze all the way to the bottom. Turn on the water pump and then open the hot-water faucet the furthest from the pump. When you see pink antifreeze flowing, shut off that faucet and turn on the cold water until you see the antifreeze flowing out again.
- Do this with each faucet in the rig (shower, tub, lavatory, kitchen sink).
- Flush the toilet and keep the water running until pink antifreeze appears.
- Be sure to drain the outdoor faucet or shower.
- Turn off the water pump.
- Pour about ½ cup of antifreeze down each drain to be sure the p-traps do not freeze.
FINAL STEPS
- Consider placing a moisture absorber inside the RV to remove any excess moisture and prevent mildew and mold from developing.
- Ensure that all personal items that you may need during the offseason are removed (sunglasses, cell phones, camera, etc.)
- Take a final walk around both inside and outside the RV to make sure nothing has been missed.
- Close and lock all doors, windows, roof vents etc.