Consider how much space you really need. We rent units in all different sizes. It’s best to rent a smaller storage unit and pack it to the ceiling rather than pay for space you’re not using.

Try to use boxes that are uniform in size so they’re easier to stack. Remember to keep the heaviest boxes and items on the bottom and the light ones on top. Your boxes should be of sufficient strength to accomodate the weight of your stored items. NEVER put cardboard boxes directly on concrete floors.

Bryans Road Storage routinely implements effective pest control measures but it is still advisable to make stored items less invasive to mice and pests whenever practical.

Leave small walkways between the boxes and furniture in your storage unit so you can easily get to the items you want without having to move anything around or climb over stored objects.

If you’re storing a lot of packing boxes in your unit, try to fill them to the top, even if it’s just with padding or crumpled newspapers. Boxes that are only half-filled will tend to collapse in time if anything’s placed on them.

If you’re putting any metal objects into storage – like lawnmowers or file cabinets – it’s best to treat them with rust protector first, or at least wipe them down with an oily rag.

Pack your storage unit so that your most valuable items are at the back, and purchase a high quality padlock to put on the door. Bryans Road Storage offers padlocks for sale in the main office.

Leave an air space between your stored items and the unit’s outside walls to allow for air to circulate within the unit and prevent condensation damage. Laying plastic sheeting on the floor and stacking boxes on top of wooden pallets can prevent condensation damage. So can using old linens or other fabrics, instead of plastic, to protect your stuff from dust.

If you’re storing a refrigerator or wash machine in your unit leave the door ajar. This will prevent mold from growing inside.

Under no circumstances should you keep anything flammable or combustible in our storage units . This means no gasoline, oil, cleaning fluids or paint thinner. If you’re storing any machinery that runs on gas, drain the tank before you store it.

Wrap dishes and glassware individually, and pad the box with packing paper or bubblewrap. It's best to store plates on their sides. Take special care when packing mirrors, windows and screens.

Protect furniture, including mattresses and box springs, with plastic covers, and stand on end.