Gather as many boxes you think you will need along with packing tape, markers for labelling, and packing paper or bubble wrap.

Try to use uniformly sized boxes to make it easier to stack and organize.

Keep an inventory list of all the items you will be keeping in your storage unit and keep in in a safe place at home.

Plan how you will be organizing your storage unit. If you know you will need access to certain items often, keep them towards the front of the unit.

Try to leave an aisle down the middle of your unit for easy access to things in the back.

Tables or dressers with removable legs should be unassembled to save space.

DO NOT store anything that is flammable or combustible, i.e. paint, gasoline, solvents, etc.

Be sure to place heavier boxes on the bottom and lighter boxes on top. Make sure your boxes are sturdy enough to support stacking others on top of them.

Pictures, mirrors, glassware, and dishes should be properly wrapped and labelled "FRAGILE". Be sure not to stack heavy boxes on top of these items.

If you have furniture with drawers such as a dresser or console table, they can be used to store smaller items without the need for extra boxes.

Larger appliances make a great storage space for blankets and towels.

If you will be storing a mattress on its side, make sure it is supported and propped up so it doesn't deform or lump up.

Wipe any belongings made of metal (tools, bikes, tables, etc.) with machine oil to prevent rusting in case of moisture buildup.